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There is a common misconception that hair loss more commonly affects men. On the contrary, the [American Hair Loss Association reports](https://www.americanhairloss.org/women_hair_loss/introduction.html) that 40 percent of Americans dealing with hair loss are women. Impacting women at all stages of life for a variety of reasons, hair loss and thinning may be temporary or permanent depending on the situation. In honor of National Hair Loss Awareness Month this August, here are the eight most common causes of hair loss in women and how to treat and, in some cases, prevent them. 

### **1. Genetics**
While the myth that your hair is determined by your mother’s father isn’t entirely true, it’s also not completely false. “You cannot look to just one relative to predict hair growth,” says [Benjamin Paul, MD](https://aedit.com/provider/benjamin-paul-md-392), a New York City-based double board certified facial plastic surgeon. “Though your mom’s dad (maternal grandfather) is an important player, he is not the only player impacting the growth and longevity of your hair.”

Even so, your hairline is very much influenced by family history. “If many of your relatives have shown a similar pattern of hair loss to your pattern of loss, you know who to thank for the genetics involved,” he adds.

While male pattern baldness is more common, women can experience female pattern hair loss (especially after menopause), which is hereditary. In both cases, the condition is known as androgenetic alopecia. The difference is how the baldness presents — men are more likely to experience receding hairlines and balding at the top of the head, whereas women typically see thinning around the crown. 

“Female pattern hair loss is best characterized using the Ludwig classification,” explains [Gary Linkov, MD](https://aedit.com/provider/gary-linkov-md-6976), a double board certified facial plastic surgeon in New York City. “The scale ranges from stages I to III. Stage I begins with thinning on the top of the head. In stage II the scalp starts to show. All of the hair at the crown of the head may be lost when the hair loss progresses to stage III.” Treatment options range from oral and topical medication (think: [Propecia](https://aedit.com/procedure/finasteride-propecia) and [Rogaine](https://aedit.com/procedure/minoxidil-rogaine)) to wigs and [hair transplants](https://aedit.com/procedure/hair-transplant), depending on the severity of the condition.

### **2. Hormones** 
Hormonal changes and imbalances can lead to a variety of conditions, hair loss among them. “The most common type of hair loss in women is female pattern hair loss, which is analogous to male pattern hair loss and involves testosterone,” Dr. Linkov explains. For men and women alike, the hormone dihydrotestosterone (DHT) is responsible for hair loss. “Testosterone gets converted to DHT, which is largely responsible for hair miniaturization,” he says. “The pattern of hair loss, however, is different between men and women.”

Androgenic alopecia is considered the most serious form of hair loss because it is usually permanent (due to the hair follicles being miniaturized). The severity of the impact can be mitigated, however, with treatment. Women who start to notice thinning along the scalp should consult with a board certified provider. 

Hormonal changes due to pregnancy, birth control, stress, and more can also lead to temporary hair loss, which we explore below.

### **3. Hair Styling** 
‘Beauty is pain’ has its limits. Unfortunately, tying your ponytail or bun too tight, heat styling, and using harsh chemicals can take its toll on your hair. Tight hairstyles, especially cornrows and braids, can actually cause traction alopecia, which can result in a thinning hairline and gradual hair loss. Taut ponytails and braids can have a similar effect, as chronicled in a season 17 *Keeping Up With The Kardashians* episode, in which Kourtney’s sky-high ponytail led to patchiness that was [treated with PRP injections](https://aedit.com/aedition/kourtney-kardashian-prp-injections-to-treat-hair-loss). While the occasional braid, bun, or pony shouldn’t cause much harm, regular styling could lead to more permanent hair loss. 

Similarly, excessive heat styling wreaks havoc on the hair. A side effect of thermal damage is brittle, weak hair shafts, which can result in breakage. Giving your hair a break from your hair straightener, curler, and dryer will benefit your strands’ long term health. If heat styling is a must, be sure to use a heat-protectant product to mitigate damage.

