Hair loss is a frustrating, yet unfortunately common struggle that many people face – even women. There are many triggers that can cause thinning hair and hair loss, and these range from genetic factors and medical conditions to causes like stress, hormones or sleep deprivation.
“As women age, hair will begin to gradually thin,” Dr. Jill Waibel of Miami Dermatology & Laser Institute once explained to SheFinds. “If a woman will have hair loss difficulties, it becomes apparent in her 20s or 30s. On an average day, it is very common for a woman to lose up to 100 hairs on their scalp. When a women is losing up to 300 hairs on any given day, this is what we would consider as abnormal. At that rate, I would advise following up with a board-certified dermatologist to discuss treatment options and diagnosis of hair loss.”
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If you find that you are losing more hair than the expected amount, there are plenty of home hair growth treatments you can try to strengthen hair follicles and even promote new hair growth. Biotin or collagen supplements are the easiest remedies you can bring into your routine with minimal treatment, though they only strengthen hair and have not been proven to promote new hair growth.
Dr. Christine Shaver of Bernstein Medical in New York City told SheFinds that the most effective over-the-counter product for hair growth is a men’s 5% minoxidil solution
Minoxidil is clinically proven to effectively help hair growth when used on the top of the scalp, up to two times a day. It has been found to promote the growth of new hair in about four months. However, this treatment can have its side effects, so you must be careful when using it regularly.
The most common side effects found from minoxidil are skin irritation at the scalp and dandruff. Minoxidil is a chemical and all skincare or haircare chemicals can cause irritation in people, as everyone reacts differently to products.
The best thing you can do to avoid experiencing harmful side effects from minoxidil or a similar hair growth treatment is to test a small amount on your skin before using it. Try an area that is commonly less sensitive than others, like the top of your hand or arm.
