We completely comprehend the fear and trauma experienced by women suffering with any type of hair fall.
Sudden excessive hair fall (Telogen Effluvium) and the often more gradual hair loss condition Female Pattern Hair Fall are very common and familiar complaints here at ‘The Spencer Clinic’.
In regard to FPHL, we take careful note of the longevity of the condition so as to not confuse it with other types of hair loss problems that can result in a similar pattern of hair loss.
The severity of the hair loss can be variable. Often, patients can begin to notice a widening of the central parting. This causes thinning in a ‘pattern’ that can affect the mid-frontal area only or/and the whole top area of the head.
Female pattern hair loss can affect women as early as their late teens. The onset of the complaint can be caused by genetics from either/or both parents (even when they do not express the genetic trait themselves), hormonal imbalances or deficiencies, menstrual problems, oral contraception, pregnancy, menopause etc. Similarly to men, hair can either fall out rapidly or gradually depending on the severity of the cause.
Women aged between 60-70 can suffer with a naturally occurring diffused generalised loss throughout the scalp. This is known as Senescent Alopecia. It is a distinct disorder, similar to Male/Female pattern hair loss but is not caused by the conversion of testosterone. However, it can occur alongside Pattern hair loss.
In the mean time, if you are under trichological supervision, progress will be carefully monitored. It is also worth mentioning that some women who are advised by their GP to begin HRT for whatever reason, after a while, can actually begin to lose hair!! So ladies, please be mindful.
This condition is certainly treatable. However, hair follicles, the ducts in the skin from which hair grows, can degenerate and miniaturise from this complaint so please do seek help sooner rather than later, preferably from a registered trichologist, as your GP may not be quite as understanding, sympathetic or able to help as effectively.
If you feel you may be suffering with female pattern hair loss and wish to find out more about how The Spencer Clinic can help you, simply call us today on 020 7584 4255 or get a Free Online Diagnosis.