What is Female Pattern Hair Loss?

What is female pattern hair loss? 

Female pattern hair loss is also known as androgenetic alopecia and it’s a common hair loss condition in women with a varying severity.

It is believed to be hereditary so can be inherited from both or either parents. 

What causes female pattern hair loss?

Female pattern hair loss (FPHL) is caused by hormonal and genetic factors. The hairs produced in the affected follicles are smaller and thinner in length and diameter until eventually they no longer produce a hair. 

This condition can be associated with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). Other signs of PCOS are acne, infertility, excessive facial hair and irregular periods. 

FPHL tends to happen later in life for women compared to men, usually around the menopause, however it can start earlier, sometimes in the 30’s. 

Androgenetic alopecia tends to present differently for males and females, in women it’s usually a wide thinning of the hair, mostly on the crown of the scalp and the front of the hairline is usually not affected as much. 

Hairs in the thinning area are finer in diameter and shorter in length before they shed again then become absent.

Is there a cure for female pattern hair loss?

Unfortunately, there is no cure for FPHL, however it usually develops slowly. An earlier onset could lead to a quicker development. 

Are there any treatments available for female pattern hair loss? 

There are some oral and topical treatments available for FPHL. These include 

• Minoxidil 2% topical solution is recommended for women, not available on the NHS, this medication was designed to reduce blood pressure and has side effects including skin irritation. This can cause hair to shed in the first 2-8 weeks of using. 
• Oral treatments such as spironolactone and some oral contraceptives can help to block dihydrotestosterone, or DHT, the hormone responsible for the miniaturisation and can help to improve some hair loss and density. 

It’s important to note that these treatments must be continued as they only work for as long as they are used. 

 

Some people may find it beneficial to use hair pieces/toppers or wigs to disguise female pattern hair loss. Real hair wigs can be expensive but will be much better quality than synthetic wigs. 

Some people chose to camouflage this condition with pigmented hair fibres. 

Hair transplants are available for this condition privately where hairs are transplanted from the donor area (the back and sides) into the thinning area. 

If you are suffering with this condition, it’s important to protect your scalp in the sun as you will be more exposed with less hair there. To reduce the risk of long term sun damage, cover with a hat, sunblock or a wig.