Monday Musings – It’s Never Just Hair
Monday Musings – Hair Loss Is Brutal
Today’s post is a bit of a life update on something I’ve been struggling with again behind the scenes.
Thinning hair and hair loss are brutal on a woman’s self-esteem. We know full well our worth isn’t tied to our hair, yet we still feel that sickening sink in our stomach when we look at the shower drain. Have you ever caught yourself staring at your scalp in the bathroom mirror under direct light, just trying to figure out if it’s worse today than it was last month? I don’t know about you, but being told “it’s only hair” has never once made the scalp showing through any less unsettling. It certainly doesn’t make the loss any easier to carry.
My own battle with thinning hair has been going on for a decade now.
Over the years, I’ve tried just about everything: topical minoxidil, GrandeHAIR serum (do I know if it works? I can’t say for sure since I’m doing so much else, but it’s easy enough and I’m not stopping now). And eventually oral minoxidil prescribed by my dermatologist. That oral minoxidil made a massive difference for a long time. Later, we added finasteride. Here are some other things that help.
Until recently, when my latest bout of shedding decided to go on longer than usual. My female pattern hair loss shows up mostly on the top and sides, leaving the back thick and lush. It’s a bit of cruel irony that isn’t particularly helpful when looking in the mirror. I’d been trying to grow my hair into a single length. But the front got so thin I finally threw in the towel and had my bangs cut back in.
I snapped one quick picture on the plane home to California, which might be the only photo you see of me for several days because I also picked this week to start another round of skin cancer cream. And my nose and cheeks currently look like I stuck my face in a bowl of spaghetti sauce.
A few weeks ago, out of sheer frustration, I brought up PRP (platelet-rich plasma) with my dermatologist.
I didn’t choose it on a whim. There’s real scientific research behind PRP for female pattern hair loss showing that concentrated growth factors can increase hair density and shaft thickness. Because my dermatologist recommended it as a solid next step alongside my medications, I decided to try it.
The theory is straightforward… they draw your blood, spin it in a centrifuge to separate the plasma, and inject it directly into the thinning spots. It works best where follicles are struggling but still active, rather than areas that have been smooth for years. For scalp treatment targeting the top and sides, they place injections about half an inch apart in a tight grid across the head.
What nobody adequately prepares you for is that they do not numb your scalp first.
At least mine wasn’t… and let me tell you, it’s excruciating. I sat breathing deeply, white-knuckling the chair, just trying not to ask them to stop. I went home with a throbbing headache that lasted for days, alongside a bruised, swollen scalp. And I swore I’d never do it again, but I scheduled the next two monthly appointments.
If you’ve ever considered this or a dermatologist has mentioned it, a couple of practical things are worth knowing. PRP is strictly out of pocket because insurance treats it as cosmetic. You also have to avoid anti-inflammatory medications like Advil or Aleve for a few days before and after, because that temporary inflammatory response is actually what triggers the healing process.
Because PRP works on the biological schedule of our hair cycle, patience is required… and patience has never been my strong suit. Expecting overnight miracles only leads to frustration, but knowing the realistic timeline keeps me grounded.
Timeline:
- Month 1: Everything happens under the hood. Growth factors wake up dormant follicles and boost circulation, though I won’t see a thing in the mirror yet.
- Month 2: The first real win isn’t new growth; it’s reduced shedding. I should start seeing fewer strands in the brush and shower.
- Months 3–4: Fine new hairs begin pushing through, and existing strands start feeling a bit sturdier under my fingers.
- Months 6–12: Peak density arrives. Thinning areas look visibly fuller, and texture improves.
To keep whatever progress I make, PRP requires an initial series of 3 to 4 monthly sessions, followed by a maintenance shot every 6 to 12 months. I chose 3 sessions and am praying it helps.
One of the meaner tricks of hair loss is how confusing it can be to figure out what’s actually causing it.
Extreme stress can trigger a temporary shedding phase known as telogen effluvium, but that’s very different from long-term thinning, which is usually tied to genetics, shifting hormones, thyroid imbalances, or nutritional deficiencies. Being told to “just relax” is completely useless when the real issue is biological, and the evidence is sitting right there in your hairbrush.
