Hair shaft is getting "finer"

VeggieGirl · 03-24-2008, 02:46 AM

Sometimes when I brush my hair, I lose hairs that are so fine that they don't even seem like they should by mine. My hair has always been thick-shafted. I thought I read that this is a sign of male-pattern hair loss, as over time, the follicle gets smaller and smaller and finally, it isn't there anymore (which is why men get that super-shiny baldness). Is this true, and does anyone else experience this?

hopelina · 03-24-2008, 10:11 AM

yes, this process is called hair follicle miniaturisation.

DHT (Dihydrotestosterone)
DHT is a male hormone that is suggested to be the main cause for the miniaturisation of the hair follicle and for hair loss. DHT is formed when the male hormone testosterone interacts with the enzyme 5-alpha reductase.

from here: http://www.follicle.com/hair-loss-glossary.html

Another link:
http://www.hairscientists.org/androg...ia-(women).htm

Androgenic Alopecia in women is caused by follicular miniaturisation associated with endocrine changes and increased androgen presence. Accompanying factors may include: Polycystic ovarian syndrome, virilisation (and hirsutism), irregular menstruation, infertility, acne, seborrhoea oleosa.

VeggieGirl · 03-24-2008, 10:33 AM

Thank you for the links- they're both very helpful!

VeggieGirl · 03-24-2008, 10:57 AM

Another question: does having this symptom rule out vitamin/mineral deficiency as a cause, then, or does follicle miniaturization occur with that, too?

hopelina · 03-25-2008, 04:28 AM

From what I know, but I am definely not an expert ! , follicle miniaturisation does nor occur because of vitamin / mineral deficency. But hair loss does. The hair loss that is produced by vitamin / mineral deficeny is called telogen effluvium and is reversible.