Hair treatments, like perms, color, and chemical straightening, can also [weaken the hair](https://aedit.com/aedition/tips-for-styling-fine-thinning-hair-from-celebrity-hairstylists) when performed regularly. They have the potential to dry out both the hair and scalp, which may lead to hair loss.

### **4. Pregnancy & Childbirth** 
Many women report enjoying luscious locks during pregnancy, but hormonal changes mean that hair is often shed in the weeks and months after giving birth. Postpartum hair loss is common for new moms (read our guide to managing it [HERE](https://aedit.com/aedition/managing-treating-postpartum-hair-loss-thinning)), but it is rarely long-lasting. Most women see total hair restoration within a year and find that shedding is at its worst around four months postpartum. As a result, many doctors do not recommend treatment. 

### **5. Diet**
Nutritional deficiencies are also another common contributor to hair loss among women. Meeting the required dietary allowances (RDA) for vitamins and minerals — particularly iron, zinc, vitamin B, and protein — are critical for hair and overall health. 

Unhealthy eating habits, eating disorders, or certain diets can all play a part in nutritional deficiencies. Those on a vegan diet, for example, may find it difficult to consume adequate protein and vitamin B. If you think you may have hair loss related to diet, work with a board certified doctor or nutritionist to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment. Vitamins and supplements may help provide balance.

### **6. Medication**
As we’ve all heard in the laundry list of side effects at the end of pharmaceutical commercials, many medications can cause hair shedding. According to Dr. Paul, birth control is a common culprit. “A bad reaction to medication may induce telogen effluvium or shock loss,” he shares. “There is an extensive list of potential medicines that may cause this and not all medicines on the list will cause hair loss.”

If you experience hair loss after starting a new medication, consult with your provider on other potential treatment options. “It is best to review all your medicines — current and new — with your doctor at each visit,” Dr. Paul says. “If you are on a medicine that may cause shedding, you can discuss changing medicines or treatment strategies with your doctor.”

### **7. Stress**
Stress, be it psychological (e.g. the loss of a loved one or a challenging work situation) or physical (e.g. weight loss, surgery, etc.), can cause hair loss and thinning ranging from acute to severe. This kind of hair loss is known as acute telogen effluvium. “The first step is to try and eliminate or lessen the stressor,” Dr. Paul says of treating the condition. While undoing the effects of stress takes time, most patients do see a return to normal growth. “The next step is to try and stop shedding and support regrowth,” he explains. “For many, the cycle of shedding, resting, and regrowth can take as long as a year. Many, but not all, see a near full return of the hair that was lost.”  

Dr. Linkov notes that recent studies in mice have shown signaling from the sympathetic nervous system, when subjected to stress, led to the depletion of a stem cell population in the hair follicle. “This discovery sheds light on why stress turns hair prematurely grey and contributes to hair loss,” he says. In the future, such research could improve treatment and prevention options.

### **8. Medical Conditions** 
There are a number of medical conditions and treatments (think: chemotherapy) that are known to cause hair loss. Autoimmune disorders like hyperthyroidism, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and sickle cell anemia, may cause shedding.

Alopecia is another example of an autoimmune disease that results in hair loss. In this case, the immune system misidentifies the hair follicles and attacks them. Depending on the person, hair loss from alopecia can be temporary or permanent.  

Scalp psoriasis, a variation of the common skin condition, causes red, scaly patches to form around the scalp. The condition itself doesn’t cause hair loss, associated itching and scratching can. Assuming it is controlled quickly, hair usually grows back. 

## **The Takeaway**
Many women experience hair loss at some point in their life, but, for many, the condition is temporary. Consulting with a board certified provider will help to get to the root of why the shedding or thinning is occurring, so proper treatment options can be recommended.

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Wellness Collection | The AEDITION

Wellness

Some 40 percent of women will experience some form of hair loss by their fortieth birthday. Here’s what you need to know about the most common causes of hair thinning and shedding in women.

