Doctor’s Note: Your Easy Guide to Female Pattern Hair Loss

As dermatologists, we understand that female pattern hair loss can be distressing and impact self-esteem. This common condition, often caused by genetics and hormones, affects millions of women, leading to gradual hair thinning over time. In this guide, we’ll explain what female pattern hair loss is, why it happens, and what treatment options are available.

Click the video to the right, or read on for more!

What is Female Pattern Hair Loss?

Female pattern hair loss, also called androgenetic alopecia, is a common cause of hair thinning in women. Unlike male pattern baldness, which usually causes hair loss at the hairline and crown, female pattern hair loss often leads to a general thinning across the top of the scalp. This pattern is different and unique, affecting mostly the central parting and widening over time, creating a noticeable thinning in the middle of the scalp.

Causes of Female Pattern Hair Loss

The cause of female pattern hair loss can be explained by its scientific name, Androgenetic Alopecia. Let’s break it down:

Andro = Androgen, which refers to male hormone
Genetic = Genetic, meaning you inherit this condition
Alopecia = Hair Loss

In simple terms, female pattern hair loss happens because you inherit hair follicles that are sensitive to a male hormone called DHT (Dihydrotestosterone), which slows down hair growth. This hormone damages the hair follicles, leading to thinner hairs and slower hair growth over time.

This is why treatments for female pattern hair loss do one of two things:

Block DHT
Boost nutrients to the hair follicles

Female Pattern Hair Loss Pictures

Female pattern hair loss is a gradual process, which can make it challenging to notice at first. The main symptom is hair thinning along the central parting. Women with this condition rarely experience complete baldness, but the scalp may become more visible over time.

Thinning Hair

The hair on the top of your head starts to thin out, especially around the part line.

Hair Loss at Temples

Some women may notice thinning around the temples.

Widening Part

Your part may become wider as hair thins.

Spectrum of Female Pattern Hair Loss

This image shows the progression of female pattern hair loss, from minimal thinning (A) to more significant hair loss (E). The stages show how hair density decreases over time. Patients often ask “Will I go bald?” and the answer is NO. The hair loss tends to be gradual and usually leads to thinning rather than total baldness. If you see women with no hair at all, this is a completely different form of hair loss. For female pattern hair loss, do not fret about going bald!!

Hair Shedding vs Hair Loss

It’s important to understand the difference between hair shedding and hair loss, as these terms often get confused. Hair shedding is a natural part of the hair growth cycle. On average, people shed about 50 to 100 hairs a day, which is completely normal. Hair shedding becomes noticeable when it increases, often due to stress, seasonal changes, or factors like diet or illness. This type of shedding is usually temporary and tends to resolve once the underlying cause is addressed.

Hair loss, on the other hand, involves a more permanent reduction in hair density. With hair loss, hair doesn’t grow back in the same way, often resulting in thinner hair over time or even bald patches. Unlike hair shedding, hair loss may require treatment to stimulate regrowth or slow its progression.

In short, hair shedding is a temporary process and part of the normal hair cycle, while hair loss is often more persistent and may indicate an underlying issue affecting hair health.

Normal Hair Shedding

Abnormal Hair Shedding

Diagnosis of Female Pattern Hair Loss

A dermatologist will diagnose female pattern hair loss through a clinical examination and reviewing your medical history. Sometimes, a pull test (gently pulling a few hairs to see how many fall out) can indicate the hair’s shedding phase. In some cases, we might recommend a scalp biopsy or blood tests to rule out other causes like nutritional deficiencies, thyroid issues, or autoimmune conditions.

Lifestyle Changes for Hair Loss

Certain lifestyle choices can also help support hair health and slow the progression of hair loss.

