Hair loss in women can be gradual or sudden, diffuse or patchy, temporary or permanent. Losing around 50 to 100 hairs a day is normal, but a visible change in density, widening parting or marked shedding deserves attention, particularly when it is distressing.
Common causes include female-pattern hair loss, illness, major stress, rapid weight loss, iron deficiency, thyroid disease, some medicines and cancer treatment. Increased shedding several months after childbirth is common because hormonal change synchronises more hairs into the resting phase. It usually settles as the growth cycle resets.
Start with the cause
A GP can examine the scalp, review the pattern and timing, and arrange tests where appropriate. Mention recent pregnancy, heavy periods, dietary restriction, illness, weight change and family history. Patchy loss, scalp inflammation, broken hairs or loss of eyebrows may suggest a different condition from diffuse shedding.
Female-pattern hair loss can sometimes be treated with topical minoxidil, although it does not work for everyone and benefit lasts only while treatment continues. Finasteride should not be used by women. Hair loss related to a medical condition often improves once that condition is treated.
Gentle care reduces breakage: avoid tight styles, repeated bleaching and excessive heat, and detangle carefully with a wide-tooth comb. Cosmetic fibres, adjusted hairstyles and wigs may help confidence while the cause is being addressed.
Nutrition for normal growth
Hair follicles need energy, protein, iron, zinc and other nutrients, but more is not always better. Regular meals containing eggs, fish, meat or pulses, whole grains, vegetables, fruit, nuts and seeds provide a sound foundation. Rapid weight-loss diets and inadequate protein can trigger shedding.
Iron supplements should follow blood testing or clinical advice. Heavy menstruation and pregnancy can lower iron stores, but unnecessary iron can be harmful. Thyroid symptoms or persistent postnatal shedding also warrant assessment rather than self-treatment with iodine.
Useful supplements
Supplements should be selected for the individual rather than used automatically. Product directions and advice from an appropriately qualified professional should take precedence over general information.
| Supplement | Effects |
|---|---|
| Vitamin A | Supports normal immune function. |
| Multivitamin and mineral formula containing biotin, zinc, B vitamins, selenium and vitamin E | Biotin is described as supporting scalp-oil metabolism and hair strength; B vitamins support the nervous system, while selenium, zinc and vitamin E support normal thyroid function. |
| Vitamin C | Supports collagen formation and iron absorption in blood vessels supplying hair follicles. |
| Zinc citrate | Supports protein synthesis, immune function, vitamin A metabolism and scalp health. |
| Iron gluconate | Intended to maintain iron status during pregnancy or menstruation and support normal thyroid function when iron is needed. |
| Krill oil | Provides omega-3 fats described as supporting thyroid function and scalp hydration. |
| Flax oil | Provides omega-3, omega-6 and omega-9 fats intended to support thyroid function and scalp hydration. |
| Sprouted barley grass | Provides protein and antioxidant nutrients. |
| Spirulina | Provides protein and antioxidant nutrients. |
| Multi-strain probiotic | Intended to support bowel regularity and nutrient absorption. |
These are the source document’s stated reasons in revised wording. High-dose vitamin A can itself cause hair loss and is dangerous in pregnancy. Excess selenium can also cause hair loss, while biotin can interfere with thyroid and cardiac blood tests. Supplements should be disclosed before testing.
Hair recovery is slow because follicles cycle over months. A diagnosis-led approach, adequate nutrition and gentle styling are more useful than changing supplements every few weeks.
Looking for personalised nutrition and lifestyle support? An FNTP member may be able to help you explore an approach suited to your individual needs. Find an FNTP practitioner.
This article is for general education and does not replace individual medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
