You may think hair loss is mostly a problem affecting men. However, women are nearly as likely to have hair loss or thinning hair. In fact, 40% of the hair loss sufferers in America are women. While women typically notice hair loss in their 50s or 60s, hair loss can occur at any age. 

While a man's hair tends to recede from the forehead or the crown of the head, women usually notice their hair thinning on the top third or half of the scalp. A woman who is losing her hair may notice that the part in her hair is slowly becoming wider or she may see more of her scalp than usual when she pulls her hair back. Additionally, a woman who is losing her hair may notice that she has an unusually large number of hairs on her pillow when she wakes up in the morning or in her comb after she combs her hair. 

There are numerous possible causes for hair loss in women. Heredity is the most common cause of hair loss in both men and women. Heredity also dictates the age you begin to lose hair, the rate at which you lose hair, and the extent to which hair loss occurs. 

Hormone changes can also account for hair loss. These may occur during pregnancy, childbirth, or with the onset of menopause. Thyroid problems can also lead to hair loss, as the thyroid affects hormone levels as well.

Scalp infections, such as ringworm, can also lead to hair loss. Other medical conditions, such as sarcoidosis, lichen planus, and some types of lupus can cause hair loss as well. Medications, such as those used for depression, birth control, high blood pressure, cancer, heart problems, and arthritis can also cause hair loss. Taking too much vitamin A can result in hair loss as well. 

Stress, radiation to the head, and excessive hair styling can also cause hair loss. Hair styles that pull your hair tight, such as cornrows or pigtails can lead to hair loss.

Hair loss is not an uncommon problem for women. There are many potential causes as to why a woman might be losing her hair. Sometimes, finding the answer to what's causing your hair loss can help prevent hair loss from becoming permanent.