Hair thinning in women is very common, especially in your 30s, 40s, and 50s. If you are asking, “Why is my hair thinning?” there is usually a clear reason behind it.
Here are the most common causes of female hair thinning.
Hormone Changes
Menopause, perimenopause, pregnancy, and stopping contraception can all trigger thinning hair. Lower oestrogen levels can cause hair to grow back finer and weaker.
Female Pattern Hair Loss
This genetic type of hair loss develops gradually. You may notice a widening part or reduced volume at the crown.
Iron or Vitamin Deficiency
Low iron, vitamin D, zinc, or protein can slow hair growth and increase shedding. Feeling tired alongside thinning is a common sign.
Thyroid Problems
An underactive or overactive thyroid can cause overall hair thinning across the scalp.
Stress
Long-term stress can push hair into a resting phase, leading to noticeable shedding a few months later.
Tight Hairstyles and Heat Damage
Frequent tight ponytails, braids, extensions, or excessive heat styling can weaken hair and cause thinning around the hairline.
If hair thinning lasts longer than three months, a qualified trichologist can assess your scalp health, hair density, and possible triggers.
Find a registered trichologist here:
https://www.trichologists.org.uk/find-a-trichologist/
Hair thinning in women is often manageable once the cause is identified. Early advice makes a real difference.
A Closer Look at Hair Thinning in Women
Hair Thinning in Women: Causes and What You Can Do
Hair thinning in women is more common than many people realise. If you have been asking yourself, “Why is my hair thinning?” you are not alone.
Hair often changes gradually. You may notice your parting becoming wider, your ponytail feeling smaller, or your hair lacking the volume it once had. Understanding the cause is the first step towards improving it.
Below are the most common causes of hair thinning in women and when to seek professional advice.
What Does Hair Thinning in Women Look Like?
Hair thinning is different from sudden hair loss. It usually develops slowly and affects overall density rather than creating bald patches.
Common signs include:
- A wider centre parting
- Thinner hair at the crown
- More visible scalp in bright light
- Reduced volume
- Finer strands growing back
Unlike male pattern baldness, women rarely lose all their hair in one area. Instead, it becomes gradually less dense over time.
1. Hormone Changes
Hormones play a key role in female hair health.
Hair thinning in women often increases during:
- Perimenopause
- Menopause
- After pregnancy
- Coming off hormonal contraception
Lower levels of oestrogen can cause hair to grow back finer and shorter. This is why menopause hair thinning is one of the most common concerns seen in clinic.
2. Female Pattern Hair Loss
Female pattern hair loss is genetic. It develops slowly and usually shows as thinning at the crown and widening of the parting.
It does not normally cause complete baldness, but early assessment can slow progression and support regrowth where possible.
3. Iron and Nutrient Deficiency
Hair is not essential for survival, so the body prioritises other organs when nutrients are low.
Low levels of the following can contribute to hair thinning in women:
- Iron
- Vitamin D
- Zinc
- Protein
If you are experiencing fatigue alongside thinning hair, it may be worth discussing blood tests with your GP.
4. Thyroid Imbalance
The thyroid gland controls metabolism and energy levels. If it is underactive or overactive, it can disrupt the hair growth cycle.
This often leads to diffuse thinning, which means hair becomes thinner across the whole scalp rather than in one specific area.
5. Stress and Lifestyle Factors
Long periods of stress can push hair into a resting phase. A few months later, increased shedding may occur. This is sometimes temporary, but repeated stress can affect long term density.
Other lifestyle factors include:
- Poor diet
- Rapid weight loss
- Lack of sleep
- Tight hairstyles
- Excessive heat styling
Traction alopecia is hair thinning caused by repeated pulling from tight hairstyles.
When Should You Seek Help for Hair Thinning?
If hair thinning lasts longer than three months, becomes more noticeable, or causes distress, it is worth seeking advice from a qualified trichologist.
A trichologist will assess:
- Scalp health
- Hair density
- Medical history
- Hormonal changes
- Lifestyle triggers
You can find a registered specialist here:
https://www.trichologists.org.uk/find-a-trichologist/
You can book a no obligation appraisal with us here
Early advice often leads to better outcomes.
Can Hair Thinning in Women Improve?
In many cases, yes.
The key is identifying the underlying cause. Some types of female hair thinning are temporary, while others require ongoing management. The sooner you understand what is happening, the more options you have.
Hair changes can feel emotional, but support is available and many women see improvement with the right approach.
