Our trip to France, Summer 2016, is over and a lot has been happening. I’ve got reviews and musings and news to write about.
Another hair post.
Um. I don’t quite know what the reason is, but I’ve been losing more and more hair. The bald spots are larger and creeping from the back of my head to the front.
Ugh. I can’t believe I’m actually posting this. But this is me! This is my hair before dying and adding products to hide the loss! Don’t judge. Don’t hate me because I’m beautiful either!
It isn’t my thyroid. It isn’t a hormonal thing. It just is. And I’m not the only woman suffering from this uncommonly common issue of hair loss.
The thing is—nobody really talks about it. And I don’t know if older women bloggers have this issue because I’ve never seen this mentioned in-depth in any of their blogs.
Am I the only blogger stupid enough to expose myself like this? I sure hope not!
I dyed my hair last weekend because, not only did the roots need touching up but the dark dye helps to disguise the issue somewhat.
I’m not kidding. This is AFTER I dyed my hair, but compared to the pic on top. A bit of baldy is covered.
Although my Toppik is still working, I’m using more and more of it these days. That means spending more and more money. Luckily the hair that I still have is thick and coarse.
And I’m frustrated. When we were away and at the pool, you have NO idea how badly I wanted to dive into the water from the top of the diving board. If I had a full head of hair, I would have been diving all day. I was so jealous of all those jumping into the water from high above!
When we were at the beach, I was lucky that I was able to swim out far into the water and not manage to get my hair wet. Those little tiny French waves also helped. The harsh and huge waves here in the Atlantic Ocean are a no-no- for my hair.
I’m also obsessed with other women’s hair. I’m constantly studying the backs of their heads to see if I can find tell-tale signs of loss.
And although I have a few wigs, I hesitate to wear them on a regular basis because my head gets hot. The wigs move around. Some of them look a bit wiggy in the front.
It’s hard to come to terms with this and even harder to show photos as I’ve done. But—I’ve always been up front and honest with you. Honesty and being real are important to me. And hopefully, if I can make just one of my reader friends say “Wow. I’m going through that too”. “I thought I was the only one” and feel a bit better, then I’ve done my job. I gotta keep it real!
I don’t know which is more frustrating. The fact that the hair on top of my head is falling out while I notice hairs on my chin growing like little dark weeds. Ugh!
Anyway, I have been very fortunate to have another solution to my issue.
Madison, at Irresistible Me Clip-in hair extensions sent me a beautiful gift. Hair Extensions. And I received them a couple of days after our return from France.
The packaging alone is incredible. No cutting back on making sure your hair is being taken care of here!
I took the sample right out of the little package and tried my new hair on…
The sample. Left, my hair is full of Toppik, but you CAN see the bald on my head. Right, the small sample covered my spot. This is good. Oh. This is VERY good!
I’ll tell you—these extensions are fantastic and I’ve been wearing a couple of them on a daily basis. The great thing is that they blend so well that none of my co-workers were able to tell I had any bit of fake hair on my head.
Oh. And I also want to tell you that you know full well I won’t praise anything I receive that doesn’t live up to my expectations.
These extensions from Irresistible Me are fantastic and completely lived up to the highest expectations!!!!
Hair extensions can be a confidence builder for older women who are experiencing hair loss or thinning hair and don’t want to or don’t have to go full-on wig yet. Actually, they are more than a “beauty” item. They are little wonders of self-esteem.
After corresponding which weight and which length would be the best for me, Madison suggested the Silky Touch Remy hair, 200G, 16″ extensions. The color sent to me was Jet Black. And the set contained ten extensions of various widths.
The price point for these extensions varies with width and length–but they are incredibly affordable and during sales, the price point is even better!
So let’s start at the beginning.
The extensions were sent via FedEx when we were away. And I have to say there were no issues with delivery. I went on the FedEx website to “delay” the delivery until we arrived back home. I received them on Tuesday, July 5th!
The Packaging: is stellar. The extensions come in a box. This box is heavy and sturdy and will hold up forever.
The opened box was pictured a few paragraphs above. This is the box closed. The cardboard is heavy and the quality of the box is very sturdy and good
This photo stinks but this is the edge of the box. The bottom of the box has a slit so that the top edge of the box closes shut very securely. This is great for travel and storage at home.
Inside this box, the extensions are packaged in a “double” two-compartment zippered plastic bag. Again, the packaging is incredibly sturdy.
The extensions come in a two-compartment plastic bag…
In the smaller of the two compartments is a sample of the extensions. Instructions state to open this compartment first. The sample extension is for you to feel and to see. This way you can see if the color matches your hair and see if the length and any other factors you are seeking fit your needs or wants.
The instructions for the smaller of the two compartments. This is foolproof and kudos to Irresistible Me for being so concise and direct!
The seal which is placed on top of the zippered compartments.
As long as the larger compartment is untouched and unopened, you can either send the extensions back or move forward to open the remaining extensions.
I have to tell you, that sample was enough for me to make my judgement! I was 100% pleased.
As an aside, I took each of the extensions, placed them in plastic, zippered bags and labeled how many clips was on each extension. It just makes it easier for lazy people like me. They all fit perfectly into the box too!
The set of extensions also comes with extra clips.
But, how would I fare with the rest of the extensions? Come and see!
