10 Major Types Of Alopecia In Females: Hair Loss Patterns In Women

The medical word for hair loss, alopecia, refers to various conditions that might impact men and women differently. It affects 147 million people worldwide. The most prevalent hair loss, known as androgenetic alopecia or female pattern hair loss, is characterised by a generalised hair thinning over the frontal scalp areas and crown. In most cases, hair falls out in small patches about the size of a quarter. Although there may only be a few patches, alopecia can affect more expansive areas of the scalp. Alopecia can affect anyone, irrespective of your age, gender, or race, although most cases develop before the age of 30.

Hair loss occurs gradually due to this disorder, which frequently has a genetic predisposition and hormonal influence. Another kind, alopecia areata, is thought to result from an autoimmune reaction resulting in unpredictable hair loss and, occasionally, other body areas. Telogen effluvium is less prevalent but noteworthy; it is characterised by abrupt, transient hair loss brought on by severe stress, disease, or hormonal fluctuations.

The diagnosis and treatment of each kind of female alopecia have distinct issues that impact both the patient's physical appearance and emotional well-being. Comprehending these variances is essential for customised care and assistance for females experiencing hair loss. Read ahead to learn about various types of alopecia in females.

Table Of Contents

1. What Are The Types Of Alopecia In Women?

2. How Does Androgenic Alopecia In Females Affect Them?

3. Dietitian’s Recommendation

4. The Final Say

5. FAQs

6. References

What Are The Types Of Alopecia In Women?

There are different types of alopecia and different medical conditions that cause hair loss. Here are some common types of alopecia in females-
 

1. Alopecia Areata

Alopecia areata is an autoimmune disease that may cause hair loss, typically in the form of round or oval patches on the scalp or other areas of the body where hair develops, including the lashes, eyebrows, or beard. Patchy alopecia areata, diffuse alopecia areata, alopecia totalis, alopecia universalis, alopecia barbae, and alopecia ophiasis are among the different types of alopecia areata.
 

2. Androgenetic Alopecia (Patterned Hair Loss)

Female pattern hair loss is quite prominent. In men, hair falls out in a well-defined pattern, while in women, the hair usually thins all over the head rather than receding from the temples.
 

3. Central Centrifugal Scarring Alopecia (Scarred Alopecia)

Primary scarring alopecias are a set of disorders that cause permanent hair loss by hampering the hair follicle and replacing it with a scar. They are sometimes referred to as scarring alopecia or scarring hair loss. In central centripetal cicatricial alopecia, hair loss begins in the centre of the scalp and slowly spreads outward.
 

4. Chemotherapy Induced Alopecia (Anagen Effluvium)

Chemotherapy-induced alopecia (CIA) is a condition where hair falls out after chemotherapy. It is one of the most visibly troubling side effects of commonly administered chemotherapy drugs.
 

5. Frontal Fibrous Alopecia (Scarred Alopecia)

In frontal fibrosing alopecia (FFA), the hair follicle is damaged and replaced by scar tissue, resulting in scarring alopecia. In frontal fibrous alopecia, hair falls out across the front of the scalp. Eyebrows can also be affected by hair loss.
 

6. Lichen Planopilaris (Scarred Alopecia)

Primary scarring alopecia (alopecia areata or scarring hair loss) is a group of conditions that destroy the hair follicle, replace it with a scar, and cause permanent hair loss. In Lichen Planopilaris, spots appear on the scalp, most often on the sides, front and back of the scalp.
 

7. Telogen Effluvium

With Telogen Effluvium, more hair than usual moves into the telogen (resting) phase and falls out, so you may notice more hair shedding than usual. A physical or psychological trigger often causes Telogen Effluvium and usually resolves spontaneously on its own.
 

8. Traction Alopecia (Hair Loss)

Traction alopecia is a condition in which hair falls out because it has been pulled in the same way for a long time. Tight hairstyles, relaxers, or extensions often cause this condition.
 

9. Trichotillomania (Hair Pulling)

Trichotillomania is a psychological condition in which one can't stop pulling out one's hair, which leads to hair loss. The most common places people pull hair from are the scalp, eyebrows, and eyelashes.
 

10. Postpartum Alopecia

A rapid and significant drop in estrogen levels after childbirth can result in a condition known as postpartum alopecia. However, doctors do not consider this to be typical hair loss. Instead, postpartum alopecia is hair loss following increased hair growth that can occur during pregnancy. Regular hair growth usually resumes within a few months.

Also Read- What Is Male Pattern Baldness? Prevention Tips And Possible Treatments

How Does Androgenic Alopecia In Females Affect Them?

Conditions characterised by hair loss are collectively referred to as alopecia. It is not contagious, although it can sometimes be a symptom of other health problems. An autoimmune disease is one of the most common types of alopecia. However, not all types are related to an abnormal immune system response.

Hair loss often affects women more than men because it is socially less acceptable for them. Alopecia can seriously affect a woman's emotional well-being and quality of life.

The primary type of hair loss in women is the same as in men. This is called androgenic alopecia or female (or male) hair loss. Men typically experience hair loss above the temples, which eventually recede to form the distinctive "M" shape. The hair on top of the head gradually thins and frequently becomes bald. In women, androgenetic alopecia gradually starts with thinning on the part line, followed by increasing diffuse hair loss radiating from the scalp. A woman's hairline rarely recedes, and women seldom go bald.

Women's hair loss may be caused by multiple factors, such as illnesses, drugs, and psychological or physical stress. If you experience unusual hair loss, seeing your primary care provider or dermatologist is essential to determine the cause and appropriate treatment. You can also ask a health professional for a referral to a therapist or support group. 

Significant hair loss is less common in women than in men, but women experience several types of alopecia, including-

• alopecia areata
• androgenetic alopecia
• postpartum alopecia
• traction alopecia

Also Read- 6 Types Of Hair Loss In Men And Women

Dietitian's Recommendation

The majority of alopecia types occur suddenly and advance at a variable pace. Sometimes, hair growth comes back on its own. You can choose ToneOp Care’s black seed oil capsules to give your hair a chance to grow back naturally. However, treatment is often needed to try to restore healthy hair growth. If you come across hair loss anywhere on your body, see a dermatologist soon to discuss your options.

                                                                             Dt. Lavina Chauhan
 

The Final Say

Alopecia is a hair problem that can be treated with home remedies. You should also change your diet and remember some important things. If someone is suffering from alopecia, you can help them by telling them about these home remedies. Although some over-the-counter medications for alopecia are available, it would be better to use them only after consulting a good trichologist.