Common Causes Of Hair Loss, Thinning, Shedding In Women

8 Most Common Causes Of Hair Loss In Women

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*Feel like you need a dictionary every time you look at the ingredient list of a beauty product? Still unsure of the difference between retinol and retinoids? What about the unique benefits of vitamins B, C, and E? Are alpha and beta hydroxy acids the same thing? The skincare aisle can be overwhelming, but you don’t need a PhD in cosmetic chemistry to navigate it. With expert help, The AEDITION is demystifying and simplifying the beauty industry — [one label at a time](https://aedit.com/aedition/category/read-the-label).*

Seeing ‘caffeine’ on a beauty product label might have you wondering if this ingredient could possibly be as powerful for the skin as it is in a morning wakeup routine. As it turns out, it can offer an array of benefits for the face *and* body, thanks to its blood vessel-constricting qualities that will depuff the eye area and reduce the appearance of cellulite in a way jolt of java might not. Commonly found in [eye](https://aedit.com/aedition/how-to-treat-the-skin-around-the-eyes-with-skincare-and-non-surgical-cosmetic-procedures) and [body care products](https://aedit.com/aedition/body-scrubs-body-moisturizers-for-glowing-skin), caffeine can have an energizing effect from head to toe that goes far beyond your favorite cup of joe.

## **What Is Caffeine?** 
A natural stimulant, caffeine is an alkaloid that is derived from some 60 plant species, coffee and cacao beans among them. While you likely eat or drink it every day as part of your morning pick me up or afternoon chocolate fix, it also deserves a spot in your skincare routine. “Caffeine is an antagonist of adenosine receptors [in the central nervous system], which constricts blood vessels,” says [Morgan Rabach, MD](https://aedit.com/provider/morgan-rabach-md-17913), a New York City-based board certified dermatologist.

But that’s not its only benefit. “Caffeic acid, which is found in caffeine, is a form of hydroxycinnamic acid, a very potent antioxidant — even more effective than ferulic acid — that assists the skin in anti-aging,” explains [Amy Spizuoco, DO](https://aedit.com/provider/amy-spizuoco-19341), a board certified dermatologist in New York City. When applied topically, caffeine is a revitalizing booster for the skin that will not leave you feeling jittery.  

## **What Does Caffeine Do in Skincare?**
“Caffeine works to constrict blood vessels, which can reduce dark circles and puffiness around the eyes, as well as redness on the face,” Dr. Rabach shares. It should come as no surprise then that it is often included in eye creams and even makeup (think: concealers) that aim to minimize dark circles and reduce puffiness. “It shrinks capillaries and constricts blood vessels, fighting skin darkening and dullness,” says Sheena Yaitanes, founder of [Kosas](https://kosas.com/). “So, [it makes] dark areas, like under eyes, look brighter.”

Caffeine is also a common addition to body care products that are formulated to smooth skin or reduce the appearance of cellulite. “Many cellulite products contain caffeine because prolonged use of the caffeic acid on the skin helps it appear smoother,” Dr. Spizuoco says.

### **Finding The Right Product** 
The beauty of caffeine is that it plays well with other ingredients. According to Dr. Rabach, it is “most effective” around the eyes, where the skin is thin and it can be easily absorbed, though it can also be used on the face to “reduce puffiness and redness.”

For a caffeine boost that doesn’t involve coffee, the [Fountain of Truth Magic Wand: Sculpting Eye Roller](https://www.ulta.com/magic-wand-sculpting-eye-roller?productId=pimprod2004334) awakens tired eyes. But it’s not just eye creams that feature the ingredient. The [Kosas Revealer Concealer](https://kosas.com/products/revealer-concealer-tone-04), a creamy brightening formula for the under-eye area, features caffeine alongside a host of other rejuvenating actives. “It contains arnica and panthenol to soothe, as well as peptides and [hyaluronic acid](https://aedit.com/aedition/guide-to-hyaluronic-acid-in-skincare-dermal-filler) for plumping and moisture retention,” Yaitanes says, adding that pink algae extract is also included to “hydrate the skin and fight free radicals.” 