Too often, when women bring up hair loss to a doctor, we get dismissed with a wave of the hand, a suggestion to reduce stress, or a polite “it just happens as we age.” If your dermatologist brushes you off, don’t just accept it. Demand to be taken seriously, ask for tests to rule out underlying issues, or find another doctor who will actually listen and help you explore real options.
Hair loss isn’t trivial, and acknowledging that doesn’t make us vain. It just makes us practical women dealing with a frustrating, painful reality, doing what we can to advocate for ourselves and tackle it head-on together. We spend so much time carrying this worry in silence. If you’ve been through something similar, or if you’re right in the middle of it like I am, I’d love for you to share your story in the comments.
I experience hair loss around my front hairline and sides also. I am diagnosed with Lichen Planopalaris with Frontal Fibrosising Aleopcia. Extreme itching and raised bumps on the hair follicles led to the diagnosis. I did my research and decided against strong medication at my age (78) for this issue. Many folks with this same disease experienced no improvement after trying multiple meds.
I can still get by without helper hair for now. When the time comes, I will go that route. I don’t want to risk ruining my health for the sake of my hair. I can buy hair. I can’t buy my health back!
I have a friend who struggles with that too. It’s very challenging.
Good luck to you!! Looking and feeling good can be so hard sometimes. I also have very fine and thin hair but after being bald for over 6 months due to chemo I am just thankful to have hair. Lol! I just keep mine short and figure shiny is the best that I can do. But I realize that doesn’t work for everyone. Hope it all goes well. Maybe they can put a topical pain killer on before the next procedure.
Thanks Judy, I’m going to ask about it.
This may not be helpful and you may have already considered it, but I’ve seen some natural hair pieces for women with thinning hair. I thought they gave a natural look. Wishing you success. I know how bothered you are with the hair problem. I don’t blame you one bit.
Thanks so much
I use Boldlfy hair powder for my thinning part, and rosemary shampoo from WholeFoods. I take biotin. My fine thinning hair is on top. Parting it to the side helps it look fuller. My hair sheds in cycles and has been doing it for years, since menopause. If it gets worse I will try a topper. I have a friend who wears cute hair bands to hide thinning. I could wear a wig later on, if it really gets bad. I have a friend who has worn one for years ,and it looks real. She does not go cheap ,and seems to be worth it.
Sorry you are suffering loss of hair as well. I never in my wildest dreams thought I would have this problem. I always had medium course very thick hair. Now it is so fine, like baby hair.
It seems to sneak up on us. I flip my part from one side to the other for more volume, too.
Can you tell me more about the hair bands your friend uses, please? Is it hair or fabric bands? Brand names or purchase links?
I’m so sorry for what you are going through. Thank you for sharing your experience. Someone should do a documentary about older women being dismissed. It’s a double whammy.
Thanks, Eileen. It is epidemic and unacceptable.
I’m so sorry you’re dealing with this. Although my issue is different, it is one that is visible and causes me great distress and anxiety. I really admire your honesty and courage in sharing how you feel. Thank you SO, SO much for providing a space to share and to receive/give support. Hugs, Jennifer.
Sending you hugs and best wishes, Linda!! Thanks for being here with us.
I would like to second Linda’s thanks for your honesty and for allowing the rest of us over-60s know that we have companions in our vicissitudes. So often, bloggers’ lives look perfect and can lead the rest of us to think that we’re somehow outliers to have problems, whether of health, mobility, or appearance.
My pleasure. I, too, get discouraged when I see so many whitewashed lives. Mine is messy in the best way:) Glad you’re here.
Dear Jennifer, I am so sorry to hear what you are going through. By chance are you on any meds for blood pressure? Some of them cause significant hair loss but even if you read the entire enclosed package that is not mentioned because that is not considered to be an important or medical side effect!
I really hope things improve for you soon; you are dealing with quite a bit. 💕
I’ve just been able to go off my BP meds, so fingers crossed. My Dr never mentioned that possibility and I’ve been on the same medicine for many years. Thank you for mentioning it.
Hi Jo – can you say more about which BP meds can cause hair loss? Thank you so much.
I am so sorry this is happening to you. Hopefully, you will find a solution that fixes the problem. Sending good vibes!