The extensions: Take a look at the various extensions. They are very well-constructed. The wefts are super-strong and the clips are sewn in well enough so that they aren’t going anywhere except in your hair!
I measured the extension for you. I’m so in love with the quality of the hair.
The wefts are incredibly strong and the clips are sewn in so tightly that they won’t be going anywhere except where they need to go!
The color was spot on as was the natural wave..
Again, the quality is outstanding.
The clips are also very easy to snap open and shut. They really hold on to the hair that you clip them onto and stay put. All day.
And when you unclip the extensions, you don’t take your natural hair with them. I’m probably a bit gentler in unclipping because I don’t have a lot of hair in spots. But, I’m still able to keep these babies in my hair.
The only items are needed to help put the extensions in are a comb with a long handle to separate your natural hair evenly and a twirly-do (Don’t ask. It’s what my sister Theresa called hair ties when we were kids—the name stuck) to keep hair out of the way while clipping the extensions in.
The only tools needed are these and your hands.
OK. This is my hair earlier today. I have Toppik residue, but since I only wash my hair once a week….You can still see the spots where I have no hair.
OK. So this is me without the extensions. My hair is still thick, but it is thinning on the top and at the back. (Do you like my lipgloss? I put it on especially for you!) I’m still cross-eyed..
I first clipped the four-clip extension in the back of my head below the crown. This was for added volume more than length. I covered the top of the extension with my natural hair then proceeded to place another three-clip extension on top of that.
See where I added the four-clip extension? Right under my royal baldness. If you look closely, you can see the weft which I covered up..
Now I added the second extension….
Look! All covered up!
The back of my head looks great. Where’s the bald??
Then, I placed a one-clip extension on each side of the front of my hair where I’m getting a bit of a receding hairline.
Ohhhh…my hairline is receding..
No problem. I got ya covered!
Other side. Can’t tell I have the little one-clip extensions in. Can ya?
Just for “ha-ha’s”, I decided to place a two-clip extension in the front top of my crown. As you can see, the weft is visible. Had my hair been thicker, I would have been able to hide it. However, since my hair is thinning, it’s best to use a headband to cover.
I tried an extension in the very front but the weft was too obvious. So I covered with a headband.
I cannot say enough about these extensions. The Silky Touch Remy human hair extensions blended so well with my own hair. The texture of the human hair also blended in remarkably well with my coarse hair. The length was perfect and the volume added was subtle yet my hair looked thicker.
And here I am with the four extensions (I took the top front one out). My hair looks a hint thicker and the top of my head doesn’t look as thin as it really is. I’m very happy…
Is this not amazing at how NATURAL these extensions are? They truly are irresistible! Hey younger women–you got some serious competition with this older lady!
For my particular thinning/loss issue, the two-clip and one-clip extensions were the perfect solution for every day wear. In fact, on a couple of instances, they blended in so well that I forgot I had them in and slept with them and wore them the next day! I know. But that is actually a testament as to how wonderful these extensions are.
My only bit of “constructive criticism” is that if you need to add an extension to the top front of your crown for thinning or loss, the weft is really thick and can only be hidden by a headband. WAIT!!!! Special Announcement! I swear, between the time that I received the extensions to now, the company came out with a tape-in extension that is perfect for thinning hair. OMG! Bonaparte presently has me on a “no-buy”. How can I order these without him knowing or seeing a bill? I’ll have to ask Santa Claus to bring these to me! I’m really excited about these tape-ins!
My other constructive criticism would be to incorporate older women into the Irresistible Me website. These extensions, along with the other hair products can work wonders for older women. Please don’t dismiss us the way other companies do—I’m begging you! The older woman is a great demographic! (I’m now coveting the ponytail too. This old lady needs to get that!)
Oh..and to prove the thickness of the extensions, the photo on the left is my hair piled up in a twirly-do without the extensions. The photo on the right shows my hair with extensions piled on top of my head in a twirly-do! Look how thick!
Jeez. It’s bad enough I post pics of my baldness but this double chin is the limit. Do any of you know of a plastic surgeon who can take away my saggy chin? Anyway, here’s a pic of the extensions wrapped in a twirly-do from the side. Looks like my own hair!
That’s the only criticism I can think of. These extensions are perfect. I wish I worked for Irresistible Me—their product is irresistible! What more can I say??
You know, ageing is tough sometimes. Not only do we have to deal with changes in our skin like wrinkles and that crepe paper look, but many of us lose that luxurious head of hair that we had in our youth and up to our forties.
And there really aren’t a lot of solutions. Many companies try to take advantage by promoting “hair growth” solutions that simply do not work for most people.
I can’t tell you how many times I’ve gotten to the point of tears because I can’t go swimming anymore. Or because I see my hair loss getting worse and there is nothing that’ll bring my hair back. And let’s not even mention Bonaparte’s constant fussing with my hair to cover my “spots”. At least he fusses over me with love!
I’m self-conscious. My self-esteem drops. I don’t feel good about my looks. But these extensions add that extra “oomph” to make me feel better. And the fact that they now have tape-in extensions puts me over the moon with joy!
So thank you Madison. Thanks to you and Irresistible Me, I’m feeling a bit more irresistible!
I even managed to put a full face of make up on to match my irresistible hair! Not bad for 61–right?
