Are Brunettes More Likely To Suffer Hair Loss?

Before reaching the age of 50, 40% of women will experience hair loss, according to a 2015 study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology. In fact, Harvard Health Publishing notes that, following menopause, up to two-thirds of women can experience thinning. While there can be a wide range of causes for female hair loss, including different medications, and medical conditions, the color of your hair could be working against you. 

The amount of hair follicles on a person's head can vary with hair color (via Healthline). For example, blondes tend to have around 140,000 follicles, while brunettes have about 100,000. Redheads have the least number of follicles, with 90,000. However, despite the fewer follicles possessed by redheads, over half of the 30 million women in the U.S. that suffer from hair loss are brunettes, as per Women's Health. This could be due to the fact that brown hair tends to be thicker and more coarse, leading to fewer strands being produced by the body. As a result, when brunette follicles fall out, bald patches tend to be more apparent.  

Women's choice of hairstyles may also be a factor in hair loss, according to the American Academy of Dermatology Association. Ponytails pulled too tight, as well as hairstyles such as cornrows, weaves, or dreadlocks can pull on the roots, leading to a condition known as traction alopecia. This can also be caused by wearing rollers to bed at night. Women with these types of hairstyles who experience pain, stinging, or crusts on the scalp should change their hair for a time until the symptoms subside.

In addition, there are a number of conditions that can cause a woman to lose her hair. These can include pregnancy, anemia, menopause, and certain skin conditions such as psoriasis (via WebMD). In addition, external triggers, such as stress can lead to a woman's hair falling out. According to Cleveland Clinic, this condition is known as telogen effluvium, and it tends to resolve itself within six months. 

While it's not possible to prevent hair loss due to certain conditions, such as aging or genetics, there are steps one can take to keep your hair healthy. It's advisable to avoid certain hair products and hairstyles that could be doing damage. In addition, stopping smoking is also advisable. After all, the experts at Healthline note that cigarettes can disrupt the flood of blood to the hair follicles and decreases the production of oil, making the hair drier and more brittle. 

Luckily, eating a healthy diet is a simple way to stimulate hair growth and strength. Eggs are rich in biotin and protein, both of which help hair to grow (via Healthline). Berries, which are rife with vitamins and antioxidants, are also a good staple to add to the diet. Spinach and leafy greens, nuts, and healthy fats, such as salmon and avocado are also excellent ways of keeping the hair, and the body, strong. Whether your blonde, brunette, or redhead, treating your hair as well as you can will go a long way towards keeping more of it on your head for longer.