Female Pattern Hair Loss: A Review Article

October 2013 in “ international journal of endocrinology and metabolism ”

Ingrid Herskovitz, Antonella Tosti

female pattern hair loss FPHL hyperandrogenism polycystic ovarian syndrome PCOS minoxidil 5-alfa reductase inhibitors antiandrogens estrogens prostaglandin analogs lasers light treatments hair transplantation Rogaine 5-alpha reductase inhibitors laser therapy light therapy hair transplant

From the encyclopedia

Minoxidil →

An essential vasodilator with some anti-androgenic effects

Hair Transplant →

Hair transplantation moves DHT-resistant follicles from a donor area (back and sides of the scalp) into thinning or bald areas. The transplanted hair is generally permanent, though surrounding native hair can keep thinning.

Studysummary This review discusses clinical features, differential diagnosis, and treatments for female pattern hair loss, emphasizing the use of 2% topical Minoxidil and exploring alternative off-label therapies.

Our plain-language summary. Not medical advice or a treatment recommendation. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before changing treatment. Full disclaimer

This document is a review article on female pattern hair loss (FPHL), which is a common condition that affects millions of women. FPHL is not associated with elevated androgens, but less commonly, females with FPHL may have other skin or general signs of hyperandrogenism. The most common endocrinological abnormality associated with FPHL is polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). The only approved treatment for FPHL is 2% topical Minoxidil, which should be applied at the dosage of 1ml twice a day for a minimum period of 12 months. This review discusses off-label alternative modalities of treatment including 5-alfa reductase inhibitors, antiandrogens, estrogens, prostaglandin analogs, lasers, light treatments, and hair transplantation.

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Research cited in this study

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