Hormonal Therapy in Female Pattern Hair Loss

February 2017 in “ International Journal of Women's Dermatology ”

Kevin R. Brough, Rochelle R. Torgerson

female pattern hair loss FPHL hair thinning vertex of the scalp hormonal therapies 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors androgen receptor blockers estrogen oral contraceptive drugs minoxidil Rogaine

Studysummary This review discusses the physiology and potential hormonal mechanisms involved in female pattern hair loss, as well as the current hormonal and hormone-modifying treatments available, but reports no new research findings.

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

Female pattern hair loss (FPHL) is a common form of hair loss in women, characterized by hair thinning at the vertex of the scalp. Hormonal therapies, including 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors, androgen receptor blockers, estrogen, and oral contraceptive drugs, have been used to treat FPHL. The effectiveness of these therapies varies, and the only FDA-approved therapy is minoxidil. Patients should have reasonable expectations, as progress is slow and can take months or years to see significant improvement. Further research is needed to determine the optimal treatment approach.

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Research cited in this study

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