Hair Loss and PCOS: Androgenic Alopecia

Hair loss is a major concern for women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Understanding the causes and treatments of hair loss related to PCOS, including natural solutions, is essential.

What is PCOS?

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common metabolic disorder in women of reproductive age. It is characterized by follicles on the ovaries, leading to symptoms such as irregular menstruation, excessive hair growth, acne, and hair loss. PCOS is associated with hormonal imbalance, marked by elevated levels of androgens (hyperandrogenism).

Causes of PCOS

• Genetics: PCOS can be hereditary.
• Insulin Resistance: Leads to excessive production of insulin and androgens by the ovaries.
• Low-Grade Inflammation: Stimulates the ovaries to produce androgens.
• Excess Androgens: Causes acne, hirsutism, and hair loss.

Causes of Hair Loss

Hair loss in women can be caused by several factors:

1. Hormonal Imbalance

Elevated Androgens: High levels of androgens (testosterone and DHT) are a major cause of hair loss in women with PCOS.
Estrogens:

• Menstruation: Decreased estrogen levels can weaken hair.
• Pregnancy: After childbirth, estrogen production drops, making hair more brittle.
• Menopause: Women lose about 80% of their estrogen, increasing the risk of hair loss.

DHEA (Dehydroepiandrosterone):

Produced by the adrenal glands, DHEA is a precursor to androgens and estrogens. Elevated levels of DHEA in women with PCOS can contribute to hyperandrogenism and hair loss by stimulating the production of DHT, an androgen hormone that shrinks hair follicles and causes miniaturization.

Stress and Hair Loss Cortisol, the stress hormone, is produced by the adrenal glands in response to stress. Elevated cortisol levels can disrupt the hair growth cycle, leading to diffuse hair loss.

Thyroid Issues and Hair Loss TSH regulates thyroid function. Thyroid imbalances can cause diffuse hair loss known as telogen effluvium.

PCOS and Hair Loss DHT, derived from testosterone, is responsible for androgenetic hair loss. It binds to hair follicle receptors, reducing their size and ability to produce strong hair.

1. Genetic and Hereditary Factors

   • If family members have hair loss, you are more likely to experience similar issues.

2. Emotional Shock and Stress

   • Stress, anxiety, or emotional shock can cause hair loss by affecting hormonal production.

3. Nutritional Disorders

   • An unbalanced diet or deficiencies in essential nutrients like iron, vitamin B, and zinc can lead to hair loss.

4. Medication

   • Certain medications, such as chemotherapy drugs, contraceptives, anticoagulants, and antidepressants, can cause hair loss.

5. Smoking

   • Smoking leads to poor oxygenation and reduced blood flow to the scalp, slowing hair growth.

6. Seasonal Changes

   • Seasonal changes, particularly in autumn and spring, are often associated with hair loss.

Differentiating Types of Hair Loss

It is crucial to distinguish between different types of hair loss for appropriate treatment:

• Telogen Effluvium and PCOS

  • Telogen effluvium is diffuse hair loss following stress, illness, or hormonal changes.

• Alopecia Areata and PCOS

  • Alopecia areata is an autoimmune condition causing patchy hair loss.

• Androgenic Alopecia and PCOS

  • Androgenic alopecia is the most common cause of hair loss in women with PCOS, due to increased sensitivity of hair follicles to androgens, particularly DHT.

Hair Growth Cycle Phases:

• Anagen Phase: Growth phase, lasts about 5 years.
• Catagen Phase: Pre-shedding phase, lasts about 3 weeks.
• Telogen Phase: Shedding phase, lasts about 3 months. In androgenetic alopecia, androgens accelerate the transition of hair from the anagen phase to the telogen phase, resulting in finer regrowth.

Specialists to Consult

• For diagnosing and treating hair loss related to PCOS, consult an endocrinologist and a dermatologist.

Medical Treatments

• Minoxidil and PCOS: Minoxidil extends the anagen phase of hair, promoting stronger hair regrowth. However, side effects like temporary increased hair loss and excess body hair may occur.

• Spironolactone for Hair Loss: Spironolactone is a diuretic used to treat hormonal hair loss in women. It blocks androgens, reducing hair loss. However, it may have side effects and is not recommended for pregnant women.

Surgical Treatments

• Low-Level Laser Therapy: Stimulates hair growth.
• Hair Transplant: Transplants hair follicles.

Natural Solutions for Androgenic Alopecia Related to PCOS

• Addressing the underlying cause of PCOS is essential for reducing symptoms of androgenic alopecia. A holistic approach including a balanced diet, dietary supplements, and herbs can be effective.

Supplements for Hair Loss Related to PCOS

• Biotin (Vitamin B7): Supports keratin production.
• Vitamin D: Crucial for creating new hair follicles.
• Magnesium: Essential for healthy hair follicle function.
• Iron: Maintains healthy hair growth.
• Zinc: Vital for hair tissue growth and repair.
• Omega-3: Nourishes hair and supports thickness and shine.

Herbs for Hormones:

• Reduce DHEA:

  • Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra): Inhibits the conversion of DHEA to androgens.

• Reduce DHT:

  • Saw Palmetto (Serenoa repens): Inhibits the conversion of testosterone to DHT.
  • Nettle (Urtica dioica): Blocks the conversion of testosterone to DHT.

• Reduce Cortisol:

  • Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera): Reduces cortisol levels.
  • Rhodiola (Rhodiola rosea): Reduces stress and cortisol levels.

Hair Care Routine

• Use sulfate- and paraben-free shampoos. Scalp massages with essential oils like peppermint oil can stimulate blood circulation.

Conclusion

By understanding the causes of your hair loss and consulting appropriate specialists, you can find suitable solutions. From medical treatments to natural remedies, a holistic approach is often the most effective way to manage PCOS-related hair loss and improve overall hair health.