Really ladies. If you have any questions, please please comment. It would be great to get a conversation going about this issue. I want to know who else is having this issue of thinning hair/loss?
Today’ song can only be Mr. Robert Palmer. Simply Irresistible!
I want to start by saying you look fabulous and those extensions look so very natural! (And quit with the “double chin” stuff, silly!) While I did notice my hair line at the forehead and temples getting a bit thinner when I began perimenopause, I have been fortunate to not have too much thinning overall. May I assume that you have already seen a dermatologist about your hair issue? That is a lot of thinning and if it’s suddenly increasing, there has to be something going on—hormonally maybe? Stress? Perhaps the retail job is worse for you than you even realized? It is difficult getting older, especially for women, since our greatest attribute (according to our warped society) seems to be how well we can remain untouched by Life and remain looking 20 for as long as possible. Honestly, Catherine, I sometimes think a woman could come up with the cure for AIDS and cancer combined and all they’d be saying about her is, “You’d think if she’s smart enough to do that, she’d be able to cover up those crow’s feet. And OMG, did you see her OUTFIT??? WTF!!” Nothing like being a woman! XOXOXOXO
Hi Terri Lee. OMG! How true! Look at the shit that Hillary Clinton goes through with snarky comments about the pant suits she wears. She looks great!!!! WTF??
I’ve seen my dermatologist many times. In fact, I’ve seen three derms and they are dismissive. I’ve had blood work because I SWEAR it is my thyroid and everything comes up in the negative. I SWEAR I have thyroid issues! Stress is always a factor but at least I have a solution to this “issue” for now!
The extensions are unbelievably natural looking!!! Thanks for your input. I really am happy to hear from you! XOXOXOXO!!!
Oh, you got that right! You hit the nail on the head regarding Hillary! She dresses for business and to get things done. She doesn’t have time nor the inclination, I’m sure, to be worrying about and tugging on uncomfortable attire. However, I would bet you that even if she dressed in flowing, feminine frocks, she’d be accused of not taking her role seriously enough or that she spends too much time and money on clothing, so how well would she be able to run our country? Women cannot win. Between the ageism and the sexism out there, it’s a wonder we’ve gotten anywhere at all!
After reading all the comments under your post, I was dumbfounded at how all of you have been treated by doctors. Dismissed and spoken to in condescending fashion. Hair loss IS a huge deal for women, more so than men. It bothers men, yes, but not to the extent it does a female. Bald men are more acceptable. They’re expected to lose their hair. For women, from childhood on, our hair is our identity and to lose it in large quantities is not only scary, it destroys your self-esteem. Everything else that’s happening to us as we age is bad enough, do we really need that crap, too?
Catherine, I think you are definitely on to something with the thyroid condition. Do not give up or exhaust all avenues until you find a doctor to help you and take you seriously, as you deserve. If it is thyroid, it CAN grow back with proper medication! You are in my heart and prayers and I send you all my best wishes! XOXOXOXO!!!!
Thanks Florida. *Sigh* I’m upset at the way women are dismissed over this condition as well. What’s with the thyroidism anyway? Doctors don’t seem to like any mention of “Hey, I think I may have a thyroid issue”. I’m so glad that you are being supportive and can “get” my issue and why it bugs me.
Oh. Hillary will never get a break with our public. The idiots who make snarky remarks about her attire never say anything about Trump’s mail order wife’s clothing. Why is that? Oh don’t get me started because more of my hair will fall out–LOL!!! Seriously. Thank you for your comments and your understanding!! XOXOXOXO!!!
Catherine, You are the baddest baddass I know! It takes a lot of courage to post those pictures and I salute your bravery. I’m sure this will resonate with a lot of women. The extensions look fantastic and you look beautiful. Also, how many 61 yr olds can rock a bikini like you do? Not many I tell you.
Bravo!
Hi Martha. Yeah. I like that–I AM a baddass!! Thank you! But seriously–it took every ounce of courage to post those pics but it needed to be done. I only WISH I had seen other pics of women in the same sitch as me. Oh well, it is what it is–right? I hope it does resonate with a lot of women though!
Thank you for your support. It means a lot to me! XOXOXO!!!
I have very thin hair as well very very thin I have been using this special shampoo and rogaine for five months and it does seem stable and fuller. I have had three MOHS on the top of my head – close to 30 staples so that just made it more of a challenge . Yesterday my friend who does my hair showed me some new extensions that attach to your hair they were human hair and fairly expensive but would stay in several months.
It is a challenge ….. For sure
Thank you for the brave photos and information .
Cheers
XO
Jane
Hi Jane. Oh God. I can only imagine–three MOHS. I had one and it was bad enough. Hmmm..are you going to try the extensions? The expensive price would be a concern for me. I often wonder if the price is hiked up because it is almost a necessity. I don’t like people being taken advantage of…it is a challenge for sure. Thanks for commenting Jane!! XOXOXOXOXO!!!!