If combating [cellulite](https://aedit.com/aedition/the-complete-guide-to-cellulite) is your goal and you don’t want to [wait for Qwo™](https://aedit.com/aedition/qwo-cellulite-injectable-treatment-fda-approved), Sol de Janeiro’s fan-favorite [Brazilian Bum Bum Cream](https://soldejaneiro.com/collections/body-care/products/brazilian-bum-bum-cream) instantly smoothes and firms. “We formulated it with our ‘Brazilian Beauty Blend’ of cupuaçu butter, açaí, and coconut oil, as they perfectly complement the caffeine-rich Guaraná fruit,” explains [Sol de Janeiro](https://soldejaneiro.com/) founding partner Camila Pierotti. “Using a caffeine-powered product along with ingredients that nourish and condition will make your skin feel soft, smooth, and supple.”

## **Who Is Caffeine Best For?** 
Caffeine is a great addition to any skincare routine that is looking for an instant brightening and tightening effect on both the face and body. While it can be a hero ingredient for many, Dr. Rabach warns that those with skin sensitivities or certain medical conditions consult with a professional first. “Patients with rosacea and other types of redness on the skin should consult a board certified dermatologist to see if products with caffeine are right for them,” she says. “Patients that have blood pressure that is sensitive to caffeine taken by coffee or tea may want to consult their doctor before using creams, as these do get absorbed systemically.” 

## **When To Use A Caffeine-Infused Product**
When treating under-eye concerns, Dr. Spizuoco says that caffeine is “best used in the morning.” Many skincare experts recommend applying eye care products as your very first step (after cleansing and toning) to ensure proper absorption. For those who are hoping to enjoy the smoothing benefits of caffeine on their lower limbs, Dr. Spizuoco says “it is best used at bedtime” — though some caffeinated products promise an instant boost. In those cases, apply it just before heading out in your favorite cut-offs or hitting the beach.

Caffeine-addicts worried about overdoing it can rest assured: it is safe for regular use. “You would have to consume an extremely large amount of caffeine in one sitting for it to be toxic,” Pierotti says. “For caffeine in your skincare routine, always follow the usage instructions on the package.”

## **The Takeaway** 
Whether you start your day with a caffeine boost or not, a caffeine-infused beauty product may very well deserve a spot in your routine. The buzzy active offers the eyes a refresher with its ability to shrink capillaries and reduce puffiness, while it can stimulate blood flow to help create a smoother appearance in body care products. As with any ingredient, it only works if you work it, so consider consistent use to see results.

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Beauty Collection | The AEDITION

Beauty

Not just a staple in your coffee cup – caffeine can do wonders for the skin. From brightening the eyes to firming the skin, here’s what you need to know about the revitalizing ingredient.

Caffeine In Skincare Products For Eyes, Body, Cellulite

Read The Label: What You Need To Know About Caffeine In Skincare

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Summer is upon us, which means you’re likely showing a bit more skin. Pants become shorts and maxidresses and skirts become minis, as our gams finally get their moment in the sun. But, for those who are dealing with a dotted, bumpy, or spotty appearance on their legs, the short hemlines may be unwelcome. To better understand how to treat and prevent the skin conditions that are often deemed ‘strawberry legs,’ we spoke with a board certified dermatologist.

## **What Are ‘Strawberry Legs’?**
“Strawberry legs are the non-specific reference to a visual dotty appearance to the legs, usually around the hair follicles,” says [Nikhil Dhingra, MD](https://springstderm.com/physicians/nikhil-dhingra/), a board certified dermatologist at Spring Street Dermatology in New York City. “[The dots] represent trapping of a variety of common skin elements in and around the hair and oil glands.” As he explains it, the trappings can be made of up of: 

- Keratin (the skin’s main protein)
- Melanin (the source of pigment)
- Sebum (the skin’s natural oil)
- Bacteria (often, natural flora of our skin)

‘Strawberry legs’ is the colloquial term for the dark pores and dots or red bumps that appear primarily on the lower legs because they resemble the seeds of a strawberry. While strawberry legs are not medically harmful, they can be an aesthetic concern. 

