There are different types of alopecia that affect both men and women. However, when classifying them, gender must be considered, since in both cases the manifestations and causes are different.
In women, hormonal fluctuations have a lot to do with it. Phases such as pregnancy, postpartum, menopause, among others, can be accompanied by an abnormal loss of hair strands. How to deal with this problem?
The main types of alopecia in women
Alopecia in women usually manifests itself in the thinning of the hair strands and their subsequent loss. Often there is a decrease in hair volume in the visible areas of the scalp, such as the top and front. However, unlike in men, excessive hair loss does not usually progress to baldness.
In this particular case, decreased estrogen, increased androgen, stress episodes, nutritional deficiencies, anemia, among others, tend to cause this condition. However, according to its cause and manifestations, it is classified into different types. We see.
alopecia areata
One of the most common types of alopecia in women is areata. In this case, hair loss gives rise to oval patches on different areas of the scalp. They can appear in a few days or months. Sometimes it disappears and reappears in a future relapse. While its exact cause is not defined, it is related to the following:
- Genetics.
- Autoimmune diseases (such as diabetes, arthritis or celiac disease).
- states of stress.
- Environmental factors.
Treatments may vary based on individual factors. Anyway, corticosteroids, minoxidil, anthralin, diphenylcyclopropenone, among other drugs.
androgenic alopecia
Androgenetic alopecia is the most common type of alopecia in women (affecting up to 50%). It manifests itself with thinning and lightening of the hair strands. Over time there is significant loss of hair volume, particularly in the upper centerline, crown and sides. Likewise, the hair loses strength and shine.
Its origin is mainly explained by a genetic component, but it can also be hormonal. The increase of androgen levels and decreased estrogen affects the stimulation of hair follicles, which decreases hair production and regrowth.
Its treatment includes options such as capillary mesotherapy, consumption of oral medications and hair transplantation. The choice of one or the other should be made by the dermatology practitioner.
frontal fibrosing alopecia
It is one of the types of alopecia that occurs more frequently in women than in men. It occurs due to gradual hair loss from the frontal area of ​​the head.. That is, the hair grows further and further from the forehead line.
For now the hair health experts they were unable to determine its exact cause. However, one of the hypotheses associates it with hormonal changes that occur during menopause. However, investigations are ongoing.
Its rarity has made it difficult to develop a specific treatment. Even so, specialized centers such as the Istituto Medico Dermatologico (IMD) study the disease and try to provide solutions to affected women. Today, several therapeutic options are being tested.
What is there to remember about the different types of alopecia in women?
Excessive hair loss in women can be due to several causes. Based on this, it is possible to determine one type of alopecia or another. In any case, it is essential to consult a dermatologist specialized in trichology to obtain a professional evaluation and individualized treatment.
The post What types of alopecia affect women the most? first appeared on research-school