Omg. Fantastic! You look fantastic. I have thinning hair but hasn’t caused any problems as yet. HOWEVER when I was in my mid 40s I lost my hair. Um hum. All my hair. Slowly. The most humbling experience. Losing it and not being ill did not put it in the proper perspective. It was not a matter of my hair or my life. Just my hair. Just vanity. But it was absolutely devasting to me. I got a wig of course. A good human hair wig from a place that made them for chemo patients. I have straight hair, wear it in a bob, mid length, a natural center part. Turns out that’s the most difficult hair do to do in a wig due to the long center part. Therefore I most often wore some kind of headband too. Because of the pressure of the wig and the headband I ate Tylenol all day for weeks. I could not swim that summer. I cancelled a cruise we had planned because of wind on a cruise ship. And during the summer months sweat like some kind of farm animal. Gave up tennis for that year. “They” finally determined it was either stress or a toxic substance that had passed thru my body. If it was something toxic it could have been a year prior to the hair falling out. They also couldn’t tell me if it would grow back, if so what percentage, or when. Took about 18 months to get me out of the wig and back on the street. And I got it all back. Don’t mean to make your post all about me me me. Just my way of getting across I really, really understand. Those extensions are genius!
Jean
“Losing it and not being ill did not put it in the proper perspective. It was not a matter of my hair or my life. Just my hair. Just vanity. But it was absolutely devasting to me. ”
Those words made me cry. And although it is vanity there is nothing wrong with that. A few of the doctors I went to with this hair issue made me feel like the biggest piece of garbage simply because I wasn’t sick. Trust and believe me when I tell you that I feel your pain. I know exactly what you are talking about. EXACTLY!!
You are lucky that your hair grew back. For me, it’s been an ongoing issue for about ten years now. I’m hoping my hair DOES grow back but as long as I don’t lose any more–I’m ok. Big hugs to you. And don’t feel bad because you wrote about YOU. That’s what I want in the comments. I don’t want fangirl. I want true and honest comments. Thank you so very much for keepin’ it real girlfriend! XOXOXOXO!!!
Love the look! But I’m afraid I’m too spastic to get them in correctly and no hair ever matches my color! They work perfectly for your beautiful hair!! I’d love to try them to add length just for shits and giggles!!
Thanks Anne. Trust me, you are NOT too spastic. I think you should try some extensions just for the heck of it! XOXOXOXO!!!
Great post
Hi Itsa!!! Thank you so much–I’m happy that you enjoyed this truthful post! XOXOXOXO!!!
Those extensions are amazing and wow have you got a tiny waist or what?! Seriously you look great – but you ALWAYS look great. At the moment, I am nursing a giant (and I mean giant) spot near my upper lip, in fact I think the spot may get bigger than my head then I’ll have quite a look going on. As for hair – we get so hung up, hair thinning is normal as we age to some extent and as we lose pigment that also doesn’t exactly help (no way am I giving up the hair dye – no way), sadly for someone like me with very very fine hair it looks terrible. The hairdresser tells me I have a lot of hair – but it is extremely fine (think dandelion floss, I hate it) and so as it is also wavy/curly-ish I look like Einstein with a bad hair day – it sticks out, it frizzes, it ….. So any product that helps the self-esteem is great. 61 – amazing, I am 52 and in the first of the hot flushes with peri-menopause, oh crumbs am I feeling a wreck (and just a bit sorry for my wee chubby self tonight)!
Hi Juliet. Oh. No. My waist is not tiny. It’s the angle that I took the pic. I got on the scale this morning and I have to tell you. I need to lose twenty pounds. Oh..Stop! I’m sure your hair looks fine. Look–I have a ton of frizz but I don’t care anymore. It used to bother me more when my hair was bobbed, nowadays I just pile it on top of my head.
Take care of that damned spot my darlin’! XOXOXOXO!!!
Awww thank you, I think the spot might be subsiding – but for a while there I was starting to wonder if it got any bigger should I give it a name and introduce it to everybody as my second head
Hi Catherine,
Thank you for the post. Everthing you have said and did regarding hair loss, ditto. My thin spots look just like yours, however my remaining hair is so thin and fragile, adding extensions would do more harm than good. I spent/lost time seeing doctors and buying products. I, too, analyze every woman ‘s hair. I get upset when i see old pictures of myself and the nice hair i use to have. I am 59 years old, and the loss started about 8 years ago.
The sensible side of me knows that if that is the worst I have to complain about, i should be extremely grateful.
I have come to terms with it, found products that help, my hairdresser is an angel and works with what I got. Still feel doctors are missing something, but i had to stop obsessing and move on. My motto at this point is “a bad hair day is better than a bald hair day”. Still thinking abou a wig, just not there yet.
So glad you had a wonderful vaction. Welcome home. Thank you again for sharing.
No June. Thank YOU for sharing! And I need to take YOUR advice and move on a bit. It’s hard. But like you, I SWEAR the doctors are missing something. I don’t think it is something awful, but I think it is something! Even our timeline is about the same!
It’s good to be home and conversing with you! XOXOXOX!!!
Hi Catherine,
Just a follow-up, dont know about you, but i can count on both hands missed and wrong diagnosis on myself and family members over the years. Worst being told i could never have children. That was back in 1985…before internet. I went to the library and looked it up. Dr. Jackass screwed up reading the blood tests. I am the proud mom of 2 wonderful sons. So, point is, that is why i believe doctors are missing somthing on this hair loss thing.
Xoxo right back to ya!
Thanks June. I’m going to ask to be re-tested on the blood work for my thyroid! XOXOXO!!!