## **How to Treat the Causes of Strawberry Legs**
While the appearance of strawberry legs is often the same regardless of what triggered it, there are a number of different causes. Knowing the culprit behind your dotted gams will ensure you are treating the right condition. Below are four of the most common causes of strawberry legs and the best way to treat them. 

### **1. Clogged Pores**
Just like you can get clogged pores on your face, you can also have clogged pores on your legs. Genetics and thicker body hair can cause some people to have larger pores, and, while the pores alone aren’t necessarily troublesome, they can become problematic when they get clogged with bacteria, dead skin, and sebum. [Like a blackhead on the face](https://aedit.com/aedition/how-to-treat-hormonal-acne-body-acne-cystic-acne-whiteheads-blackheads), when clogged pores on the legs are then exposed to air, the debris dries out and darkens. 

**Treatment Option**: Chemical & Physical Exfoliation 

To treat clogged pores on the legs (or anywhere on the body), borrow a step from your facial skincare routine: exfoliation.“My personal preference for my patients is chemical exfoliation, which uses ingredients like acids and retinols to increase skin cell turnover and declog pores,” Dr. Dhingra says. “What this does is gently remove keratin, oils, and other skin debris, opening up the pores and follicles, which decreases the secondary buildup of bacteria. The bacteria that cause acne and folliculitis thrive in clogged hair follicles with oils, so eliminating that build-up is key.”

He recommends finding a body wash or moisturizer with alpha- and beta-hydroxy acids (specifically, [glycolic acid](https://aedit.com/aedition/guide-to-topical-alpha-hydroxy-acids-in-skincare) and [salicylic acid](https://aedit.com/aedition/guide-to-beta-hydroxy-acids-salicylic-acid-in-skincare)) to remove the dead skin cells and other debris that cause clogged pores. “These acids exfoliate in a sufficiently gentle manner by decreasing the ‘stickiness’ of the dead or dying skin cells,” he explains. “This opens up the pores and also brings in a nice textural change and luminosity to the skin.” 

His go-to products include the [Glytone Exfoliating Body Wash](https://www.glytone-usa.com/exfoliating-body-wash) and [Body Lotion](https://www.glytone-usa.com/body-care/creams-lotions/body-lotion), [CeraVe SA Cream](https://www.cerave.com/skincare/moisturizers/sa-cream-for-rough-and-bumpy-skin), and  [Amlactin Daily Moisturizing Body Lotion](https://amlactin.com/products/amlactin-daily). Another pro tip? Dr. Dhingra says to always use a shaving cream or gel and to moisturize after shaving with an oil-free moisturizer to prevent additional build up.

### **2. Folliculitis**
Folliculitis is a common skin condition in which the hair follicles become inflamed or infected. It usually manifests as small red bumps around the hair follicles. In severe cases, people can experience hair loss in the infected area or scarring. But most cases are mild and usually clear up in a few days.

“One thing to keep in mind is that folliculitis is a broad umbrella term that refers to inflammation of the hair follicle,” Dr. Dhingra says. “This can be infectious from bacteria like staphylococcus (staph) or sterile from oil build up or trauma from shaving.” 

**Treatment Option**: Oral & Topical Medication

Folliculitis can be a “tricky condition” to treat, Dr. Dhingra says, which is why he recommends consulting with a board certified dermatologist before attempting any at-home remedies. “Folliculitis can be sterile, where red and pus-filled bumps appear secondary to things like clogged pores and shaving,” he says. “But they can also be a sign of a superficial skin infection with bacteria or yeast like staph and pityrosporum.”

While the former can be easily addressed with over-the-counter products, the latter may require prescriptions like antibiotic lotions or even pills to clear up. “A dermatologist can take a simple swab to identify if there are any organisms to target,” Dr. Dhingra says. “And, if there are, it can save you a lot of hassle and headache of trying to figure out at-home routines that work.”

