Female Pattern Hair Loss: What You Should Know About Androgenetic Alopecia
You're not alone if your hair is thinning or shedding more than usual. Around 30 million American women have female pattern hair loss, also known as androgenetic alopecia, today. At Dermatology Treatment and Research Center, the experienced team of dermatology specialists offers comprehensive solutions for hair loss. As clinical research and treatment leaders in the Dallas, Texas, area, the practice is the go-to place for many women struggling with frustrating hair loss.
The first step in managing androgenetic alopecia is understanding the origins of the disease.
What Causes Female Pattern Hair Loss?
Female pattern hair loss is most commonly caused by genetics, meaning if hair loss runs in your family, you may be more prone to it. Women who develop androgenetic alopecia sometimes have a higher-than-usual level of androgens ("male" hormones, which all women have as well). However, in most cases, women with androgenetic alopecia have normal circulating androgen levels. This means that the specific way the disease develops is still unclear.
With androgenetic alopecia, experts believe that the androgens interact with the androgen receptor in a specific way, causing large follicles to shrink and become inactive. Interestingly, the specific genes that contribute to female pattern hair loss are different than those that lead to male pattern hair loss. Regardless of cause, androgenetic alopecia can cause disruptive and distressing hair loss in both sexes.
Symptoms of Androgenetic Alopecia
While male pattern hair loss usually creates an "M" shape on the scalp, the thinning is more widespread in women with pattern hair loss. Most women don't experience hair recession with female pattern hair loss, but you may notice:
- Thinning on top of your head
- A widening part line
- Hair falling out when washing your hair
- A lot of hair in your brush, on your pillow, or in the shower drain
Hair loss may progress slowly over time, or in some cases, it can happen more suddenly. The earlier you react to the signs of androgenetic alopecia, the better your chances of slowing or reversing it.
Treatment Options for Female Hair Loss
Dermatology Treatment and Research Center offers many treatments to help manage androgenetic alopecia. These include:
- Topical Treatments: Topical solutions, such as minoxidil, can stimulate hair growth and help slow hair loss.
- Hormonal Therapy: Oral contraceptives can help regulate hormones that may be contributing to hair loss.
- Laser Therapy: Low-level laser therapy can improve hair density and reduce shedding.
Other options are also available, including hair transplants. Clinical trials to test new drugs for androgenetic alopecia may be available, so speak to the research coordinators if you're interested. Your dermatologist will work with you to create a personalized treatment plan to help restore your hair's health.
Help With Female Pattern Hair Loss in Dallas
If you're ready to explore treatment options with the leading Dallas hair loss specialists, call 972-661-2729 to schedule your consultation at the Dermatology Treatment and Research Center today.