I’m 55 and have a lot of hair thinning right behind my hairline on top of my head. My doctors tell me “It’s part of the aging process ” because Thyroid tests were negative. For now I’m using Toppik and Color Wow, which work ok but it’s still upsetting. I often wonder if women in other countries have this problem also, or are their doctors less dismissive?? This is a medical problem, not a cosmetic problem, and if they can’t find the cause then hair extensions, wigs and cover-up products should be covered by insurance IMO. Anyway, thanks for this corageous post, and you look fantastic!!
Hi Margaret. I tried to purchase a hair piece some time ago and medical insurance wouldn’t cover it. It sucks all the way around and is a vicious cycle. And I’m tired of dishonesty. I see models with amazing heads of hair and most of it is fake. I see “anti-aging” shampoos and conditioners and the models are younger. Yet nobody takes female hair loss into consideration. “It’s part of the ageing process” seems to be the usual diagnosis. Argggggggggggg!!! Thanks so much for your candor and sharing ! XOXOXOXO!!!
Am I dumb? I thought everyone over 50 had hair loss. o_O I’m starting to look like my dad! You look really great with them in. But then I think you always look classic. I’m jealous!
LOL–Lady Calen. Apparently only a choice few of us–like those who are in our little circle of friends are familiar with this issue. I’m so glad to see the many responses–the empathetic ones and the ones who suffer from the same issue. We are all in this together. No smoke and mirrors here! Thank you for your compliments!!! XOXOXOXO!!!
I hear Rogaine helps with re growth and I am thinking of trying it – at 75 my hair is thin and I keep it very short, wash it every 4 days or so, and massage my scalp. I don’t have the bald spots but I gave almost no eyebrows or eyelashes at thus stage. It is a concern! Thanks for bringing this issue out in your blog.
Hi Olwyn. Here’s the thing with Rogaine. It only helps with regrowth if you haven’t lost the hair yet. You need to have something to “hold onto” so to speak. In addition, I swear the doctors are getting a kickback for both prescribing and recommending it. I tried it a long time ago. It did nothing!
Thank you so very much for your comments! I’m incredibly happy to see so many women engaging in this conversation! XOXOXOXO!!!
I think everyone who has some hair loss ought to give minoxidil (generic Rogaine ) a try. Give it four months, then judge the effectiveness. You really can’t tell much before then. And there is no way to predict who will respond and who won’t. So, don’t just dismiss it because it didn’t work for you. BTW, those extensions look GREAT!
Catherine, I absolutely love that you are so brave- especially with such close up pictures!! I happen to think you look marvelous darlin!! But, I do know about hair loss! I always had thin hair, and so I don’t have far to go in the getting thinner process! I did try hair clips once, but I found that my hair being so fine in texture naturally, that they were too hard on my hair and I developed a bald spot.. My point is, just be careful from overuse with the clips – and definitely don’t sleep with them! You rock, Catherine – you are a beautiful woman too! Thanks for sharing this post and subject with us fellow hair loss gals!
Yo Girlfriend! (I saw your comment on FB–I think the post didn’t show up b/c you don’t subscribe to the blog so the comments go into a “moderation” area). Annmarie. Thanks for your support! I think that’s where I’m fortunate in that the hair that I do have is thick. But I’m careful as all get out when I unclip. The tape extensions seem like a very wonderful choice though. We need a hair loss movement. I’m tired of dishonesty in advertising too. I never EVER see an older woman with thinning hair in ads. NEVER!!! Oy vey! Love ya!! XOXOXOXO!!!
Hi Catherine,
What a great post today, very brave of you.
If you are going to go back to your doctor about being re-tested for a thyroid problem can I suggest that you go and study up on what you need to be asking for from an excellent blog on thyroid called HyperthyroidMom. This blog is an absolute wealth of information on thyroid.problems. You need to be checking that your doctor is getting all the necessary components tested, as I don’t know why but here in Australia it is the same – doctors are quite antsy about giving a thyroid diagnosis. It took me a year here to get a diagnosis and that was only after being hospitalised and a series of blood tests done to confirm. That was 10 years ago, a loss of 10kilos, hair loss was stopped, and no more exhausting fatigue after I started medication. So good luck – if you aren’t happy with the doctor’s response then I think it is time to find a new doctor.
Cheers
Cindy F
xx
Sorry – HypothyroidMom – not HyperthyroidMom
Cindy F
Thanks for the info Cindy. I’m off to check out her blog in a few minutes. I’m starting to re-research and rethink the thyroid issue!! XOXOXOXO!!!
Oh, Catherine what a truly great post. You are such a star for writing about your hair loss and giving us such revealing pics. I have several friends (all in their 60s) with very thin hair, and one with very, very thin hair. We hardly ever talk about this issue, so I think I’ll forward your post to one of them, definitely. I’m very lucky and it’s all about my genes as my mother had thick hair until the day she died and I’ll be the same. Reading some of the other comments including your comments, yes, of course, hair loss just does often happen with no cause, but I think go again and get yourself checked out medically. What about an endocrinologist? A thyroid expert???
And the extensions are simply amazing – very very effective – thanks again for this wonderful post. xxxxxxxxxx
Hi Penny. Thanks! Yeah. I needed to address this issue again and I’m very fortunate to have received a gift that helps disguise this issue of female hair loss. Definitely forward this post to your girls who suffer from this “swept-under-the-carpet” issue that nobody talks about. It’s about time female hair loss is outed!!!!! XOXOXOXO!!!
