Alopecia is the most common type of hair loss in women. Androgenetic alopecia, also known as female pattern alopecia or baldness, or also called alopecia areata. Typically, it is seen as hair thinning mostly on the top and sides of the head. It affects one-third of all susceptible women, and is most commonly seen after menopause. However, this does not always hold true as it can begin in puberty or in some cases, younger. The average female will lose 100-125 hairs per day. The hairs are replaced and the cycle continues. True hair loss occurs when more than the average 125 hair are shed daily. Hair loss can come from either parents side of the family.

There are two types of alopecia and to avoid getting too technical, one is due to internally administered medications (chemotherapy) and the other due to an increased number of hair follicles entering the resting stage.

Some possible causes would include: surgery, illness, anemia, rapid weight loss, these are all physical stresses. Emotional stresses would include mental illness or death of a loved one. Thyroid abnormalities can cause hair loss and thinning hair. Medications such as high doses of Vitamin A, blood pressure and gout medications will promote hair loss. And, finally, hormonal causes which would include pregnancy, birth control pills and menopause.

Hair loss can occur to improper dieting. Rapid, significant weight loss can be a catalyst for hair loss. A diet too high in vitamin A can magnify hair loss. At Fantasia, our hair replacement specialist will ask about your diet and now you understand why.

Physical and emotional stress are huge factors in hair loss. The body simply shuts down production of hair during periods of stress sinces it’s not necessary for survival. Instead, the body devotes its energies toward repairing the vital body structures. There can be a three month delay between the stressor and the onset of hair loss. And, there may be a three month delay prior to the return of noticeable hair regrowth. Which means, the loss and regrowth cycle can last 6 months or longer. Some health conditions contribute to hair loss such as anemia, low blood count and thyroid abnormalities.

Hormonal changes are probably the most common cause of female hair loss. Unfortunately, many women don’t realize that hair loss can occur after pregnancy or following the discontinuation of birth control pills. Again, the 6 month cycle would apply.

Fantasia salon has many clients with alopecia, both young and old and all ages in between. The most common hair replacement system for these clients is a wig. Since we have many active, younger clients, Cyberhair is a very popular choice. Cyberhair and Amy’s Presence hair replacements allow the wearer live life to the fullest. You can swim and sleep in Cyberhair! Another popular choice for those with alopecia would be human hair wigs. Since the hair loss is usually not a temporary situation (unlike hair loss from chemotherapy) and they will be wearing the wig indefinitely, it makes sense to spend the money for the finest human hair wigs available. Sometimes choices are determines by what one does for a career. There are many factors which will determine the best choice of hair replacement for an individual. The professionals at Fantasia are trained to guide you in the best choice for you!

Fantasia has a full inventory of wigs, from low end synthetics to the high end European human hair. Call today for a free consultation.