**Treatment Option**: Antibacterial Skincare

When it comes to at-home treatments, they range from lifestyle changes to skincare. For starters, you’ll want to change out of your sweaty gym clothes as soon as possible and shower soon after. Once in the tub, Dr. Dhingra recommends using an antibacterial soap, like [Hibiclens](https://www.walgreens.com/store/c/hibiclens-antiseptic/antimicrobial-skin-cleanser/ID=prod6186406-product) or [PanOxyl](https://www.target.com/p/panoxyl-acne-foaming-wash-with-10-benzoyl-peroxide-5-5oz/-/A-14984165), to lather up.

**Treatment Option**: Shave Smarter

Additionally, you may want to give your shaving routine a fresh look. In addition to swapping a fancy, multi-blade razor for a disposable one, Dr. Dhingra suggests using a soothing shave cream, like the [Aveeno Therapeutic Shave Gel](https://www.target.com/p/aveeno-therapeutic-shave-gel-with-oat-for-sensitive-skin-7oz/-/A-13404207). “The tradeoff for less bumpy skin here is giving up the closest shave,” he shares. “In my mind, close shaves and folliculitis risk are inversely related.” He also says that you should shave with (rather than against) the grain every two to three shaves. “If push comes to shove and you’re prone to razor bumps, [laser hair removal](https://aedit.com/procedure/laser-hair-removal) with a trained professional will save you a lot of headache in the long run,” he adds.

### **3. Keratosis Pilaris**
Also known as ‘chicken skin,’ keratosis pilaris (KP) is a skin condition that causes tiny bumps to populate on the skin. “Keratosis pilaris is most commonly found on the upper outer arms but can affect the thighs at times,” Dr. Dhingra explains. “This represents a build-up of keratin in the hair follicles.” 

**Treatment Option**: Chemical Exfoliation 

Like clogged pores, chemical exfoliants are often an effective way of treating keratosis pilaris, but prescription-strength skincare may help as well. “Exfoliative acids are my starting remedies for keratosis pilaris,” Dr. Dhingra says. “If those don’t work, a [prescription-grade retinoid](https://aedit.com/aedition/guide-to-vitamin-a-retinol-retinoids-in-skincare) would be reasonable, but that should be used in conjunction with a certified dermatologist.”

While keratosis pilaris is often a year-round condition, it is typical to experience flare ups in the winter months when the skin is drier. Additionally, swimmers may experience a worsening of the condition due to chlorine and other pool chemicals that dehydrate the skin.

### **4. Dry Skin**
As formerly mentioned, dry skin contributes to a number of skin conditions — and strawberry legs are no exceptions. Dehydrated skin makes you more prone to irritation, especially when shaving. People with dry skin on their lower legs are more likely to experience razor burn, keratosis pilaris, folliculitis, and clogged pores, all of which can lead to a dotted appearance on the legs.

**Treatment Option**: Creams & Moisturizers 

“[Amlactin Daily Moisturizing Body Lotion](https://amlactin.com/products/amlactin-daily) and [CeraVe SA Cream](https://www.cerave.com/skincare/moisturizers/sa-cream-for-rough-and-bumpy-skin) are great starting options for extreme dry skin, especially if there’s a scaly appearance,” Dr. Dhingra shares. Ichthyosis, the medical term for dry, scaly, or thickened skin, does not always respond to traditional creams and moisturizers, which is why a dual-purpose formulation may be required. “Simple moisturizing isn’t always sufficient because there’s a thicker than normal layer of dead skin on the surface,” he explains. “Exfoliative creams gently remove that layer, allowing for thicker moisturizers, like [Aquaphor](https://www.target.com/p/aquaphor-healing-ointment-for-dry-38-cracked-skin-1-75oz/-/A-13287607), to penetrate the healthier layers below.”

## **The Takeaway**
Strawberry legs may be an umbrella term for a number of skin conditions, but there are a number of things that can be done at-home and in-office to both treat and prevent a bumpy or dotted appearance. Before taking treatment into your own hands, be sure to consult with a board certified dermatologist so you can ensure you understand the root cause of your condition. 

To better understand how to treat and prevent the dotted, spotted, and bumpy skin conditions that are often deemed ‘strawberry legs,’ The AEDITION speaks with a board certified dermatologist.

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