Understanding and Management of Female Pattern Alopecia
November 2008
in “
Facial Plastic Surgery
”
TLDR The conclusion is that the best approach for treating Female Pattern Hair Loss is a combination of different treatments.
The document from 2008 provides a comprehensive overview of Female Pattern Hair Loss (FPHL), affecting an estimated 21 million women in the U.S., and emphasizes the importance of accurate diagnosis and understanding the psychological impact on patients. It details diagnostic methods, including the Ludwig and Savin scales, routine lab work, and scalp biopsies, and discusses treatment options such as minoxidil, low-level laser therapy (LLLT), and hair transplantation. The document notes that while hair transplantation can be effective, it requires careful consideration of future hair loss, donor hair availability, and realistic patient expectations. Minoxidil is highlighted as the only FDA-approved medication for FPHL, with potential side effects like dermatitis and facial hypertrichosis. Antiandrogens and LLLT are also mentioned as treatments, with the latter showing improved hair manageability and color. The conclusion stresses the need for a multifaceted approach combining treatments to achieve the best results for women with FPHL.
