From the Guidelines
Female hair loss can be effectively treated with platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections, which have been shown to stimulate hair follicles and promote hair growth, as supported by the most recent and highest quality study 1. The treatment options for female hair loss are varied and include both over-the-counter and prescription medications, as well as lifestyle modifications. Some key points to consider when treating female hair loss include:
- PRP injections, which use the patient's own blood components to stimulate hair follicles, have been shown to be effective in promoting hair growth, with a significant increase in hair density and follicle diameter 1.
- The optimal number of PRP treatments, interval between treatment, and amount of PRP injected per treatment are still being researched, but a minimum of 3-5 sessions with a 1-month interval between sessions is recommended 1.
- Low-level laser therapy devices, used 3 times weekly for 15-30 minutes, can also promote hair growth by stimulating hair follicles.
- Hair transplantation is a surgical option for permanent hair restoration, which can be used in conjunction with other treatments such as PRP injections.
- Addressing underlying causes like nutritional deficiencies (iron, vitamin D, zinc) through supplements and managing stress through relaxation techniques can also improve outcomes.
- Minoxidil (brand name Rogaine) is a common first-line treatment, available as a 2% or 5% topical solution applied twice daily to the scalp, with results typically seen after 4-6 months of consistent use.
- Prescription options include oral finasteride (1mg daily) and spironolactone (50-200mg daily), which block androgens that can contribute to hair loss, although these are used cautiously in women of childbearing age due to potential birth defects.
- For women with confirmed hormonal imbalances, oral contraceptives containing low-androgen progestins may help promote hair growth. It is essential to consider the individual patient's needs and medical history when selecting a treatment option, and to discuss the potential benefits and risks of each treatment with a healthcare professional.
From the Research
Treatment Options for Female Hair Loss
Female hair loss, also known as female pattern hair loss (FPHL), is a common condition that can be treated with various options. The treatment approach depends on the underlying cause of hair loss, which can be due to androgenetic alopecia, hormonal imbalances, or other factors.
Medical Treatments
- Topical minoxidil (2-5% twice daily) is a common treatment for FPHL, as it helps to stimulate hair growth and slow down hair loss 2.
- Systemic antiandrogenic therapy, such as spironolactone, cyproterone acetate, and finasteride, may be prescribed for women with high levels of androgens 2, 3.
- Oral spironolactone has been shown to be effective in treating FPHL, with a significant percentage of women achieving partial hair regrowth 3, 4.
- Finasteride, a 5-alpha-reductase inhibitor, may also be used to treat FPHL, especially in postmenopausal women 2, 4.
Combination Therapies
- The combination of topical minoxidil and oral spironolactone has been shown to be more effective than the combination of topical minoxidil and oral finasteride in women with androgenic alopecia 4.
- Combination regimens, such as topical minoxidil and oral antiandrogens, may be proposed for women with FPHL 5.
Non-Medical Treatments
- Dermatocosmetic concealment, such as hairpieces or hair prosthesis, can be useful for women with FPHL 2.
- Weight loss may also improve hair loss in hyperandrogenic women 2.