A new study from Hers has revealed an interesting and unexpected trend: women across four generations—Gen Z, Millennials, Gen X, and Baby Boomers—report more hair thinning and loss than their male counterparts. The findings challenge the conventional perception that men experience more hair loss, and they stand in stark contrast to how the hair loss industry has traditionally focused its efforts, with men accounting for approximately 61.1% of the global market for hair growth supplements and treatments.
Women Experience More Hair Thinning and Loss
While male pattern baldness affects roughly 50% of men by age 50, compared to about 40% of women with female pattern hair loss, the Hers study found that women are reporting more hair loss and thinning at every age. Nearly one-quarter (23%) of women aged 18 to 65 say their hair has gotten thinner, compared to 18% of men. Furthermore, 18% of women report experiencing hair loss, while 16.5% of men report the same.
One possible explanation for this discrepancy could be that women in the study are experiencing various types of hair loss beyond just female pattern baldness. Women were also found to be 1.5 times more likely to say their hair is thinning compared to men—23% versus 16%.
Stress and Its Link to Hair Loss
One notable factor that may contribute to this difference is stress. According to the survey, stress levels were the only significant health difference between women and men. While both genders reported similar experiences in sexual health, weight, and other areas, women were far more likely to report feeling stressed. Over the past five years, 28% of women reported experiencing more stress, anxiety, and burnout compared to just 19.5% of men.
While stress and hair loss aren’t necessarily directly linked, research suggests that stress can exacerbate certain types of hair loss. One such condition is telogen effluvium, a form of temporary hair shedding caused by stress. Dr. Mike Bohl, Director of Medical Content at Hers, explains that during telogen effluvium, a large number of hair follicles prematurely enter the resting phase, leading to significant hair shedding. “This condition can last for a few months and is usually temporary,” Dr. Bohl notes.
Interestingly, the higher levels of stress reported by women in the study were consistent across all age groups. For example, 17% of Gen Z women report more stress compared to 14% of men in the same generation, while 33% of Gen X and Boomer women report higher stress levels compared to 27% of men.
Hair Loss Solutions for Women
The good news for women experiencing stress-induced hair loss is that it’s typically not permanent. Many women are taking proactive steps to address their hair thinning. In fact, 69% of women surveyed have either tried hair growth supplements (36%) or are open to trying them (33%). Similarly, 58% of women have either tried hair growth medications (27%) or are open to trying them (31%).
Interestingly, younger women are more likely to try prescription hair loss treatments compared to their older counterparts. A significant 61% of Gen Z women and 66% of Millennial women have tried or are open to trying hair growth medications, compared to just 48% of Gen X and Boomer women.
Tips for Managing Stress-Induced Hair Loss
If you suspect that stress is contributing to your hair loss, here are some actionable steps you can take to promote regrowth and prevent further shedding:
Consult a Healthcare Provider
Stress can be one of many contributors to hair loss. To properly manage your hair thinning, it’s essential to consult a healthcare provider who can help determine the root cause and offer personalized advice.
Make Lifestyle Changes
Addressing hair loss often involves making lifestyle changes. If stress is a significant factor, a healthcare provider might recommend stress-reducing strategies, such as better sleep hygiene, regular exercise, and relaxation techniques. Additionally, dietary changes, like taking supplements to address any vitamin deficiencies, could also help.
Consider Medication
For some, lifestyle changes may not be enough. Medications like Minoxidil can help stimulate hair regrowth. As with any medication, it’s important to discuss potential side effects and find a treatment plan that works for you.
Explore Different Hair Styling Options
Hair regrowth takes time. In the interim, try products that add volume or explore new hairstyles to make your hair appear fuller.
Study Methodology
This study is based on a 7,100-person online survey conducted in January 2025, which included respondents from 50 U.S. states and 50 metropolitan areas. The survey analyzed data from multiple demographic groups, including age, gender, race, sexual orientation, and lifestyle preferences.
Conclusion
While hair loss affects both men and women, the Hers study highlights a growing trend among women, particularly when it comes to stress-related hair loss. With more women acknowledging their hair thinning and loss, many are turning to effective solutions such as supplements, medications, and lifestyle changes. As awareness continues to grow, addressing the underlying causes—stress in particular—could offer a path to healthier hair for millions of women.
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