Thanks Mary
I have been taking Spironolactone (100 mg) and oral Minoxidil (2.5mg) for a few years now. I really don’t know if it works, but I am too scared to stop!
I still have a fair amount of hair in the middle back, but I have never had much hair. It’s very expensive, but I have thought about a hair transplant. I have been told that the hair follicles in the back are resistant to the female pattern baldness. I also wonder how HRT fits into the hair-thinning scenario. Thank you for speaking on the topic.
If you stop oral or topical Minoxidil, you will lose all the hair it has helped grow. I don’t plan to stop unless I have horrible side effects.
A couple of ideas for you. Maybe a functional medicine doctor can figure out why your hair is thinning and fix the root (pun not intended!) of the problem. Also, maybe a head and neck massage would be beneficial before the PRP injections. My son got them in his neck and his neck muscles were incredibly tight. It was a very painful process for him as well. I’m thinking that a massage would relax the muscles around your head. Wishing you lots of luck and hair growth!
That sounds like a great idea. I think scalp massages are the best!
From your photos, it appears you’ve lost weight. Shedding is an unfortunate side effect. Hopefully you’re eating enough protein and getting enough iron, shedding stops, and it will start to grow back.
I have lost some weight, but I’ve stayed stable for 3 months, so that may have been another culprit…but the Ledderhose disease in my feet has improved a lot, and it was very painful. I do concentrate on getting a lot of protein from chicken, fish, and pea protein.
I had several PRP treatments about eight years ago. They were helpful but not enough to warrant the cost. I do remember that the doctor applied ice packs to the area before the treatment started. It helped with the pain and I never had a headache after the injections.
I wish you the best of luck. Our hair is so much of our identity.
I’ve lost so much of my hair, I just want to cry! It’s always been fine and straight, but there was quite a bit of it. Then I went on Mounjaro. I lost 125 lbs and most of my hair. I bought Nutrafol, but my doctor told me not to take it because it might not mix with my blood thinners! Biotin and protein dont work. I can’t afford much! I love my new body (except my crepey arms!) but I need hair! I’m 69. Any ideas?
Wow, congratulations! That’s great for your health losing weight. Ask if you can take oral minoxidil or use the topical.
The weight loss has done wonders for my health! I’m off of all diabetic drugs! My A1c is 5.1 and has been for months! I’m off of blood pressure meds and no longer need my CPAP to sleep! It’s a whole different life! But I feel ugly without my hair (and boy do I have wrinkles I never had before!)
That’s amazing!! I’m happy for you. Your health is so important. You can always wear sleeves and a hair topper!!
Jennifer- I had a thyroidectomy 12 yrs ago & also developed Sjrogrens & hair thinning at that same time.
I’ve been doing PRP twice a year for about 8 yrs now along with topical minoxidil once a day. My hair shedding mostly occurs in the summer & fall and then will taper off only to start again the next summer. PRP was a game changer for me. I usually get a treatment in May & another in Oct. They have really decreased the duration & amount of shedding. My dermatologist offers ice packs on the scalp prior to treatment, but I find I don’t need them. I hope you get good results with your treatments!
Thanks for sharing… it really helps me feel hopeful!
Hair loss is as bad as wrinkles to me. I have been having a collagen drink and that seems to have slowed down my shedding. My beautician has had results with HERS vitamins, so that will be my next step. Thank you for your articles that help make us feel like we are not alone.
I am so sorry to hear of the level of discomfort you experienced during the PRP process. Does your dermatologist offer ProNox (nitrous oxide) as a comfort measure? If not, many places do offer offer it. May want to check elsewhere for next time. Fingers crossed that you get favorable results. I have heard good things about it.
I didn’t even think to ask! I certainly wi ask now.
my hair has been thin, baby fine, and very straight all my life. of course it is worse now that i am a senior citizen. i have tried all the things you mentioned, including PRP treatments. ouch! i did the series of 4 and got no results at all. the only thing that has helped a bit is oral minoxidil. not much, but a bit. i feel your pain. for a couple of years i even wore a hairpiece. it looked very nice but was hot and if there was a breeze, the fact that i was wearing a hairpiece was immediately obvious.
i have a great hairdresser now who makes the most with the least and have decided to accept that, when it comes to my hair, things will never get better so i need to get over it and move on.
