Savvy Senior: Why do women lose hair as they age?

Thinning hair is a common concern for women as they age, particularly after menopause, but experts say it should not be automatically dismissed as an inevitable part of getting older. While some loss is normal, it can also signal underlying health conditions, medication side effects, nutritional deficiencies, or stress.

One of the most frequent causes is female pattern hair loss, or androgenetic alopecia, which typically appears as gradual thinning on top of the scalp or a widening part. Declining estrogen levels after menopause can alter the hair growth cycle, causing strands to become finer and shed more easily. However, shedding can also follow major illness, surgery, COVID-19 infection, or significant stress, often beginning months later.

Other potential triggers include thyroid disorders, iron deficiency, autoimmune conditions, scalp disorders, and poor nutrition. A wide range of medications — such as blood thinners, antidepressants, beta blockers, cholesterol drugs, and hormone therapies — have also been linked to hair loss. Patients are advised not to stop any medication without consulting a doctor about alternatives.

Because causes vary, a medical evaluation is the recommended first step. A doctor or dermatologist can review medications, examine the scalp, and order blood tests to check for thyroid imbalance or iron deficiency. Treating an identified underlying condition may restore hair growth.

For age-related female pattern hair loss, topical minoxidil (Rogaine) has the strongest evidence for slowing thinning and stimulating regrowth, though results take months and require continued use. Low-dose oral minoxidil is an off-label option for some women but requires medical supervision. Experts caution that supplements like biotin offer little benefit without a diagnosed deficiency and can interfere with lab tests. Gentle hair care, avoiding tight styles and excessive heat, and cosmetic options like thickening fibers can also help manage appearance.

Sources: Las Vegas Review-Journal