Hair loss in women – causes and care in Munich

Every hair goes through a cycle: a long growth phase, a short transition phase and a resting phase, at the end of which it falls out and a new one grows. Losing a few hairs every day is therefore normal. We speak of hair loss when markedly more hairs fall out than grow back or the hair becomes visibly thinner. Two forms are particularly important in women: diffuse hair loss, in which many hairs move into the resting phase at the same time – often a few months after a trigger – and hormonal hereditary hair loss, in which the hair gradually becomes thinner, mainly at the parting. There are also forms such as alopecia areata (patchy hair loss), an autoimmune condition that belongs in the hands of a dermatologist.

Hormones help to control the hair cycle. Oestrogens lengthen the growth phase – which is why hair is often fuller during pregnancy and falls out more after childbirth. When the oestrogen level falls during the menopause or after stopping the pill, male hormones (androgens) can have a stronger effect. With a corresponding predisposition, the hair roots on the top of the head then become smaller and the hair thinner. An excess of androgens, for example in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), can additionally lead to blemished skin, cycle disorders and increased hair growth on the face. As a gynaecology practice with a focus on hormones, we look at the hormonal balance as a whole; among other things, Prof. Schulte-Uebbing has published on progesterone deficiency and oestrogen dominance.

The thyroid influences metabolism, energy and also hair growth. Both an underactive and an overactive thyroid can trigger diffuse hair loss, often together with tiredness, dry skin, feeling cold or weight changes. In women, an underactive thyroid can be caused by Hashimoto's, an autoimmune inflammation of the thyroid. Prof. Schulte-Uebbing has worked on Hashimoto's disease for many years and has published numerous articles on it. For hair loss, we therefore determine thyroid values and thyroid antibodies where needed. If a condition is found, we treat it. Whether and how quickly the hair recovers afterwards is individual; it usually takes several months.

The cells of the hair root divide very quickly and therefore react sensitively to a deficiency. In women, iron deficiency is particularly significant, for example because of heavy periods, pregnancies or a diet low in meat. Empty iron stores can promote hair loss long before anaemia occurs. Vitamin D, zinc, biotin, protein and amino acids also play a role in hair growth; strict diets can trigger diffuse hair loss. Where needed, we determine the appropriate values. We correct a proven deficiency in a targeted way – not with a scattergun approach, because too much of some substances can also do harm.

In mesotherapy, small amounts of selected active ingredients are introduced into the scalp with very fine needles. The method is based on the idea of supplying the hair roots directly on site. In PRP, platelet-rich plasma, blood is drawn and processed so that the platelets, with their growth factors, are concentrated. This plasma is injected into the scalp; the aim is to strengthen the hair roots and support natural hair growth. Both procedures are applied in several sessions. Their effectiveness has not been scientifically proven for every form of hair loss. We use them as a complement, once the cause has been investigated, and discuss openly what you can expect.