Understanding Causes of Hair Loss in Women

May 2021 in “ Dermatologic Clinics ”

Neil S. Sadick, Suleima Arruda

female pattern hair loss FPHL androgens cortisol UV radiation pollutants platelet-rich plasma low-level laser therapy nutraceuticals microinflammation oxidative stress hormonal imbalances PRP LLLT

From the encyclopedia

Hydrocortisone →

a synthetic cortisol used for anti-inflammatory effects

Platelet-Rich Plasma →

growth factors taken from your blood and injected into your scalp to stimulate hair

Low Level Laser Therapy →

laser therapy for anti-inflammatory and likely insignificant hair regrowth effects

Studysummary This article reviews advancements in hair transplantation, highlighting robotic and follicular unit techniques, and discusses adjuvant modalities like platelet-rich plasma, lasers, and stem cells without reporting new clinical results. Our plain-language summary of this paper — not a Tressless recommendation.

Female pattern hair loss (FPHL) is a condition affecting around 20% of adult women in the U.S., with a higher prevalence in White women and often starting post-menopause. The causes of FPHL are complex, involving hormonal, environmental, and genetic factors that lead to microinflammation and oxidative stress. Androgens, stress hormones like cortisol, UV radiation, pollutants, and lifestyle choices all contribute to the condition. Treatments should focus on the multifaceted nature of hair loss, targeting inflammation, oxidative stress, and hormonal imbalances. New therapies such as platelet-rich plasma, low-level laser therapy, and nutraceuticals are promising as they address multiple aspects of hair loss and aim to improve the immune response. The document suggests a shift in treatment strategies to encompass the broader pathophysiology of hair loss.

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Research cited in this study

24 / 24 results

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47 citations , October 2016 in “Molecular and Cellular Endocrinology”

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