Best wishes, Susan!!
yes, i’ve noticed definite hair thinning over the last year or two. my female dr suggested it is attributed to my recent 40 lb weight loss (not glp-1 resultant). however, while that may have exacerbated the issue, i believe it is more hereditary from my paternal grandmother. she also had very fine, very thin, delicate hair, as did her sisters and mother. i have been using rosemary oil 2-3 times per week, mixing 5 drops into my small dollop of Resource shampoo and massaging into my scalp. after 4 months, i am seeing an abundance of new hair at my temples; however, the new hair is still very thin and fine.
Hair loss in women is not for sissies! For me, using Minoxidil for Men has really helped. I use a double dose once a day. The itchiness does drive me batty sometimes. If I miss more than a day or two, the shedding starts back and fast. We are talking major hair shedding! I did consider the oral version, but was concerned with more facial hair. I’m got enough of that!! Good luck with your journey. You are extremely well informed. Thank you for sharing!
I got no additional facial hair. That’s for high doses. You might reconsider it
Jennifer,
The PRP sounds really rough!
I had PRP on both hips for tendinitis. It worked so well!
So, fingers crossed you’ll have the same luck. It really is an amazing treatment.
Best,
Lisa
Thanks Lisa
I can relate, I had a PRP injection in my shoulder, it was excruciating as well. You are tough to keep going! My shoulder did improve after it so hoping you have the same outcome.
I’ve read very good reports about the PRP so I’m praying it’s helps me
So true to have doctors trivialize something that causes women anxiety, depression and low self esteem.
Yes! I won’t tolerate it from any doctor. No woman should.
Hi Jennifer, I had thinning for a few years and then overall hairloss due to Telogen Effluvium last year. I have been diligent about taking low dose oral minoxidil, “Hair Essentials”, a hair supplement from Alaya, a collagen supplement, and using Zenagen shampoo and conditioner (I think that is all—maybe more supplements?). Just in the last month, after my last trim, I think my hair seemed not as “see-through” as it has been. Your posts from the past truly have helped me face the sadness from hairloss. So sorry to hear you are still struggling. I really hope the PRP treatments are successful-I admire your determination and not giving up!
PS. I follow a dermatologist, Dr. Sam Ellis, who lives in the Bay Area, who specializes in hair regrowth. Not sure she says anything you haven’t already heard, but I like her suggestions.
I’m sorry to hear you’re struggling too. It makes me so sad, then frustrated, then motivated to find a solution.
Jennifer, I also have fine and thinning hair . I have done topical minoxidil for years. I admire how good your hair looks in pictures. As a fellow skin cancer sufferer I need to wear hats and wonder how your hair looks after wearing hats. I often pin curl my hair under the hat (thin wavy hair) to avoid the flat, stuck to my head look when I take my hat off lol. You seem to wear hats, any solution that helps you keep your hair decent after wearing a hat? Good luck with your hair treatments. Gail
I just leave the hat on all day or deal with the flatness. My nose and sun protection is critical. Those pincurls sound like a great idea.
I also love the pin curl idea!
I certainly understand the frustration you are going through. I’m not sure if you are familiar with Tapping Solutions. There is a tapping script for hair loss. Look on Your Tube for Nick Ortner and Tapping Solutions.
I have thyroid issues and tapping has helped me. I use is daily for other life issues too. It has helped me and many others.
Wishing you the best with your hair – you always look lovely.
Thank you Patricia. I had never heard of this. I’ll check it out!
Wishing you well. I thought I had thin hair, it’s not the same as you. But our hair is one of the first visuals a person will notice. I know on ‘bad’ hair days I prefer to stay home. Thank you for sharing and giving information that is so important. I’ve always had bangs, so I know they do help somewhat…….take care..hugs
Thanks Nancy.
Good Morning, It is ironic that our hair keep growing nicely at the back of our head, maybe I could wrap it around to the front (kind of like a guy “comb over”) The final touch to this thinning forehead hair – I went to my eye surgeon to do a little tuck on a droopy eyelid. Well, she explained that she must “lift my forehead” and said it would be difficult to hide the surgery in my thin hair. I’m thinking wiglets.
I’d never lift my forehead! I’d have no hair. Love your comb over idea. That’s hilarious.
