Women Make Up Growing Number of Hair Loss Sufferers

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Friday, November 05, 2010

GoLocalProv Health Team

Though more often associated as a male-oriented condition, studies show that women are, more than ever, seeking treatment for hair loss. The American Academy of Dermatology estimates that more than 30 million women nationwide suffer from androgenetic alopecia–and the number is growing. In fact, studies show that 40% of hair loss sufferers are women.

Profound Impact

“Of course we see a lot of men, but it’s more socially acceptable with them, it’s practically common,” said Jodi Hurwitz of Hair Club in Warwick. “With women it’s a lot more devastating to lose their hair; our hair is what society says is a part of our femininity.” Low self-esteem, depression and insecurity are common psychological side affects of female hair loss, and causes can range from genetics, hormones, stress and aging, to side affects of medication. In fact, the Pantene Beautiful Lengths campaign, which encourages women and men to grow, cut, and donate their locks to make real hair wigs for women who have lost their hair due to cancer treatments, noted a recent study revealed that nearly 60% of women consider hair loss the most dreaded side effect they face when undergoing chemotherapy. “We like to help women get their life back,” said Hurwitz, noting that the center changed its name by dropping “for men” to make their growing female clientele more comfortable.

Dr. Jon W. Gaffney, a board-certified plastic surgeon and the medical director for Hair Club says that many women have hair that thins globally or suffer from fraction alopecia, making female patterned bald “more dubious” to handle. Transplant and treatment options depend on each condition’s cause and topical Minoxidil, he said is the primary agent used and is the only currently FDA-approved agent for female pattern hair loss.

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