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Hair Loss in Women

For women, hair plays a central role in one’s appearance. Its color, texture, and style can be altered daily as a means of self-expression and re-invention. Hair dyes, permanent waves, and hot irons all provide means of changing the way hair appears. However, when women thin, it is more difficult to hide cosmetically. They cannot shave their heads or wear a baseball cap. Instead they may feel embarrassed or self-consciousness about the ‘see-through’ nature of their hair and scalp. Nonetheless, most women never go completely bald. Their stage of hair loss can be categorized as Ludwig I, II, or III, depending on the severity of hair loss over the crown area.

Minoxidil, or Rogaine®, is currently the only FDA approved treatment for female pattern hair loss. Its use is supported by extensive data showing an increase in the caliber of hairs as well as an increase in the amount of time spent in the anagen (actively growing) phase. Its use must be continued as long as thicker hair is desired.

Propecia® (finasteride 1mg) has not been found to be particularly effective in women, but there is emerging data that a higher dose of 5mg daily may be effective in treating women with hair loss. It can have a negative effect on a male fetus, so we do not use this drug in women who may become pregnant. Dr. Rogers has seen promising results using it in postmenopausal women at the 5mg dose.

Spironolactone is another drug we use for treating female pattern hair loss. It has a known anti-androgen effect at the level of the hair follicle, helping to regrow and thicken the follicles. It is not for all women and cannot be taken if there is a chance of pregnancy. It should only be used in women with good kidney function and no electrolyte abnormalities.

Finally, hair transplantation can help get a 'jumpstart' on the density in a given area. The more Dr. Rogers can focus the transplanted hairs in a given area, the greater difference she can make for her patients. Women are as good candidates for hair transplantation as men. Still, it is recommended that all patients continue to use some form of medication to stabilize their hair loss. This helps keep the surrounding (non-transplanted) hairs from thinning.

Please Click Here for information about medical treatments for male and female pattern hair loss.

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