I feel your pain. My hair started thinning I’m my early 40’s because of hormones. After I had a hysterectomy it got better but I never got back my full head of hair. I started using Rogaine and that helped keep what I had at least. Then I had breast cancer and lost all my hair. Amazingly it grew back thick on top but thin on the sides so I gave up trying to grow it out and I just have a pixie. I haven’t had much shedding since but I never gave up the Rogaine treatments. I’ve been thinking you hair looked great in your latest pictures! Hang in there. 🌸
Pixies are great. Just so you know, if you stop Rogaine, you will lose all the hair it helped you grow.
Aveda has a product for thinning hair called Thickening Tonic Styling Spray. Obviously it’s not a permanent fix but if you section you hair and spray it, it will look much fuller. Good luck!
Thanks Mary Lou
I have been fighting hair loss for three years. I take Minoxidil tablets 2.5 milligrams. Also,have you had your testosterone checked? It causes male pattern baldness. I went to my woman Health clinic because I was so tired and wanted to see if my hormones were the problem. My testosterone which was supposed to be 30 to 40 was 410. Lucky me as I now have to have a hysterectomy. High testosterone can e caused by thickening of the uterus wall. It might be something you want to check into.
I’ve never had that tested!! Thank you Connie. I will ask my doctor
I use PRP treatments for severe bursitis in my left hip. I pay $650 every 4 months for this treatment and it keeps me walking. The other option is a bursectomy which I’m considering. I’ve have this for 30+ years.
It sounds like a miracle.
I’ve had very fine, thin hair for most of my life. I have pale skin and dark hair, so my scalp easily shows through. The only thing that has worked for me is keeping my hair short and layered, avoiding any heated styling tools, and not using any harsh haircare products, esp those with fragrance and other irritants. Also, I know you like hats, but I found that avoiding any kind of friction on my hair also helps. I feel for you, as do your other readers!
Thanks Annie. Luckily my hair is too short for a ponytail etc. I know they’re bad for hair.
I have the same struggle. Two comments: I read a doctor’s viewpoint who said women are prone to run their fingers through their hair unconsciously resulting in hair being pulled out. Next, I have started using a detangler and wide bristle brush after shampooing. Seems to help. Good luck.
Great points!
Have you considered FUE hair transplants? Having it done in Istanbul is much much cheaper than in the US. There are clinics there that are all inclusive with airport pickup and hotels
I have been reading about them. Thanks for bringing it up here.
I have always had thin, fine hair, thanks Mom, but in the past few years it has thinned even more. In June my dermatologist prescribed oral Minoxidil at 1/2 the dose for two months. After that I switched to the full dose. I am seeing much less hair loss but not any new growth yet. My stylist told me to give it 8 months to a year. In the meantime I bought some colored powder to “pounce” on the thin areas from a company I don’t recommend because in very small print they signed me up for monthly shipments and it was a bear to stop them. Coloring the thinner spots, along with my now very obvious cowlicks, with the powder has really helped my confidence. If things don’t improve at the end of a year on Minoxidil I’m thinking about a topper. There are many companies advertising on FB/Instagram but my stylist said she can set that up for me when I’m ready. I have a friend who developed alopecia in her mid 70’s and lost every hair on her body. I admire her so much because she has handled it with grace, I don’t know if I could!
You will find the oral Minoxidil a miracle, but it takes more time to see regrowth. I was on the half dose and am gradually increasing to the full dose.
I’m on the same horrible hair loss journey. I’m 73 and I often wonder if I went on hormones if I would have kept my hair. Probably too late now to start that. But with your encouragement (thank you!) I am on oral minoxidil. This is month 9 and while I think it is helping, lately it seems like I’m shedding more. I’m sticking to the 1.25 mg dose as I’m afraid the higher dose will cause me to start growing hair everywhere….as many comments I have read. Good luck with the PRP injections….I truly hope it does wonders. And thank you for all you do for us every day.
It’s too late for hormones for me. I’m ramping up slowly to the full dose because results are much stronger with that. Also check with your dr about adding finasteride.
I don’t think men know that women have always heard that your hair is your crowning glory. I understand that if your hair is not right neither are you. I will keep you in my prayers for good results to your process. Keep the faith and positive thinking.
