The problem of receding hairlines does not only affect men. A receding hairline and the formation of a high forehead can also affect women and even young girls. Hair loss in women often originates from hormonal imbalances, which should be diagnosed and properly treated. It is important to first begin treatment with a dermatologist who also has knowledge in the field of trichology.
Hormonal issues as a cause of hair loss in women
Hair loss is most often visible in the form of a receding hairline in men, as they usually have short hair. In women, this issue can be hidden under longer hair or bangs. Receding hairlines in women can appear even at a very young age and gradually worsen, sometimes due to their physiology. Hair shedding is a natural process in the body, with around 100 hairs lost daily. This is completely normal. However, if you notice excessive shedding during washing or brushing, you should see a specialist.
Read more: Receding hairlines in men – causes and treatment perspectives
It is worth investigating the cause of the problem, as hair loss is often a warning signal sent by the body. One of the main causes is hormonal imbalance, such as hypothyroidism or menopause. Women are also often affected by androgenetic alopecia, which is caused by follicle sensitivity to testosterone derivatives. This hypersensitivity leads to gradual miniaturization of follicles and hair thinning. In certain conditions, such as frontal fibrosing alopecia (FFA), the hairline recedes at the temples and forehead. Learn more about the role of hormones in female hair loss here.
Other causes of receding hairlines in women
Thinning hair at the front of the head may lead to the development of a receding hairline. The hairline moves back, and a high forehead often becomes an embarrassing issue for women. The most common cause is hair weakening due to frequent use of hairspray and hair coloring. Heat styling, blow-drying, and straightening can also weaken the hair. Certain hairstyles, especially tight updos, contribute as well.
Such hairstyles strain the scalp and accelerate hair loss. Another important factor is stress, which weakens the body and immune system. Poor diet and vitamin/mineral deficiencies can also play a role. Some medications, such as steroids, antibiotics, and cancer treatments, may increase hair loss. A significant number of cases also have genetic roots.
Home remedies for receding hairlines in women
One proven method is wearing looser hairstyles that do not strain the scalp. With the right hairstyle, women can conceal a receding hairline and thinning hair. Specialists recommend castor oil, which can be added to conditioners and shampoos to strengthen hair and prevent further loss. Vitamin-rich shampoos, natural conditioners, and oils also help improve hair health.
A vitamin-rich diet strengthens the body and supports proper scalp circulation. The right hairbrush is also important, as bristles that are too hard may irritate the scalp. Keep in mind, however, that these are not causal treatments.
Hairstyles for women with receding hairlines
Women with a receding hairline can try several hairstyles to help camouflage the issue:
- Side bun – hair gathered to the side with soft waves can effectively cover the receding hairline.
- Bangs – long straight bangs or side-parted bangs can hide the problem area.
- Bun – a high bun at the back of the head draws attention away from the hairline.
- Bob cut – shorter styles like classic or asymmetrical bobs can help disguise thinning.
- Braid – a low, loose braid can cover problem areas.
- Natural waves – long, wavy hair can camouflage the hairline, especially when loosely tied back.
- Layered cut – varied hair lengths around the face help conceal the receding line.
Each hairstyle may work differently depending on hair type and face shape, so consulting a hairstylist is recommended. Read more: Hairstyles for receding hairlines – for women and men.
Surgical treatment of receding hairlines in women
The first step in treating the condition is diagnostic testing, including morphology, iron, ferritin, TSH, estrogen, and testosterone levels. Doctors divide treatments into two groups: surgical and non-surgical. Among invasive methods, hair transplantation is the most effective. Female hair transplants involve harvesting healthy follicles and implanting them into the thinning area.
Modern FUE transplants offer high success rates and minimal invasiveness. Follicles are harvested individually under local anesthesia, leaving no visible scars. Patients can return to daily activities the next day. An older method, hair implants, involved transplanting larger skin grafts, but this often produced an unnatural effect and is now rarely used.
Hair loss treatments
Doctors also recommend scalp treatments, the most popular being laser therapy and mesotherapy.
Laser therapy uses low-level red light to stimulate follicle cell metabolism and promote hair growth. It is safe, painless, and effective, with success observed in up to 70% of patients. Treatments must be done regularly.
Mesotherapy involves injecting vitamin-mineral cocktails or platelet-rich plasma into the scalp. The micro-injuries stimulate regeneration and improve circulation. PRP, derived from the patient’s own blood, is particularly effective in boosting natural regeneration and stimulating follicles.
Treatment with medical preparations
Some doctors recommend oral treatments that block testosterone’s negative effect on hair follicles. Oral therapy can stop hair loss and promote regrowth but must be continued long-term. Other options include topical solutions such as Minoxidil, applied twice daily. This is the most common external treatment for female hair loss.
There is no universal cure, so combination therapy is often most effective. Laser therapy and mesotherapy are frequently used together. The choice of treatment depends on the stage of hair loss and the patient’s individual needs.
The key is to eliminate the root cause, such as hormonal imbalance. A dermatologist should guide treatment based on scalp examination and testing. Following medical advice, maintaining a healthy diet, and supplementing with vitamins are crucial. The earlier treatment begins, the easier it is to achieve effective results.
