Female and losing your hair?

It's not just men who suffer from thinning hair and baldness, it's a problem that's on the rise for women too. Shiny, lustrous hair is what all women strive for. Most women associate a head of glossy locks with their femininity, attractiveness and sense of style. But recent studies show that for many women, thinning hair is a very real problem. Millions of women around the world are now suffering from hair loss and one in three has thinning hair.

But before you dash out and buy a wig, read on to find the best solutions to regain your crowning glory. Overexposure to harsh chemicals and heated styling tools, as well as hair extensions and weaves that have been put in too tightly, can all cause your hair to break and fall out. Other factors can make the hair's growth cycle slow down or even stop. Here's what you should do.

Eat a healthy, balanced diet- Healthy hair comes from a balanced diet that is nutrient-dense. Because hair is mostly protein, this is an important area of your diet to look at, and essential fatty acids, iron, silica, biotin and zinc are also important for growth and preventing brittle, unhealthy looking hair. Worried your diet isn't up to scratch? Then ask your tricologist to prescribe vitamin supplements. Proven to reduce hair loss, each supplement combines all the nutrients vital for a healthy head of hair.

Boost iron levels- The most common trigger of female hair loss can be iron deficiency, as iron in the body binds ferritin a protein involved in the production of hair cells, which guard against shedding. Low iron stores are known to reduce the growing phase of hair, so load up on plenty of dark leafy green vegetables like spinach, kale and broccoli, which can be good sources of iron.

In addition, vitamin C-rich foods, like citrus fruits, kiwi, strawberries and peppers, can help increase the absorption of iron into the body. Iron-rich supplements boost iron reserves and improves hair thickness.Invest in the right haircare Thicken up thinning strands with a redensifying shampoo and conditioner. Massage your scalp to help stimulate hair growth. This will help improve blood flow, nourish hair shafts and strengthen hair roots.

Try hair restoration Designed for women with moderate to severe hair loss, a hair replacement prosthesis is a breathable mesh that's placed between your existing hair and scalp, which contains human hair to totally disguise your hair loss. While not a cure for baldness, it allows you to do sports, swim and to wash, brush and style your hair as you would normally.