Nutrition: A balanced diet with vitamins and minerals, like iron, zinc, and biotin, supports hair health. Iron aids healthy follicles, zinc helps reduce shedding, and biotin promotes keratin production, essential for strong hair.
Gentle Hair Care: Protect your hair by avoiding excessive heat styling, using mild shampoos to retain natural oils, and limiting chemical treatments like coloring or perming, which can lead to breakage.
Stress Management: High stress levels can lead to hair thinning and shedding. Managing stress through mindfulness, exercise, and adequate sleep can help support overall hair health.

Best Over-the-Counter Products for Female Pattern Hair Loss

When it comes to managing female pattern hair loss, over-the-counter (OTC) products can be an effective option. These products are designed to help slow down hair loss, promote growth, and improve the overall health of your hair. Whether you're looking for DHT blockers, scalp treatments, or products that nourish hair follicles, the right OTC solutions can make a noticeable difference. However, it’s important to remember that you typically need to use these products consistently for 4-6 months to see visible results. In this section, we’ll explore some of the best OTC products available to help you take control of your hair health and address thinning hair.

Caffeine Shampoo

Some shampoos contain caffeine, which may stimulate hair follicles and improve hair thickness. Although more research is needed, caffeine shampoo is a popular option for managing hair thinning.

Rogaine*

Minoxidil is FDA-approved for hair regrowth. It comes in both 2% and 5% strengths and is available as a foam or liquid solution. Regular application is essential for effectiveness.

Nizoral

Ketoconazole is an antifungal ingredient that may reduce scalp inflammation and support healthier hair follicles, which can help slow hair loss.

Biotin

While biotin deficiencies are rare, taking a biotin supplement may help support overall hair health. Look for hair, skin, and nail formulations with biotin as a key ingredient. Always ask your doctor before starting a supplement!

Viviscal

Viviscal is a supplement that you take twice a day to improve hair growth. Its main ingredient is the "AminoMar Marine Collagen Complex," which helps promote healthy hair.

Nutrafol

Nutrafol is another supplement, but you take it four times a day. It contains various ingredients that help increase hair growth, including marine collagen.

Pumpkin Seed

Available as a supplement or in topical formulations, pumpkin seed oil has shown some potential for reducing hair loss by blocking DHT (a hormone linked to hair thinning).

Rosemary Oil

Some essential oils, like rosemary oil, are believed to stimulate hair growth. Mix a few drops with a carrier oil (like jojoba oil) and massage it into the scalp.

Toppik

Toppik is a topical fiber that you apply to your hair to make it look thicker. It clings to existing hair strands, giving your hair instant volume.

Microneedling

Microneedling uses a device with tiny needles to create small punctures in the scalp, which can stimulate hair follicles. This treatment can enhance the absorption of topical treatments like Rogaine. Microneedling is available for home use, but proper technique is essential to prevent infection.

Derma Stamp Professional Microneedle Stamp

Microstamping

Similar to microneedling, microstamping also uses tiny needles, but in a stamping motion rather than rolling. This method is gentler on the scalp and may reduce irritation for people with sensitive skin. Like microneedling, it promotes blood flow and can help with the absorption of hair growth products like Rogaine.

iRestore Professional Laser Red Light Therapy for Hair Growth System

Laser Light*

Laser caps or combs that use low-level laser therapy can stimulate hair follicles and improve hair density over time. These devices are available for home use and can be used several times a week.

*FDA approved for hair loss.

If your hair loss is getting worse, it’s best to go to the dermatologist to explore prescriptions and procedures. Read on for more details!

Prescription Treatment Overview

If you’ve tried all or even some of the above and nothing is working, it may be time to visit your friendly dermatologist for prescription treatment. But remember that prescription treatment is not a cure-all. Treating Female Pattern Hair Loss (FPHL) usually requires a long-term commitment, often taking more than 6 months to see results. Most hair treatment plans begin with using over-the-counter (OTC) Rogaine. It's essential to understand that stopping treatment can cause hair growth to stop and may lead to hair loss starting again.