Thanks Julie
My female pattern baldness started during covid. I have tried several potions, shampoos and supplements to no avail. I have not tried minoxidil or any prescriptions as I believe they are toxic. I use routine shampoo which fluffs my hair up. I have come to terms with hair loss and try to put it in perspective that it’s not caused by cancer treatment and count my blessings for that. I plan on getting a short pixie topper with bangs. In preparation for that I am sliwly growing out my grey to get a good natural match for the topper.
Toppers are a great option, Deb.
I want to thank you for your transparency and honesty.
I have just lost all of my hair due to 6 rounds of harsh chemotherapy. This is my second bout with cancer. I lost it all the first time and it did come back. Not as lush, but with correct colour and style – I thought it looked great. I am about 5 days out from when I might scientifically see some regrowth. [But who’s counting!]. I have researched lots of possible ways to encourage growth – am very open to what others in this situation have found helpful. I know your hair loss is not chemo-induced, but I still found it very helpful to read about your journey and your determination to not just accept it. Gives me inspiration – thank you!
Sending prayers for your full recovery!! Thanks for sharing your story with us Sam
I’m so sorry you’re dealing with all this, Jennifer. I have androgenic alopecia and tried ALL the things available that I could afford. Doctor after doctor, treatment after treatment. Nothing helped and I finally couldn’t stand seeing my scalp constantly. So for the last 6 years, I’ve worn wigs when leaving the house. I buzzed what little hair I had and found it very liberating. Learning about wigs and getting used to seeing myself with hair was a journey, but one I am now very comfortable with. I did try a custom topper to begin with but found it pulled on what little hair I had at the time. Plus it was hard to blend in. Wigs are much, much easier, and there are some really lovely styles out there. I get most of mine from Frannie’s Hair online and there are online wig support groups that are very helpful. There is definitely a learning curve involved. I prefer synthetic wigs because they are so easy to style. If you decide to go the topper or wig route, I’d advise you to learn as much as possible before even ordering one. I’d have saved myself a lot of money if I’d done so. I love being able to have great hair in about 2-3 minutes! Any color, any style.
Thank you so much Kim. I was also worried about a topper pulling out what on top. I’m glad you hear your solution works.
Hi jennifer.I am so sorry for your hair loss.There is a soap with caffeine and rosemary without parabens or hemical .The company is called purebloom and this soap helps growth hair and stops the hairloss.Dont take so many medicine.I ll sent you a big hug
I have always had fine thin hair, but started to have real shedding a few years ago. Earlier this year I was fortunate to win another blogger’s give away and my prize was a current body red light hair helmet. I have used it for about 7 or 8 months now. 10 minutes a day. My front hairline and temple area has fully filled in, but not so much on the top of my head. I will continue to use it because it is easy to use, and I can see a very few short hairs trying to grow on the top of my head. I was prescribed drugs by my doctor, but after reading the serious effects, I decided not to use them. If you get a topper, I would love to hear your experience. Oh, I also use the nioxin anti hair fall shampoo and it has helped some.
Thanks for sharing. I know many women love the red light for hair loss. I’m glad it’s helping you
Hi Jennifer-
Have you tried collagen powder?
I did. Not much help. I do eat a lot of collagen though.
I tried a red light cap and rogaine. It has worked for me.
Awesome.
I’m currently 66 and have been on this struggle bus for 5 years. My blood work for ferritin is good and my hypo thyroid controlled in the normal range. I did one year of Nutafol with “progress” photos taken every 4 weeks by my stylist. A year later we decided there was very little “progress” and not worth the expense. My Dermatologist then put me on oral Minoxidyl for a year and at least holding hair loss at a “pause” so we added Spironolactone to my regimen. In the meantime I took a bold step and bought a human hair topper from a wig specialist….now my hair looks fabulous when i choose to wear it. My husband bought me a Theradome red light therapy hat this past summer. Two and a half months of use and i have beautiful fuzzies confirmed by my stylist:) Thank you Jennifer for your honesty. You are beautiful as you are!
