A Guide To Addressing And Reversing Hormonal Hair Loss

Hair loss can be a distressing experience for both men and women, impacting self-esteem and confidence. While there are various causes of hair loss, one prevalent factor is hormonal imbalance. Hormonal hair loss occurs when fluctuations in hormones, such as testosterone, oestrogen, and thyroid hormones, disrupt the natural hair growth cycle¹. Understanding how to address and reverse hormonal hair loss is crucial for individuals seeking to regain healthy, fuller hair and boost their confidence.

What is hormonal hair loss?

Hormonal hair loss, also known as androgenetic alopecia, is the most common form of hair loss, affecting millions of people worldwide². It occurs when hair follicles become sensitive to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone derived from testosterone. DHT binds to hair follicles, which causes them to shrink over time and produce finer, shorter hair strands. Eventually, affected follicles may stop producing hair altogether, leading to baldness.

Factors contributing to hormonal hair loss

Several factors contribute to hormonal hair loss, including genetics, age, and hormonal fluctuations. Family history plays a significant role, with individuals having a genetic predisposition to androgenetic alopecia being more susceptible to hair loss. Age-related hormonal changes, such as menopause in women and ageing in men, can also trigger hair loss by disrupting hormone levels.

Additionally, certain medical conditions and medications can exacerbate hormonal imbalances and contribute to hair loss. Conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and thyroid disorders can disrupt hormone levels, leading to hair thinning and loss. Medications such as oral contraceptives, hormone replacement therapy, and some antidepressants may also impact hair growth.

Addressing hormonal imbalance

Addressing hormonal imbalance is key to managing and reversing hormonal hair loss. While genetic factors cannot be altered, several strategies can help balance hormone levels and promote hair regrowth.

Healthy diet

A balanced diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and protein is essential for maintaining hormone balance and supporting hair growth. Foods such as leafy greens, nuts, eggs, and fatty fish contain nutrients that nourish hair follicles and promote healthy hair growth.

Stress management

Chronic stress can disrupt hormone levels and contribute to hair loss. Practising stress-reducing techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, and yoga can help manage stress and promote overall well-being.

Regular exercise

Physical activity is beneficial for hormone regulation and overall health. Engaging in regular exercise can help reduce stress, improve circulation, and balance hormone levels, all of which contribute to healthy hair growth.

Avoiding hormonal disruptors

Limiting exposure to hormonal disruptors such as certain chemicals in skincare products, plastics, and environmental pollutants can help maintain hormone balance and prevent hair loss.

Reversing hormonal hair loss

While addressing hormonal imbalance is crucial for managing hair loss, specific treatments and therapies can help reverse the effects of hormonal hair loss and promote hair regrowth;

Topical treatments

Over-the-counter and prescription topical treatments containing minoxidil, a vasodilator, can stimulate hair follicles and promote hair regrowth. Additionally, topical treatments containing ingredients such as saw palmetto and caffeine may help block DHT and prevent further hair loss.

Prescription medications

Oral medications such as finasteride, a 5-alpha-reductase inhibitor, can help block the conversion of testosterone to DHT, reducing hair loss and promoting hair regrowth in men. Finasteride is also used in select situations in women but is contraindicated in pregnancy. On the other hand, anti-androgens like spironolactone may also be used in women for the management of female pattern hair loss as this not only helps to reduce the total testosterone levels but also blocks the androgenetic receptors in target tissues. This is not only beneficial in women for treatment of female pattern hair loss but can also help to improve symptoms of hormonal acne.

Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT)

LLLT devices, like laser helmets and combs, emit low-level laser light that promotes hair regrowth and stimulates hair follicles³. LLLT is a non-invasive treatment option that can be used at home or in a clinical setting.

Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy

PRP therapy is the act of injecting platelet-rich plasma derived from the patient’s blood into the scalp to stimulate hair follicles and promote hair regrowth. PRP contains growth factors that can enhance hair follicle function and encourage new hair growth.

Surgical options

In cases of advanced hair loss, surgical options such as hair transplantation may be considered at a reputable dermatology clinic. During a hair transplant procedure, hair follicles from a donor area of the scalp are transplanted to balding or thinning areas, restoring natural-looking hair growth.

Conclusion

Hormonal hair loss can be a challenging condition to manage, but with the right approach, it is possible to address and reverse its effects. By understanding the underlying causes of hormonal imbalance and implementing targeted treatments and therapies, individuals can promote healthy hair growth and regain confidence in their appearance. Whether through lifestyle modifications, topical treatments, or advanced therapies, taking proactive steps to combat hormonal hair loss can lead to healthier, fuller hair and improved quality of life.

At Angeline Yong Dermatology, we offer specialised care and expertise in treating hormonal hair loss. Our experienced dermatologist, Dr Angeline Yong, provides personalised treatment plans tailored to each patient’s unique needs. Additionally, as part of our comprehensive services, we also offer surgical hair restoration for patients who desire further improvement in existing areas of hair loss, and offer a full suite of dermatology services such as skin cancer screening in Singapore to ensure overall skin health and well-being. With our commitment to excellence and patient-centred care, we strive to help individuals achieve optimal hair growth and maintain healthy skin!

References

Grymowicz, M., Rudnicka, E., Podfigurna, A., Napierala, P., Smolarczyk, R., Smolarczyk, K., & Meczekalski, B. (2020). Hormonal Effects on Hair Follicles. International journal of molecular sciences, 21(15), 5342. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms21155342

Blume-Peytavi, U., Blumeyer, A., Tosti, A., Finner, A., Marmol, V., Trakatelli, M., Reygagne, P., Messenger, A., & European Consensus Group (2011). S1 guideline for diagnostic evaluation in androgenetic alopecia in men, women and adolescents. The British journal of dermatology, 164(1), 5–15. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-2133.2010.10011.x

Jimenez, J. J., Wikramanayake, T. C., Bergfeld, W., Hordinsky, M., Hickman, J. G., Hamblin, M. R., & Schachner, L. A. (2014). Efficacy and safety of a low-level laser device in the treatment of male and female pattern hair loss: a multicenter, randomized, sham device-controlled, double-blind study. American journal of clinical dermatology, 15(2), 115–127. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40257-013-0060-6

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A Guide To Addressing And Reversing Hormonal Hair Loss