PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome), a common condition affecting the hormones, can cause irregular menstrual periods, infertility, excess hair growth, and acne. PCOS is a hormonal disorder that affects between seven and 10 percent of women of childbearing age, or five to six million women in the United States. It happens to be the most common cause of infertility, and many women don’t even know they have it; however, it can come with another side effect: hair loss. Today we will explore the top recommended treatments for PCOS-related hair loss and provide actionable solutions.
Women with (PCOS) often experience thinning hair due to excess androgen levels, which are commonly known as male hormones like testosterone. The good news is, after your hormone levels have been checked by a hair loss specialist and are in proper balance, you could be a suitable candidate for PCOS-related hair loss treatments. Hair loss associated with PCOS is typically known as Androgenic Alopecia, which is more commonly known as female pattern hair loss (FPHL).
PCOS is a hormonal imbalance that affects women’s reproductive health. In women with PCOS, the ovaries produce extremely high levels of hormones known as androgens, causing an imbalance in reproductive hormones. This is why women with PCOS often have irregular or missed periods, and unpredictable ovulation.
Elevated levels of androgens (male hormones) can lead to hair thinning and female-pattern baldness. Androgenetic Alopecia, AKA female pattern hair loss (FPHL), is a common type of hair loss affecting females. Androgens play a role in male sexual development, but they also play other roles in both males and females, such as regulating hair growth.
Hair growth from a follicle is cyclical, and as such goes through different phases of rest and shedding, over and over. Androgens work to help control this cycle, but sometimes too many androgens can overstimulate your hair follicles, resulting in shorter growth periods and thinner strands of hair.
Elevated androgens in some women with PCOS may be managed with specific birth control pills which can block the negative effects on hair. Others may be good candidates for PCOS hair loss treatments.
Insulin levels should be checked as well. This is a hormone responsible for controlling blood sugar levels. Cells that are resistant to insulin prompt the body to release even more insulin, leaving blood sugar levels abnormally elevated. Insulin resistance affects PCOS and hair loss because higher insulin levels result in higher androgen levels.
From topical treatments to laser therapy, there are many treatments that may help with PCOS-related hair loss.
Minoxidil (“Rogaine for women") is the only FDA-approved topical product for Androgenic Alopecia. There is a 2% and 5% strength, in both a liquid and foam for topical use. There is also an oral Minoxidil option, and both work to stimulate regrowth and restore follicle health.
Spironolactone is sometimes prescribed when other treatments, mainly Minoxidil, do not work. It works by blocking androgens (hair loss-inducing hormones) and promoting hair regrowth.
Oral contraceptives can also help balance hormones and reduce hair loss. Some birth control pills, typically those with higher estrogen and lower androgen content, reduce hair loss by balancing hormones and extending the hair growth phase.
Platelet Rich Plasma Therapy, or PRP Therapy, is only recommended once hormone levels are in normal range. This approach relies on platelet-rich portions of blood filled with growth factors to safely and naturally stimulate regeneration and recovery. This is most often used to effectively treat Androgenic Alopecia (Female Pattern Hair Loss), and other types of hair loss.
Optimal Platelet Concentration™ Therapy, like PPC, is also only recommended once hormone levels are in normal range. This approach relies on platelet-rich plasma to encourage the restoration of blood vessels and hair follicles. It is shown to be effective with patients with Androgenic Alopecia.
Peptides can also help to augment hair growth by lowering inflammation at the scalp. This sends blood flow to the hair follicle and wards off free radicals that can result in excess hair loss.
Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) is a non-surgical procedure that addresses female hair loss by stimulating follicle growth and encouraging healthier hair growth.
In addition to PCOS hair loss treatment, there are some lifestyle changes you can incorporate into your life to further support hair health.
A balanced diet rich in protein, healthy fats, and low-glycemic index foods can help manage symptoms and promote hair growth. Anti-inflammatory foods play a vital role in managing PCOS-related hair loss. Omega-3 fatty acids contained in mackerel, salmon, and tuna, for instance, have anti-inflammatory properties. Inflammation can aggravate symptoms, so people with PCOS should stay away from fried foods, processed snacks, and saturated fats, says Johns Hopkins Medicine.
Engaging in regular exercise can help with hormone balance and insulin resistance, potentially improving hair health. Staying physically fit can improve insulin sensitivity, promote weight loss, regulate hormones, and reduce the risk of related health complications such as heart disease and diabetes.
Supplements and vitamins can also address PCOS-Related Hair Loss, such as Biotin, Vitamin D, Zinc, and Iron. All of these play a role in promoting hair regrowth. Iron, for instance, helps the body produce hemoglobin. This is a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen to cells, including those found in hair follicles. Follicles need oxygen to grow and repair. Severe iron deficiency anemia may cause hair loss, specifically Androgenetic Alopecia.
The Medi Tresse store makes it easy for you, with recommended supplements and vitamins tailored for those with PCOS. Every product here was developed and approved by the female hair loss specialists at Medi Tresse.
As you can see, there are many treatments, vitamins, supplements, and lifestyle changes that can help address PCOS hair loss. It’s important to take a holistic approach to managing PCOS-related hair loss with the right combination of treatments, nutrition, and supplements. Contact Medi Tresse today for a consultation and personalized treatment plans to address PCOS-related hair loss.
