Q: Why is hair loss in women difficult to diagnosis?

A: The majority of hair loss in women is diffuse. This means that the hair thins all over the scalp, rather than on the front and top characteristic of balding in men.

Diffuse hair loss can be caused by a number of things besides genetics; including medical problems such as anemia, thyroid disease, and polycystic ovaries; and medications such as birth control pills, blood pressure pills, seizure medications and blood thinners. Stress and pregnancy can also cause this type of diffuse hair loss.

The hallmark of genetic female pattern hair loss is miniaturization (change in hair shaft diameter).

Hair shedding is characteristic of many of the other conditions, but is less commonly seen in genetic hair loss.

For a complete discussion on hair loss in women, visit the pages for the diagnosis, causes, and classification of female hair loss. Or view photos of our female hair restoration patients for examples of Dr. Bernstein’s work on restoring hairlines, hair at the temples, and eyebrows.

Also, a reminder, Bernstein Medical – Center for Hair Restoration will be holding a Women’s Hair Loss Open House at our facility in Midtown Manhattan, New York City on Wednesday, August 12th, 2009 (4-6pm). You can register to attend the open house by following this link. We look forward to seeing you there!