I think this is a problem many of us ‘of a certain age’ have, but thanks for bringing it to the fore, your courage is amazing. Are thes extensions available I the UK?
Thanks Mary for your comment. I saw on the website that Irresistible Me does carry out international shipping! XOXOXOXO!!!
YOU ARE TOO FUN!Where have YOU been the last 7 years I have been reading BLOGS!I had hair loss HORROR about a year ago………my sister in law was living with us!The hair is not falling out like it was…………but it has changed.I blame a lot of it on age and the fact I had that BRAZILIAN BLOW OUT done a few years ago.That damaged my THICK THICK HAIR A LOT!However, I never had had SO MANY compliments on the HAIR before………GO FIGURE!
This is GREAT NEWS…….I shall share with another BLOGGER I know who is dealing with THE SAME ISSUES!
A WELL STYLED LIFE.
She like YOU tells it HOW IT IS and SHOWS US!
XO
Hi Elizabeth! OMG. I was going to have a Brazilian Blow Out a few years back but was afraid due to the fact that my hair was falling out back then (not as much as now). I am glad I opted not to do so! LOL 7 years ago I wasn’t blogging! Definitely share with your blogger friend. I’m going to check out her blog now because I want to read how she tells it like it is!!! Thanks! XOXOXOXOXO!!!!
What great post, Catherine. I have always had short, very think and curly hair. But lately as I approached turning 60 I began to notice spots in the back where I had to perfectly place my hair to cover the thinner patch. I gasped when I saw them the first time. The very same spots that I’ve been so helpfully covering up for my mum when she proceeds me out the door as we’re off shopping or whatever. Yep…I now have my mum’s hair. Sigh. It had to happen sooner or later!
Hi Susan. I only wish I had my mom’s hair. Both she and my dad had the most incredibly thick heads of hair and never lost any! In fact, all my sibs have great hair. I’m the only one with this issue. But–at least we can address it. And it is an issue that many of us older women are facing (Are you reading this beauty industry?).
Thank you so much for coming forward and commenting–and than you for your support! It means a lot to me both personal and as a blogger! XOXOXOXO!!!
A wonderful post Catherine – love the extensions – good for you. My thought was hormonal but hey, what do I know, I’m a lawyer not a doctor 🙂 Always lovely to read posts from you – a strong, funny and oh so brave woman – by the way, your hair looks great!
Hi Jeanne! Oh…If I get in trouble for ranting too much, I may need to call on your legal expertise–LOL!! Thank you for your positive feedback and comments. Always a pleasure! XOXOXOXO!!!
Sorry Catherine . It’s call ALOPEGIA and I’m shocked no doc was able to diagnostic theat if the thyroid test are fine …..stress, anxiety disorder is a big factor. + any chemical produce ( dye,bleach ,glue) doesn’t help at all .
Do you glued that extension ??!have no idea how it stay, sorry ,again.
You have to find a doc specializes on this issue.
Alll the best ! Josephine.
Hi Josephine. I”ve thought about Alopegia as well as thyroid but have never been diagnosed. Oh..my stress and anxiety levels are off the charts. I’m sure that may be a factor.
No..I didn’t glue the extensions. They are clip on’s and I clip them in and off with gentle care!! Thank you so much!!! XOXOXOXO!!!
Thank you, brave, beautiful Catherine.
Hi Ali. You’re welcome. But I don’t think of it as being brave. It’s being honest and bringing issues that nobody addresses to light. I’m no smoke and mirrors girl 🙂
Anyway, thank YOU for your kind comment!!! XOXOXOXOXO!!!
Hi, I just found you blog and am looking forward to reading all of it. I couldn’t help but respond to your post. I use mens rogaine for my hairline. I started getting some hairloss when I was in my late forties. The rogaine works great for me. I buy mine at walmart. Have you tried the Hairmax? It’s sold on Qvc and it’s for hairloss. I feel for what you are going through and I hope you can find a doctor that can help you. Good luck and you are a beautiful lady!
Hi Emme. Thank you!!! Thank you so much for coming forward and commenting. It’s great when a new friend stops by to give feedback. I’m grateful for your insight and information. I’ve purchased Rogaine years ago when this loss first started. I also purchased other products but just didn’t work to grow back what I lost. Thank you for your empathy and being able to relate. We need to stick together on this! XOXOXOXO!!!
Catherine , you are amazing 🙂
(and the hair extensions look pretty good too 😉 )
I would really study more this thyroid side of things . If you fall within “normal” range for blood levels of hormones doctors dismiss it . Problem is what is considered “normal” may be too high or too low for you. Also doctors usually just order two or three tests for thyroid and there are more specific ones . And it’s not “only about the hair” because if your hair follicles are not working properly there might be other areas of your body that aren’t either .
Turtle Hugs
Hi Turtle. I’ve made an appointment with my doctor and will be checked up in October. I’m going to be doing research on thyroid issues so we’ll see what happens! Thank you for bringing “normal” to light. Damn. You’re scaring me with the “other areas of my body not working” my hypochondria will stress me out!! LOL! XOXOXOXO!!!
