Categories: Female Pattern Baldness Treatment

3 Common Treatments for Female Pattern Baldness

Female pattern baldness is a type of hair loss that women develop. Formally termed androgenetic alopecia, it is the female version of male pattern baldness, with a different hair loss pattern. Hair loss is a normal part of the aging process for women, and most report some hair loss after menopause. Female pattern baldness is also more likely to occur after menopause, and the hormonal changes that take place during that period might be responsible for the condition.

It can be challenging to separate between normal hair loss and female pattern baldness, so women over the age of 65 who experience hair loss should visit a hair doctor as soon as possible. The earlier any type of hair loss is treated, the more likely it can be stopped or even reversed.

3 Common treatment options for female pattern baldness

The following are some of the treatment options a hair doctor might recommend for female hair loss:

1. Minoxidil

This is currently the only drug with the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) approval as a treatment for female pattern baldness. It is typically sold in 2% or 5% minoxidil concentrations. Products that contain up to 5% minoxidil tend to be the most effective against female baldness. These products are also an effective way to address male pattern baldness.

Minoxidil products should be used daily for best results. It can take up to three months to get noticeable results, but many people report thicker hair after continued use.

2. Dutasteride and finasteride

Both chemicals have received the FDA’s stamp of approval as a treatment for male pattern baldness, but they have not yet been approved for use by women. However, studies indicate these products can also be effective at slowing down or reversing female hair loss.

Women who are pregnant should avoid taking these products since they increase the child’s risk of developing a defect.

3. Spironolactone

Spironolactone is primarily used as a diuretic, meaning it helps eliminate excess fluids in the body. It can also be used to block androgen creation and help regrow hair lost due to issues like female baldness.

Spironolactone tends to cause more side effects than the other treatment options listed above, so patients have to get regular electrolyte and blood pressure tests while using this drug. Some of its side effects include fatigue, tender breasts, and electrolyte imbalances.

Other treatment options

Female baldness can be caused by nutritional deficiencies like not getting enough folic acid, biotin, or iron. In such cases, the hair doctor can address the patient’s condition by prescribing an appropriate supplement. Other nutrients like omega-6 fatty acids and antioxidants can also be used to combat hair loss.

Other less common treatments for hair loss include:

FDA-approved laser helmets and combs that stimulate hair growth with light energy
Platelet-rich plasma therapy can be used to stimulate hair growth
Hair transplants can be used to transfer hair from healthy areas of the head to balding spots