Hair loss - any suggestions?

[Mumofboys000]

I’m 37 years old and over the last 6 months or so I’ve noticed that I’m shedding a lot more hair than usual when I shower, and my hair feels quite a bit thinner, especially at the front. My hair has always been fine, so that makes it more noticeable. It’s really getting me down - I never wear my hair down anymore as it looks awful, and I should imagine that this makes it worse as it’s always pulled back. I’ve started taking hair & nail supplements and am thinking of going to see my GP too in case it’s related to something else eg thyroid etc. Has anyone else had this experience? Can you suggest anything that might help, and any good scalp treatments or shampoos that might help reduce the shedding? TIA

Oh me too. I'm 38, mine started earlier in the summer. It was very very thick and is noticeably thinner to me. I went to the dr and was very low in folate, vitamin d and iron. I'd also had quite a stressful start to the year with my beloved nana having to go into a nursing home due to dementia. It's worth going to the drs for a blood test OP, it could be just stress but might be something treatable.

Head high supplements worked for me.

ferritin levels need to be above 50/70 for hair.

Hello OP.

So sorry you're experiencing hair loss - it's very distressing and sadly, there's no quick fix.

I recommend your first port of call to be the GP, just as you're doing, to check for an underlying cause. Please make sure you get sight of your results as NHS guidelines for what's 'normal' doesn't always tally with what's really normal!

I suggest a close look at your ferritin level, which is different from your HB level. If it's below 70, low ferritin could be the cause, as it does cause loss, specifically at the hairline.

Hair lotions and potions can stimulate your scalf, but normally because you're simply massaging them in and encouraging blood flow to your scalp. Don't believe the hype, but use one if you want to keep your scalp happy! It certainly will help it's overall health.

Your GP may offer you Rogaine or minoxidill. Please consider this option carefully. I chose not to use it, because as soon as you stop using the product, your hair will still fall. I felt it was more of a sticking plaster, but the choice is yours.

And please remember that hair has a fall/regrowth cycle of three to four months - so even if you are taking steps to improve things, it may take a while.

I hope that helps you. x

Have you been dieting or had a baby in the last few months? My hair started falling out about 3mths after I started a diet. It stopped after a month and no issue since.
I agree with seeing the GP to check if its a deficiency such as a thyroid issue, anaemia or a hormonal issue- possibly peri?

I am following with interest. I have just turned 40 and my hair is really getting me down. Even my hairdresser asked if it has 'Always been like this.'
Problem is twofold for me. One I am on immune suppressants which can cause hair thinning, secondly, my mum has really thin hair and has a bald patch in the middle so I also think it's genetics, as well as my age.
It really gets me down so I do get it OP.
Interesting about the ferritin levels. Mine was 11 once and is most likely still low so should get that checked

I had really bad hair loss. My hair was coming out in handfuls in the shower. Anyway I had a Vit D test and it was 7. The Dr called and gave me an emergency supply of Vit D. I used to have such thick hair I couldn't feel my scalp and although it's definitely grown back, it's not anywhere near where it was but it's no longer thin.

I'd definitely get your bloods done to see if you have deficiencies or if it's something else.

Hi OP I'm in the exact same boat. I'm 42 now but started noticing it a few years ago and it hasn't stopped. Lots of hair loss in the shower and individual strands falling out all day. I got my bloods tested but GP said my levels were normal. I'm sceptical of supplements and miracle hair products, so haven't really done anything about it. It sucks

Might it be Telogen Effluvium? It can happen after rapid weight loss, illness (especially if you had a fever), giving birth and following a major stressful event.

The hair loss tends to become noticeable about 2 to 3 months after the cause and goes on for about 2 to 6 months.

I've had it after Covid, giving birth, rapid weight loss and scarlet fever.

It's horrible, but it does grow back eventually. In fact, the irony is that the hair is falling because new hair growth is pushing it out.

Thanks everyone, really helpful suggestions. Trip to the GP I think and see if there’s anything going on!