Not Just Age: The Real Reasons Behind Mid-30s Hair Loss in Women

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Key Takeaways

There are many reasons other than aging that may cause women to experience hair loss in their mid-thirties. Some of these are stress, lifestyle, genetics, hair care, and hormonal changes.
By identifying possible triggers and taking control early, you can curb further damage.
Topical treatments, oral medications, laser therapy, clinically based treatments, and lifestyle adjustments are some options for slowing, stopping, or reversing hair loss.

Hair loss is an emotional and frustrating experience for many women in their thirties. By understanding the underlying causes, you can explore appropriate treatments early enough before hair loss worsens or becomes permanent.

Many believe that hair loss is just a natural part of aging, and while that’s true, some deeper issues may be to blame for your hair thinning and falling out in your 30s. Read on to discover the reasons for hair loss in women in their 30s and available treatments.

What Causes Mid-30s Hair Loss in Women?

Genetics

You’re at a higher risk of early hair loss if female pattern baldness (androgenetic alopecia) runs in your family. Studies show that 12% of women first develop female pattern hair loss (FPHL) by age 29, and 25% by age 49. FPHL thins out hair in a patterned manner, exposing more scalp around the top or crown area.

Hormonal Shifts and Imbalances

Estrogen plays a key role in maintaining hair follicles during the growth phase. Factors such as pregnancy, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), childbirth, early menopause, and other hormonal imbalances can lead to a decrease in estrogen levels. This decline may increase levels of androgens (male hormones), which can cause hair loss in women in their 30s.

Medical Factors

Autoimmune diseases, including alopecia areata, lupus, and thyroid disorders, as well as conditions like anemia and infections of the skin and scalp, can negatively impact hair follicles and hinder hair growth.

In women in their mid-30s, hair loss may also occur as a side effect of certain medications. These can include treatments for depression, anxiety, and high blood pressure, as well as contraceptives, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.

Nutrition and Dieting

Hair needs vital nutrients, including zinc, iron, vitamins, proteins, minerals, biotin, and omega-3 fatty acids to grow and stay healthy. Without enough nutrients, hair becomes weak. This may cause hair loss in women in their mid-30s. Highly restrictive diets and sudden or extreme weight loss can deprive your hair of vital nutrients.

Stress and Trauma

Major emotional stress disturbs the hair growth cycle and is one of the primary causes of telogen effluvium, a temporary hair loss. During stress, more-than-normal hair follicles move from the growing state to the resting state and cause excessive shedding.

Physical trauma and injuries such as burns, as well as coping by pulling hair (trichotillomania), are other reasons for hair loss in women in their 30s.

Lifestyle Factors

Certain lifestyle habits, like smoking and a sedentary lifestyle, can reduce blood flow to hair follicles and lead to hair loss in women in their mid-30s. Studies indicate that hair loss is more common in smokers compared to non-smokers.

Improper Hair Care

Excessive use of heat treatments, including blow dryers and curlers, chemical treatments like bleaching, perms, and coloring, and products with sulfates, parabens, phthalates, and other harsh chemicals are other reasons for hair loss in women in their 30s.

Another significant factor is traction alopecia, which results from tight hairstyles like cornrows, braids, and ponytails. Other harmful hair care practices include brushing wet hair, product buildup, overwashing, and allowing the hair to become overly dry.

How Can You Treat Mid-30s Hair Loss?

Some treatments women can explore to combat hair loss include:

Minoxidil: A leading FDA-approved topical treatment for female pattern baldness that helps with hair growth, thickness, and density.
Prescription Medications: This includes Finasteride and Spironolactone, which are FDA-approved oral medications for general hair loss.
Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT): Available as in-office treatments and also at-home devices such as laser combs and laser hair caps for hair loss; employs red light to stimulate hair regrowth.
Clinical-Based Treatments: Includes platelet-rich plasma (PRP), hair transplant surgery, mesotherapy, and hormone replacement therapy (HRT).

Making lifestyle adjustments can significantly help in treating hair loss. These changes not only support overall hair health but also enhance the effectiveness of treatments. Consider maintaining a balanced diet, managing stress, engaging in regular physical activity, and practicing healthy hair care routines.

Additionally, it’s important to consult your doctor to address any underlying medical issues. They can review any medications that may be triggering hair loss, assess your nutrient and hormone levels, and prescribe any necessary supplements.

Take Charge of Your Hair Health

Hair loss may be a natural part of aging, but there are many other reasons for hair loss in women in their 30s, including genetics, hormonal factors, lifestyle, medical conditions, nutrition, and improper hair care. By understanding potential triggers and seeking appropriate treatment early, you can prevent further hair loss and improve your hair health and confidence.

By Tess DiNapoli
who is an artist, freelance writer, and content strategist. She has a passion for yoga and often writes about health and wellness, but also enjoys covering the fashion industry and world of fitness.

Member since March, 2025
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