Female hair loss that is caused by genetics is referred to as androgenetic alopecia and has its own set of specific characteristics, which are outlined by the Ludwig classification. This classification contains three types of female hair loss.
All types of female hair loss under the Ludwig classification have a relative retention of the follicles around the hairline with a thinning or loss of hair at the crown of the head. Women may or may not experience hair loss on the sides of the head when suffering from androgenetic alopecia.
Type I (mild)
Type I hair loss is minor and can be easily concealed with the proper hair styling or grooming habits. Women with this mild form of hair loss will usually find that their hair is somewhat thin on the top or on the crown of the head. During this stage, hair transplantation is unnecessary.
Type II (moderate)
Type II hair loss is characterised by a significant increase in hair loss at the top of the head. Women in this stage will find that grooming habits alone will not conceal the thinning hair. If the hair on the sides of the head is thick and healthy, hair transplantation could be an option for women in this stage.
Type III (extensive)
Type III hair loss occurs when the hair at the top of the head has a see-through appearance. The scalp will likely be visible when under direct sunlight and efforts to conceal the loss of hair will be unsuccessful. Women in this stage are good candidates for hair transplantation as long as the hair on the sides of the head is not thinning.