Female pattern alopecia: current perspectives
August 2013
in “International Journal of Women's Health”
TLDR Female pattern hair loss is caused by multiple factors and while treatments like topical minoxidil, hormone therapy, and low-level light therapy can help, none can fully cure it.
The 2013 document "Female pattern alopecia: current perspectives" discussed female pattern hair loss (FPHL), a common condition characterized by reduced hair density, particularly on the crown and frontal scalp. The cause was believed to be multifactorial, involving genetic and hormonal factors. The only FDA-approved treatment at the time was topical minoxidil, but its effects were unpredictable and temporary. Other treatments included hormone therapy, hair transplantation, and off-label use of drugs like Finasteride and Dutasteride. Spironolactone showed promise, arresting hair loss progression in a study of 80 women. Low-level light therapy (LLLT) devices like the HairMax laser comb and The Oaze showed significant improvements in hair density and diameter. However, no treatment was curative, and the goal was to halt progression and improve remaining hair density.
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