Here is our typical go-to plan for treating patients with female pattern hair loss:

OTC = Over-the-Counter

Best Prescriptions for Female Pattern Hair Loss

While female pattern hair loss can be a lifelong condition, several treatments can slow the process and even help regrow hair. Here are the main options dermatologists recommend:

Spironolactone

We often prescribe spiro for hormonal acne, but it works for hair loss as well. Spiro reduces hair loss by reducing DHT levels in the body.

Finasteride

Although primarily used in men, some dermatologists may prescribe finasteride to postmenopausal women. This medication blocks DHT to preserve hair thickness.

Oral Minoxidil

The oral version of topical Rogaine. This increases nutrients to the hair follicle to stimulate hair growth.

Birth Control

Birth control pills can help balance hormones that might be contributing to hair loss.

Best Procedures for Female Pattern Hair Loss

PRP for Hair Loss

Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy involves drawing a small amount of blood, processing it to concentrate the platelets, and injecting it into the scalp. Platelets contain growth factors that stimulate hair follicles and support hair regrowth. PRP is a promising option for some women, but results can vary.

Transplant

In cases where female pattern hair loss is advanced, hair transplant surgery might be an option. This procedure involves moving hair from one area of the scalp to another. Although effective, this option is usually reserved for severe cases.

Microneedling for Hair Loss

A procedure that involves tiny needles to create micro-injuries on the scalp, which can stimulate hair growth.

Laser Light

Low-level laser therapy is a newer treatment option for female pattern hair loss. This treatment uses laser devices to stimulate hair follicles, improving hair density and thickness. You can find devices like laser caps or combs for home use, or seek in-office treatments.

Did you know your medical insurance might cover the cost of a wig, often referred to as a “cranial prosthesis”? Learn how to navigate the wig process and take advantage of this benefit!

Hair Loss Before and After

Okay, so we've been talking a lot about hair loss and treatments, but sometimes seeing is believing. In this section, we’ll show you before-and-after photos to give you a clearer idea of what kind of results you can expect. These real-life examples highlight the progress that can be made with the right treatments, whether it's through OTC products, prescription medications, or other solutions.

Microneedling Hair Loss Before and After

3 Month PRP for Hair Loss Before and After

When to See a Dermatologist

If you notice persistent hair thinning or widening of your part, consider seeing a dermatologist. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to managing female pattern hair loss effectively. We can help tailor a treatment plan suited to your needs, offering guidance on products and prescriptions that can help slow down the process.

Female Pattern Hair Loss FAQs

What vitamin deficiency causes hair loss in females?
Vitamin deficiencies in biotin, vitamin D, iron, and zinc are commonly linked to hair loss in females. Ensuring a well-balanced diet or taking supplements can help address these deficiencies.

Which hormone causes hair loss in females?
Androgens, particularly dihydrotestosterone (DHT), can cause hair loss in females by shrinking hair follicles and leading to androgenetic alopecia (female pattern hair loss). Hormonal imbalances involving estrogen or progesterone can also contribute.

How to stop hair loss from Ozempic in females?
To manage hair loss while taking Ozempic, ensure adequate protein, vitamins, and minerals in your diet. Consider biotin or hair growth supplements, and consult a healthcare provider for further advice if hair loss persists.

Does high testosterone cause hair loss in females?
Yes, high testosterone levels can contribute to hair loss in females by increasing the production of DHT, a hormone that causes hair follicle miniaturization.

How to stop Mounjaro hair loss in females?
To address hair loss while on Mounjaro, focus on maintaining a nutrient-rich diet, consider hair growth supplements like biotin or collagen, and consult with your doctor to discuss possible adjustments to your treatment plan.

Can alcohol cause hair loss in females?
Excessive alcohol consumption can contribute to hair loss in females by causing nutrient deficiencies, dehydration, and poor scalp health. Moderation and proper nutrition can help mitigate this.

Do steroids cause hair loss in females?
Anabolic steroids or corticosteroids can cause hair loss in females, especially if they alter hormone levels or trigger androgenetic alopecia. The effects are often reversible after discontinuation.

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