That’s amazing Gwen!! Thanks for sharing
Oh Jennifer- I feel your pain. My noticeable thinning started about 2 years ago (I have some years on you – 77 in November). I started with Nutrafol because I didn’t want the liquid Minoxidil to dirty my hair. Big mistake – once I started Minoxidil, regrowth started. My derm’s NP has helped me with this. She started me on Finesteride, then switched me to Dutesteride when shedding didn’t stop. I’m very happy with how it’s going – lots of growth around my face and NP says there’s growth in back. Even hubby says “You have lots more hair.” I can’t imagine getting those shots – you are very brave!
I will ask my doctor about Dutesteride. I’ve never heard about it. Thank you for sharing.
It’s a visual world and how we look is the first impression people have of us. Totally understand fighting for your hair, whatever it takes. We’re all pulling for you.
Thank you Joy!
Hi Jennifer – I’m sorry you are having to deal with hair loss on top of cancer treatments and foot problems. Aging seems to confront us with an increasing array of health issues, major and minor. Thank you for sharing your journey – I admire your grace as you deal with these things.
You’re so right about aging, the challenges keep coming, but I’m lucky to be here to have them.
Been struggling with this since my 20s and I’m now 63. My ferritin is currently at 33 and has always been low. It’s falls in the “normal” range so doctors have always moved on from it. I’m currently trying to get that to about a 50 where they tell me it will help. I’m on oral and liquid minoxidil and Finesterine and am just getting done with a shed. As you know it’s beyond frustrating. I don’t know if I could handle or afford the injections but I’m praying they help for you. I’d like to see how others are handling this. I think your hair looks great by the way!
So sorry to hear about your struggles Jenny. My ferritin is in the normal range but maybe I should get it retested. I’ll check where my numbers are. Thanks for the suggestion. Did your doctor approve the oral with topical minoxidil?
Thank you for sharing this, Jennifer. I’m sure there are thousands of women experiencing the same thing you are, including myself and it is most disheartening. I am much older than you, however I still feel your pain because I have been experiencing hair loss as well. However I cannot afford what you are going through to restore my hair. You are in my thoughts and prayers. I hope the procedure goes well and gives you the success you are anticipating.
Marilyn
Thanks Marylin.
Jennifer, I am so sorry you are going through this again. Sending hugs.
Thank you. There are much more serious struggles as you well know. I hope you’re well.
Hair loss is tough. My own journey with scarring alopecia (some physicians call it FFA, the original diagnosis was lichen planus planaris) began in 2016. “It’s only hair” and “Well, dear, when you get to be a certain age” comments from friends, family and physicians was cold comfort.
My own journey included PRP, Plaquenil, Doxycycline, scalp steroid injections every 6 weeks, scalp steroid cream, jak inhibitors, every oral and OTC hair loss treatment, and still it progressed.
I purchased a ‘fringe’ to clip into the front of my hairline. Until that disappeared, too.
Medical interventions are great, until they’re not. They’re expensive and may come with unintended side effects. Two years ago I decided to stop all injections and shave my head. Now, that was another journey.
Suffice it to say that after lots of wig experimentation I recently purchased an absolutely beautiful custom wig to wear on the days when I want hair, and that I am now comfortable appearing at the gym, grocery store and other non-professional settings with my closely cropped patch of (very thick) hair that looks like a yarmulke. Ironically, the expense of the wig is not more than the medical treatments or a year of disposable synthetic wigs.
This was my solution and may not be for everyone. It was a tough journey to walk alone. If any of you want support, you’re welcome to contact me.
Thank you so much for sharing Dee. You’ve really been through the wringer. Your decision sounds brave and wise. I’ve been seriously been considering a topper.
Regarding a topper…I have anterior alopecia diagnosed in late 2015. My fine hair has receded maybe 2 1/2″ since then. Bangs would work, however, I have a cowlick at each side of the bangs. (It’s always something!) I am beginning to think about a topper but I know nothing about them and don’t know anyone who uses one. Since you have so many followers on this hair loss journey, perhaps a post on toppers might be in order.
Great idea. I will look into one for us.
Thank you for sharing your experience with hair loss.
Like you I have tried many interventions and am never sure what is working. I have been using Topical 5% Rogaine for years and have had excellent results but at the age of 74 am not sure it still helps. I tried oral minoxidil and put up with the initial shedding but had to stop because I had bad side effects such as serious discomfort and bloating. I’m curious if the red-light therapy helmets were ever mentioned in you consultations.