Nothing to worry much about , just things like “foggy brain” , “slower digestion” , or dry skin 😉
Turtle Hugs
Really…this was quite an eye opener…I always thought of hair extensions just for lengthening. But how great to use them so my hair doesn’t look as thin! My only concern is the hair I have is thin & fine, so you’d be able to see the wefts? So maybe the tape it would be better, but does it damage the hair?
Thanks for sharing all of this—and you look great!
jodie
http://www.jtouchofstyle.com
Thanks Jodie! Yeah. Surprisingly, the clip in extensions work so well!! Irresistible Me has various weights of the extensions. Therefore someone with thinner hair won’t need a weft as heavy as someone with thicker hair. I was able to clip the wefts in without any notice because I covered them with my bio hair. Although too far in front, I would have to add a headband! Thanks for the compliment. And thanks for adding to the conversation! XOXOXO!!!
Great transparency in this post, good for you … You’re the cat’s meow!
Thanks Mike!!! Love the feedback!!!XOXOXOXO!!!
Catherine, I wanted to comment for days, but I only find the time to sort my thoughts now. First of all, I think it’s very brave that you’ve decided to share these pictures. It can’t have been easy.
I live with a condition called alopecia areata. In basic terms, it’s an auto-immune condition and your immune system attacks hair follicles for no reason – and this leads to patchy hair loss. When I had my major bout with alopecia in my twenties, I lost 80% of the hair on my head and 95% of all body and facial hair (incl eyelashes) in less than two months. The two very experienced dermies I saw told me my alopecia was the worst they’ve seen. No surprise – there aren’t many people that unlucky to lose almost all of their hair in under two months. So my hair loss essentially left me with a few patches of hair – but most of my head was just completely hairless. And I had zero regrowth for two and a half years. I wore wigs. And I hated them.
It took me a while to figure out what caused my hair loss – because I made the mistake of trusting the clueless quacks at my former GP practice more than I trusted my own internet research – and my gut. Literally, my gut. I suspected that gluten might have triggered my alopecia. I found out that research has shown that people who have certain auto-immune conditions are more likely to have certain other auto-immune conditions because of a defect on a certain gene. I remember alopecia, celiac and Sjogren’s are linked. I also wouldn’t be surprised if I’m diagnosed with Sjogren’s at some point. I don’t know too much about this condition but one of the tell-tale signs is that sufferers can’t produce tears – like me… Anyway… I ended up going private for a gut biopsy – which revealed that I had celiac disease. Yes, I knew it – the clueless quacks remained clueless…
Since I’ve read up on the matter I knew that – if you have celiac disease – your body can’t tolerate gluten, your auto-immune system will go nuts if you eat food containing gluten, the vili in your gut get ‘clogged up’ with gluten which prevents them from absorbing nutrients from food – and you’re essentially starving – no matter how much you eat. By the way, this is also the reason why ‘true’ celiacs gain weight once they’re on a gluten-free diet and their guts start to heal. 🙂
So I changed my diet to gluten-free – and within four months I had regrowth all over my head (Yay!) and my body (OK, THAT I could have done without). It was… epic! I also noticed that 95% of my chronic eczema healed up completely. I said goodbye to those inflamed and itchy rashes on my elbows, arms, knees, shoulders and everywhere else. My face went from being patchy and inflamed to ‘regular’. My constant brain fog wass gone! I felt energised, I slept well (I hadn’t slept OK in years), and all of a sudden I was able to carry more than two water bottles without breaking a sweat. It was… wonderful! Sure, there were people who said it was a coincidence – yeah right! I knew it wasn’t. I got ‘glutened’ by accident a few months later. I lost a lot of hair, my eczema returned, my scalp and my skin got itchy – everywhere, and my tummy was killing me… but fortunately this reaction was a one-off because since then I’ve refused to anything I haven’t prepared myself – in my own kitchen using my own crockery and cutlery. OK, I eat the foods my husband prepares – but he went gluten-free too – just for me. He’s been with me through the toughest times and he too knows the effect gluten would have on me, so in order to avoid cross-contamination with gluten, he swore off gluten too.
Now I have a full head of hair – it all grew back. And I haven’t had any hair loss since 2012 (fingers crossed). But looking back, it really was the worst time of my life. I didn’t want to meet new people, I didn’t want to hang out with my friends (I wasn’t comfortable speaking about my hair loss and I was afraid someone would bring it up), I didn’t want to do certain things because I knew my wig wouldn’t be up for it… I don’t want to fall into the self-pity trap, but I can tell you some of my best years (in my late twenties) sucked because I didn’t have hair.
Now, I don’t believe that your hair loss would be related to celiac. But if you suspect it’s something, you’re probably right. Everyone knows their own body better than any doctor could. I recognise you don’t have any thyroid issues, but your hair loss may still be hormonal due to excess androgen. And you shouldn’t just take iron supplements without having your iron and ferritin checked. If it’s low, it should be checked out because low iron and ferritin are linked to quite a few serious conditions. A wonderful doctor I once saw summed it up perfectly – there are three reasons for low iron and ferritin: 1. malabsorption (that was my problem due to celiac), 2. malnutrition, or 3. heavy blood loss. That doctor was brilliant – too bad she was a hospital doc because I think she would be the most amazing GP!
