Hair loss is such a sensitive subject. If it’s a problem that started for no apparent reason, your GP should be your first port of call, and you may be referred to a dermatologist for tests. You can also see a hair loss specialist (a trichologist) privately, too.
The first step is pinpointing any obvious causes, often through blood tests. “There are many possible causes of hair loss,” says Anabel Kingsley, trichologist at Philip Kingsley. “These include anything from hormonal changes and genetics through to thyroid health, nutritional deficiencies, stress and scalp health.”
For women, the most common issue is female pattern hair loss, thinning from the centre parting, and telogen effluvium, which is excessive daily hair fall. “While 40 is young, it’s also the age when many women enter perimenopause, and oestrogen levels start to become unpredictable and decline,” Kingsley says. “Estrogen supports the scalp and helps to keep strands in their growth phase, so fluctuations of this hormone can cause extra daily hair fall.”
So what can you do? Minoxidil (tablets or topically) can help female pattern hair loss. “Hormonal hair shedding often has to run its course, but topical drops can help minimise it,” Kingsley says. A dermatologist may also prescribe spironolactone, which can help with hair growth, but isn’t suitable for everyone. Pick a course of action and try it for a few months – but take before and after pictures, so you can see what has made the difference.
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Got a beauty question for Anita? Email her at beautyQandA@theguardian.com