What actually works for hair loss for women? We asked an expert.

It's incredibly confronting and stressful when you begin to notice more hair strands in your brush, on your floor, in your bed and chunks of it in your shower drain.

And there are 300 different shampoos, conditioners, treatments, sprays, lotions, supplements and elixirs that all claim to give you "fuller, thicker and shinier locks".

But here's the thing — hair loss in women (whether it be short or long-term) is actually super common. In fact, around 40 to 50 per cent of women in Australia will experience some degree of hair thinning or shedding at some point in their lives. Despite how common it is, it shouldn't be something we just have to accept and move on from. 

Watch: Cassandra Green demonstrates a trick that elevates an ordinary ponytail. Post continues below.

So, is hair loss actually fixable? And if so, how can you stop it or at the very least, reduce the amount of fallout, once and for all? 

We sought help from a leading hair expert — Sydney-based trichologist Anthony Pearce — who specialises in female hair loss and scalp conditions. 

Before we go any further, we must stress that hair loss and thinning is a complex and layered issue — there are so many factors that are involved, and the causes and treatments are different for everyone. It's largely determined by genetics, age, ethnicity, gender, general health and nutrient metabolic status. Then there are things like nutrient deficiencies, hormonal changes, pregnancy and lifestyle habits that can tip the scales even further.

So, just keep in mind that what might work for one person, may not work for someone else. 

How to stop hair loss, according to a trichologist.

1. Check your nutrient levels. 

Many people turn to high-end hair growth products and treatments in hopes of reversing hair loss, but Pearce emphasises that no product will be truly effective unless the body's nutrient levels are balanced.

"You could swim in the best topical products, and they wouldn't make a difference if you're low in iron, vitamin D, iodine and zinc," he explained. 

This is because hair serves as an external reflection of internal health. Changes in hair density or increased shedding are warning signs that something within the body is off balance.

And while pregnancy can trigger hair loss, it shouldn't be brushed off as "normal."

"If you have any hair loss during your pregnancy, it shouldn't happen. It's an alarm bell indicating that you don't have enough nutrients to support two human beings," Pearce said.

2. Frequency of washing your hair. 

There's no doubt you've been left bamboozled with conflicting advice on how often you should actually be washing your hair. Some argue that daily washing keeps the scalp clean, while others insist washing less preserves natural oils. 

So, what's actually correct?

Pearce says it varies for each individual but generally speaking, three to five times a week is the sweet spot. 

"Cleansing the hair and scalp three to five times a week is generally recommended, but if your scalp is really oily or flaky, you may need to wash it more," he said. 

You'll also need to adjust this based on lifestyle and scalp conditions. 

"If you're exercising frequently or sweating more in hot and humid weather, increasing your washing frequency can help maintain scalp health," he added. 

3. Selecting the right hair products. 

Let's set one thing straight: the price of a product doesn't reflect a product's quality. In fact, supermarket buys are just as good as luxurious products only stocked at salons — as long as they contain the right ingredients. 

"I actually don't subscribe to the idea that you can only buy salon products," Pearce said. 

For example, Pearce noted that mainstream brands like Pantene offer scientifically-backed formulations containing amino acids, niacinamide, biotin and caffeine — essential ingredients that promote healthy hair.

That said, if you have conditions like eczema, psoriasis, or seborrhoeic dermatitis, a medicated shampoo with ketoconazole may be your best bet. 

Additionally, he also recommends the shampoos, conditioners and serums from Nioxin to help with general hair loss. The extensive range, which is designed to stimulate healthy hair growth, can be found at online stockists including Adore Beauty and Oz Hair and Beauty. 

4. Consider laser light therapy. 

If you're after something beyond your usual haircare routine, laser light therapy might be worth considering. More specifically, low-level laser light therapy in the red spectrum, which Pearce says can help with hair regrowth — especially for postpartum hair loss.

"Laser therapy, when done right, is a great supplementary treatment," said Pearce.

The treatment works by increasing blood flow to the scalp and reducing inflammation, both of which are essential for hair and scalp health. However, Pearce cautions that it's not suitable for everyone.

"It always needs to be accompanied by an assessment of a patient's pathology," he warned.

For example, it's a no-go for anyone recovering from brain surgery or a tumour, as it stimulates fast-growing cells — something you don't want in that situation.

Also, beware of commercial clinics offering laser therapy as a "cash cow," charging high fees without properly assessing whether it's the right treatment for you.

5. Be mindful of styling products.

You've probably wondered if your styling products are causing fallout. But is this a myth or does it hold truth?

Well, according to Pearce, you don't need to ditch your styling products completely, but you do need to be mindful of how you're using them. Overusing products or not washing them out properly can cause scalp irritation and even lead to "hair casts," which look like lice nits. No, thanks. 

And styling products should go on your hair and not your scalp. Let me repeat that: apply styling products on your hair, NOT your scalp.  

6. Patience is key. 

As much as you want to believe those products that claim fuller hair in less than a week, unfortunately, that's just good marketing. 

"Your hair is always three to four months behind what you do, so you've just got to be patient and give it time," Pearce explained. "Chopping and changing treatments every other day won't help."

Instead, focus on good nutrition, a solid hair care routine and science-backed treatments to get your hair back on track.

7. Seek professional guidance. 

If your hair loss is stressing you out, you shouldn't hesitate to see a professional. They will be able to provide you with a structured and personalised approach.

"If they're going to get any kind of results, it has to be done in a step-by-step process, followed by appropriate treatment," said Pearce.

So, take a deep breath — you're not alone in this, and there are plenty of options to help you regain confidence in your hair. Just be patient, stay consistent and most importantly, look after yourself from the inside out.

Are you suffering from hair loss? What treatments have worked for you? Share your experience in the comment section below.

Feature image: Getty.