How to Treat a Widening Hair Part for Women Over 40

Over 30 million women experience a widening hair part—where thinning hair occurs and bares the scalp along the partline. While it might be comforting to know you’re not alone if experiencing this type of thinning, it’s still beyond frustrating to deal with. The good news is that pros say there are spot-specific solutions for a widening part that help address this type of thinning hair. Scroll on for answers on how to stop your part from widening any further.

What causes a widening hair part?

The first thing to note is that this type of thinning hair is actually called female pattern hair loss (FPHL), which is a progressive, hereditary condition. Yet other factors such as telogen effluvium—a disruption in the hair growth cycle where hairs enter the resting (telogen) phase and fall out—or scalp conditions like psoriasis, as well as excessive hair damage from styling can also contribute, says Kristina Collins, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Austin Skin in Austin, TX.

What’s more, hormonal changes like thyroid conditions, polycystic ovary syndrome or menopause, in addition to stress, nutrient deficiencies, viral illnesses, medications, or other medical conditions may play a part as well. It’s no wonder why so many women over 50 experience this type of thinning since most are dealing with so many of these contributing factors.

How to identify a widening hair part

This type of thinning appears in the partline near the crown of your head. “Women will start to notice less density or volume around the part,” says Mamina Turegano, MD, a board-certified dermatologist practicing at Sonova Dermatology in Metairie, LA. “Over time hair in this area gets thinner and finer—and unlike patchy hair loss, the hairline stays intact.”

Viktoryia Kazlosukaya, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Dermatology Circle in NYC adds that dermatologists describe this type of hair thinning as a ‘Christmas tree pattern,’ since the shape of your bare scalp showing through your hair sometimes resembles the yuletide icon.

What can help treat a widening hair part?

While the dermatologists we spoke to say there’s no “one-size-fits-all” when it comes to solutions for a widening part, they all insisted that consulting a specialist is the only way to create a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.

“Your doctor will likely want to evaluate your overall health since issues like thyroid imbalances, vitamin deficiencies, and anemia can contribute to the problem,” says Dr. Kazlosukaya. “Addressing these factors can significantly support hair regrowth and health.” What’s more, the best approach for remedying a widening hair part can be a combination of treatments, adds Dr. Turegano. Read on for the doctor-recommended options for a widening hair part.

Topical minoxidil

In terms of traditional medical treatments, the only FDA-approved treatment to deal with FPHL is topical minoxidil (or Rogaine). This solution is applied directly to the scalp to minimize hair loss.

Oral medications

Spironolactone or finasteride can be prescribed to address hormone-related hair loss.

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy

This procedure consists of the patient’s own blood being injected into the scalp to stimulate hair follicle growth. It can cost up to $2,000 per injection.

Ways to prevent a widening part

While prevention of a widening part is difficult due to genetics being a main factor, there are proven ways to help slow the process of thinning hair. These include:

Topical serums and scalp massage

The use of serums with ingredients like caffeine, peptides or niacinamide can help nourish the scalp.“Applying these serums along with regular scalp massages enhance blood flow to the area,” says Dr. Collins. “Increased blood flow encourages hair growth.”

One to try: The Ordinary Multi-Peptide Serum for Hair Density, which contains caffeine, peptides and biotin to stimulate hair growth. To apply, in circular motions use the pads of your fingers to gently rub in a few drops of hair serum into your scalp.

Minimize breakage

“Be gentle with your hair,” advises Dr. Turegano. “Avoid tight hairstyles, harsh brushing, chemical treatments and heat damage.” Dr. Collins also advises alternating your part to reduce stress on the same area, as well as never brushing hair while wet and using wide-tooth combs to minimize breaking off fragile strands.

Protect the scalp

When heading outside, protecting your scalp is a must. “Always apply sunscreen sprays or hats to prevent UV damage,” adds Dr. Collins. Sunburns can damage the scalp and inhibit hair growth. A scalp SPF to try is Sun Bum Original SPF 30 Sunscreen Scalp and Hair Mist. Be sure to spray it liberally along your part line.

Use hair-boosting supplements

To keep hair healthy be sure to maintain a balanced diet with sufficient protein, iron, zinc, and vitamins like D and B-complex. “I’m a proponent of supplementation with vitamins,” says Dr. Turegano. “Supplements I recommend include Beautycore, which contains biotin, selenium, and probiotics to support hair growth and scalp health—I’m also a fan of hydrolyzed marine collagen, which can be found in supplements like Viviscal and Nutrafol.”

Lastly, when it comes to solutions for a widening hair part getting help the moment you notice thinning is key. “Seek help early—early intervention can prevent further loss and improve regrowth,” advises Dr. Collins. “Don’t hesitate to consult a dermatologist for a tailored plan and emotional support—you’re not alone, and solutions exist to help you feel confident again.” Most of all, remember persistence is key. “Hair growth is a process,” says Dr. Tureganoso. “Be patient and consistent with your treatment, and you will see results.”

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This story was originally published February 25, 2025 at 11:00 AM.