Female Pattern Hair Loss (FPHL) is the most prevalent cause of hair loss in women and occurs due to a combination of genetical, hormonal, and environmental factors.
Unlike Male pattern hair loss, which often presents as a balding top area of the head, FPHL typically results in a reduction of the hair density more specifically through the top and frontal areas of the scalp.
It rarely leads to complete baldness The slow reduction of the hair density can be so very distressing for nearly all women who suffer.
The main causes of Female Pattern Hair Loss:
Genetics: One of the primary causes of FPHL is genetic predisposition. If a woman has a family history of female pattern hair loss, she will be more susceptible to hair thinning.
Hormones: Hormonal imbalances and deficiencies can play a significant role in FPHL. Androgens, a group of male sex hormones, can have an impact on some hair follicles which can cause follicular shrinkage or miniaturisation, leading to thinner, shorter hair growth.
Age: As women age, the production of the main sex hormones, estrogen and progesterone, decreases. This hormonal shift can contribute to the reduction in hair density.
Medical Conditions: Certain medical complaints such as polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) and/or thyroid disorders can cause hormonal imbalances that can cause hair hair fall/loss.
Acute and Chronic trauma, anxiety etc can disrupt the body’s hormonal balance, leading to hair loss.
It is worth a mention that hair loss can also be a symptom of other medical conditions, so it’s crucial to seek a professional evaluation to determine the specific cause of hair fall.
Options for the treatment of FPHL
Oral Medication via a doctor or endocrinologist who may suggest anti androgens etc
Topical treatments.
Some Trichologists provide a full stimulative external therapy for FPHL with an aim to slow down, minimise, contain and control any further hair loss as well as aiming for some regrowth as we do. Others can only provide home products.
Minoxidil as a liquid administered in drop form can act as a very helpful topical home stimulant especially when supplementing our therapy.