Catherine, I would recommend you pop over to heralopecia.com. It’s a wonderful web site and forum that focuses on all kinds of female hair loss conditions. The forums are split into several groups depending on the type of hair loss – so you can discuss relevant topics with fellow sufferers. The people in the alopecia areata forum (‘my’ forum) were absolutely brilliant. The ladies on heralopecia are generally very knowledgeable and I’m sure someone can point you in the right direction if you share photos of your hair loss (but you don’t have to) or describe the issues and your personal circumstances. Please visit heralopecia.com – they helped me a lot and I’m sure you’ll find some answers too. And please let me know what you think about their forums!
Now let me apologise for the loooong comment. But I wanted to let you know that I know how you feel (back then I didn’t believe my hair would grow back). And if you want to talk, let me know. 🙂
Oh, and one more thing: A few posts ago you said you check out everyone’s hair – I do it to. 🙂 Just to assess and compare in a ‘clinical’ and non-judgmental way… I guess I’ll always be checking every woman’s hair for the rest of my life….
Hi Strawberry. Wow! You’ve really lit a lightbulb over my head. I’m wondering if my diet can be adding to my loss. I have a doctor’s appointment in October and will be asking for a referral to see an autoimmune physician. It’s weird. I feel there is something a bit off-kilter but I think it is treatable. I don’t believe my hair will grow back–but I’m just petrified of losing more than I have. It’s really daunting.
Thank you, thank you, thank you so much for your input. You have no idea how much I appreciate it!! Oh..I don’t think I’ll ever stop looking at women’s hair either!! XOXOXOXO!!!
Catherine, I hope you’ll find the answers you’re looking for. I’m no doctor, and I can’t advise you on anything medical, but I recommend you read up on female hair loss, google images and get in touch with other women who experience the same. Please head over to heralopecia.com and read, read, read, take notes (and take them with you when you see your doc) and get in touch with the ladies over there. I’m not affiliated with the web site, but thanks to those ladies I didn’t lose my sanity back then.
Oh, one more thing, in regards to your diet. Have you tried an elimination diet where you cut out certain foods and then reintroduce them to your diet one by one? This might be something to try. Whilst I think your hair loss looks more like diffuse alopecia or hair loss triggered by excess androgen, I’m no specialist. But if you think you can try something yourself, do it! Just don’t waste any money on products promising regrowth.In regards to your doctor’s appointment. Maybe you can ask for blood tests before they refer you. They should be able to do a full auto-immune panel – maybe vitamins and minerals as well. Again, low iron should be checked out. And B12 deficiency is no picknick either – I speak from experience…
Let me know if you want to discuss things. I’m there for you. Sending you hugs and kisses! xoxoxo
Just found your blog today and am sure to binge read! THANK YOU for this post–I do have thyroid issues, take medication, use Rogaine, and still have some thinning and loss of my hair. And it makes me feel like crap! But those extensions are marvelous! Gonna have to get a pony–I think life would be good if I could toss that thing around.
Thanks again
Susan
Hi Susan!! Oh please! Feel free to binge read and welcome to my world!! I’m glad that you could relate to the issues I wrote about. I actually wore a “topper” today. I’m fooling around with fake hair. But look-at least you know what your issue is!! I only WISH that I had a diagnosis of thyroid!!! That being said, thank you for the compliments on the hair extensions!! The do rock!!! XOXOXOXOXO!!!!
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My hair is grey in streaks, dark in other places. How hard would it be to find a color match? Impossible or possible?
Thank you!
Hi Chris. I don’t think it would be difficult. Toppik has a salt ‘n pepper color and you can find hair extensions in shades of grays and blacks as well. Forever Young has grayish wigs too. Research and ye shall find!!! XOXOXOXOXO!!!
thanks for posting this! you’re right, female hair loss is a woefully, weirdly hushed up topic. we’re supposed to just have magically full thick hair without ever trying? hmph. glad you found something you like that’s boosting your confidence!
Hi, thank you for sharing your story, you look fabulous!!!! I sent you an email in re. to Monat, they have literally saved mine and my mothers hair (she has thryoid hairloss). They are the first to be clinically proven and third party tested for hair regrowth, plus toxin free unlike rogaine. They are the best products for your hair ever!!! Hope to hear from you. Ina XOXO
ina.mymonat.com
Hi Ina! I just replied to your email! I thank you for your compliments! I’m also intrigued by Monat. As I see it is our neighbor from Canada, it should prove to be a good and reliable product line!!! Thank you for your comment and I look forward to hearing from you! XOXOXO!!!
Hey, I kinda skimmed over your post. I don’t know if you mentioned it, but do some research on a “hair clouser”. They are designed to cover that type of hair loss. You can sew clips on them and use them the same way.
Hi Kristi! I just ordered one from Uniwigs. Am waiting for it to be delivered! XOXOXOXO!!!
Hi, did you get tested by a dermatologist for your hair loss?
No. I have regular checkups for skin cancer as I’ve had it in the past. I’ve had bloodwork done too. I’m actually really fine with my hair loss because I love wearing wigs!!! XOXOXOXO
Thanks, I just wondered because I have a condition called telogen effluvium which presents much like your hair loss.
Hi Monica—I also have a history of Trich. I’ve pulled on my hair for over 40 years! XOXOXOXO!!!
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