I wish you well with wit the new treatment. Please post future results.
I did try red light but I found the helmet uncomfortable and hard to stick with so they didn’t help me. I have heard with consistent use they can help.
I have had some luck with collagen supplements. Initially for joint pain, but I noticed how fast my hair and nails grow.
I did try that for years but didn’t see enough results to continue.
Oh, Jennifer, I feel your pain. I’m a brunette and refuse to give up coloring my hair, which makes my own female pattern baldness more noticeable. I recently bought a red light therapy band, which I use three times a week, as they recommend. No quick fix, it takes 4-6 months to show results. My stylist took a picture of my head from her vantage point, which I have saved for comparison. The claim is that 93% of women grow their hair back. We shall see! I’m also taking collagen in my coffee every morning. My fingers are crossed. I thank you for sharing your story, as it feels like support from a friend!
Best of luck Tessie!
Thank you for your post and your honesty. It is very helpful. I’ll be interested to follow your progress. Best of luck.
J, I have several friends with hair loss, especially in the front. They now wear a very chic looking wig or wigs. They all worked for years trying every new treatment. Just sharing their experience and solution.
Thanks Cindy. I’m considering one too.
Have you looked into a human hair clip in topper? My friend lost almost all of the hair on the top of her head. She went to a shop that specializes in wigs and toppers. They perfectly matched her hair color and the topper is quick and easy to wear. It looks amazing. Good luck with finding the right option for you.
I haven’t gone that far but I’m
Certainly open to it. I’m just afraid it will pull out even more hair.
There is a head band type thing called a hair topper gripper that you can clip the hair topper clips into to keep from pulling out your hair. I’ve been experimenting with a topper and bought one because I was also concerned about pulling out my hair.
Where did you find yours??
The one time I lost a lot of hair was right after my second child was born. It was very upsetting. As if have aged (76) my hair has thinned out a bit and since I do not color my hair the lighter gray areas can show my pink scalp. But hair loss is very upsetting and causes stress which cause anxiety.
I wondered about coloring my hair but it’s just too fragile.
I am so sorry about your hair loss issues. I told my friend who has cut my hair for 45 years that she can never retire. I have curly white hair and the curl with the right layered cut hides a multitude of sins. Would adding curl help you at all? Layers? My dermatologist told me years go that I can thank my mother for my thinning hair…genetics….but the curl and cut make all the difference.
I do use Velcro rollers but a perm might be the death of my hair so I’m afraid to do it.
Oh Jennifer! I’m so sorry you are dealing with this – its an awful feeling. I was fortunate it was only temporary hair shedding ( but massive) after sepsis recovery. The Isdin vitamin capsules ordered by my Dermatologist taken for 3 months worked for me. I hope your next steps work well for you!
Thanks Paulette. I’m glad that helped you. My finesteride blocks DHT too so I can’t add both.
I am sorry that you are going through all of this. It is very frustrating, and as much as you try not to let it bother you, it can certainly affect self esteem. I know it does mine. I have struggled for years with hair loss, testing shows both genetic and autoimmune causes. Recently I’ve tried the post menopausal blend from the HERS co. I’m in month 6, and finally noticing some improvement. This is an on line prescription which is meant for life, but if it keeps me stable or slightly better I will be happy. There was quite a bit more shedding initially, but now the hair is coming in. Good luck to all the women struggling with this issue. Remember that we are all beautiful in our own ways, despite the state of our hair loss.
I started with that and then my derm prescribed it. It’s great stuff.
Hello! I’m a fellow traveler on the hair loss journey. I have my father’s hair loss pattern, and I’ve been treating my condition with minoxidil for men and use the Revian cap daily. I’ve been doing PRP for about a year now and it has stopped my hair loss, but not added more hair. Like you, I have hair loss in the front of my head, while my hair in the back is very full. I wish I had started PRP earlier. I take photos of my hair and I believe that my hair is thicker. I have curly and fine hair, so I’m using the curls to minimize the frontal hair loss. Best of luck with the treatment and be kind to yourself. You work so hard and I admire your grit.
Thank you sooo much for sharing Hoda. I’m so grateful you did. You’ve given me hope. Xox