Hair loss can be a challenging experience for anyone, as the condition comes with emotional and mental stigma. It can especially be daunting for transgender and gender diverse individuals experiencing MTF hair loss / FTM hair loss. Gender affirming treatments can directly affect the hair. The good news is that, regardless of the cause, there are often effective treatments available for individuals experiencing MTF hair loss / FTM hair loss or balding.
A recent study found that the prevalence of androgenic alopecia was 2.5 times greater in trans males utilizing masculinizing gender-affirming hormone therapy (testosterone) compared to cisgender women. The study also found that the pattern hair loss was 1.3 times greater when compared to cisgender men.
Similarly, the same study shows the prevalence of androgenic alopecia was 1.9 times greater in trans women utilizing feminizing gender-affirming hormone therapy than cisgender women. This likely has less to do with the hormone therapy - which can actually help with the pattern hair loss - and more to do with the individual having a higher rate of testosterone prior to hormone therapy. Prevalence of pattern hair loss was not statistically significantly increased compared to cisgendered men.
Scarring Alopecia and Alopecia Areta must be ruled out from these considerations of hair loss for transgender individuals. This is because there has been an increase in all populations for these types of hair loss. Only an experienced hair loss specialist can diagnose these types of hair loss using trichoscopy.
Patients undergo a lot of physical, mental, and emotional stress after any surgery, but especially after gender-affirming surgery. This can cause Telogen Effluvium shedding approximately 3 - 6 months after surgery.
As with every patient who walks into a Medi Tresse office, there are hair loss treatments for transgender patients that can help treat the hair loss, inclusive of those transitioning. Our customized treatment plans were created with you in mind.
It’s important to note that not every treatment is the best one for every individual. Everyone is different, and has their own unique experiences surrounding hair loss. Our hair loss experts will help you decide on what is the best treatment plan for you during your initial consultation.
Below are some of the most common and recommended treatments:
Thankfully, Telogen Effluvium is a temporary condition that can be treated and hair can be restored after about a year.
Telogen Effluvium usually presents as excessive shedding and can occur from all parts of the scalp. In most cases, Telogen Effluvium can resolve on its own. However, if a patient is finding that it is not resolving, TE can be helped with the following treatments:
Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT): LLLT utilizes a laser cap device through cool beam lasers that directly affect the scalp by promoting hair regrowth right at the follicle. Red and near-infrared laser light can encourage tissue repair and recovery. LLLT is a safe, comfortable, and non-invasive treatment option that stimulates hair regrowth simultaneously. Read more about choosing the right laser cap device for your treatment plan here.
Hair Growth Supplements: Hair growth supplements can help to promote and boost rejuvenation in the hair follicle. Similar to prescription Minoxidil, supplements can be taken to enhance the treatment plan.
At Medi Tresse, we understand that knowing your options and choosing the treatment that is best for you can be overwhelming. This is why we book an initial consultation with every patient who walks through our doors.
It’s essential to provide all relevant information to our team during your initial consultation. This includes any upcoming medical procedures, such as gender-affirming surgeries. Additionally, knowing any hormone therapy medications can assist in determining the best treatment option for you, as well as potentially altering the effectiveness of said treatments. This also helps to decide when to start treatment.
If PRP/OPC is part of the treatment plan, we would likely put the treatment on hold if there are any upcoming surgeries. Similarly, any forthcoming changes to hormone therapy could potentially affect the treatment plan.
Medi Tresse has two main priorities. First, we provide safe and empathetic care to all of our patients. Second, we provide customized treatment plans that take into account each patient’s unique hair loss situation. We understand that dealing with hair loss can be a difficult situation, and there is no one-size approach for every patient.
At Medi Tresse, we understand that the treatment considerations for one patient’s hair loss is going to be unique. This is no different for every transgender and gender diverse patient. We recognize that each patient has unique hair loss needs and considerations for treatment. We are confident that our caring team will create the best possible treatment plans.
If you are experiencing hair loss because of gender affirming surgery, don't hesitate to get in touch with the Medi Tresse office closest to you to book your consultation.
