Trichoscopic Features, Clinical Correlates, And Risk Prediction In Female Pattern Hair Loss: A Retrospective Case-Control Study

February 2026 in “ Clinical Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology ”

Boquan Long, Qi Long, Pan Wang, Siqi Chen, Zhiming Ye, Hongwei Guo

female pattern hair loss chronic telogen effluvium trichoscopic features peripilar signs scalp pigmentation androgenetic alopecia genetic basis acne seborrheic dermatitis menstrual disorders diet sleep quality stress FPHL CTE AGA

Studysummary This study found that a family history of androgenetic alopecia and specific trichoscopic signs are strong predictors of female pattern hair loss, leading to a nomogram model for risk prediction. Our plain-language summary of this paper — not a Tressless recommendation.

The study examined 151 female pattern hair loss (FPHL) patients and 151 chronic telogen effluvium (CTE) patients, identifying trichoscopic features like brown or white peripilar signs and scalp pigmentation as more prevalent in FPHL. It found a genetic basis for FPHL, with a family history of androgenetic alopecia (AGA) and earlier onset of hair loss being common. A predictive model was developed, highlighting risk factors such as AGA family history, acne, seborrheic dermatitis, menstrual disorders, diet, sleep quality, and stress. The model aims to improve FPHL management by assessing risk, though the study notes limitations like recall bias and a small sample size, suggesting further research with larger cohorts.

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