Issue link: http://cp.revolio.com/i/244291
What's causing hair loss? One of the most common types of hair loss is a geneticallyinfluenced condition called androgenetic alopecia, better known as male-patterned baldness. "Women can have the same condition, but the baldness is typically less dramatic than in men," says Dr. Stephen Ho, a dermatologist with About Skin Dermatology in Englewood. Androgen hormones affect the hair follicles, causing loss. Hormonal shifts that occur around menopause can increase the risk of the condition for anyone who's genetically predisposed. "Many women will show signs of this as early as age 40, but by age 65, 50 percent or more of women will have some degree of androgenetic hair loss." A second common type of hair loss (telogen effluvium) shows up as more diffuse hair loss, and often seems to happen overnight. There are many causes—including hormonal imbalances, psychological stress, crash dieting, thyroid disease, high fever, major surgery and certain medications. "The time interval between the inciting event and the obvious hair loss can be one to six months," Ho says. So if women suddenly find hair falling out by the handful, they should think back to what's happened in the past few months for clues. What can help? A wig or a hat isn't the only solution for coping with thinning hair. In fact, there are several treatment options that can help in regaining a fuller, more youthful mane. "For telogen effluvium, correcting any reversible cause is the main goal of therapy," says Ho. Hair loss with a genetic cause can't really be "cured," but there are things that can help. "If your doctor suspects hormones are contributing to the problem, birth control pills or an anti-androgen drug like spironolactone may help," says Ho. Topical minoxidil (such as Rogaine) and low-level laser light therapy have also both been proven effective. The bottom line for women suffering hair loss is that they shouldn't hide; see their doctor, who might have solutions. Styling secrets can help "Even if your hair is thinner than it used to be, you can make the most of what you have by using the right tools and techniques," says Lisa Holste, owner of Posh The Salon in Denver. Here are her best tips for pumping up your volume: •Use conditioner first and then shampoo to prevent hair from looking limp. •Use dry shampoo—on the days you don't wash—to help absorb oil and add volume. •Go shoulder-length or shorter and add a few strategic layers to make hair appear fuller. •Add hair extensions at the temples or wherever hair is thinnest to add thickness that will last a few months. Health & Wellness Magazine • 67