My Testimony and Routine for Androgenic Alopecia and PCOS

Hello everyone, my name is Imane. I am an author, naturopath, trained in nutritional therapy, and the founder of Imane Harmonie. My journey with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) began in 2015, after experiencing severe hair loss and worsening acne. Diagnosed that year, I finally found answers to my health issues. If you'd like to learn more about my experience, I invite you to read my book Living in Harmony with PCOS, published by GRANCHER Editions.

Understanding PCOS and Its Impact

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal disorder among women of reproductive age. It is characterized by the presence of cysts on the ovaries, excessive production of androgens (male hormones), and irregular menstrual cycles. The symptoms of PCOS vary from woman to woman but often include acne, excessive hair growth, weight gain, and, most notably, androgenic alopecia—diffuse hair loss.

Androgenic alopecia in women is often underdiagnosed and can be extremely stressful, impacting self-esteem and quality of life. The link between hormones and hair loss is direct: androgens, particularly testosterone and its active form, dihydrotestosterone (DHT), play a key role. DHT binds to receptors in hair follicles, causing them to shrink, which slows hair growth and makes it thinner.

My Journey with Dietary Supplements and Nutrition

To combat deficiencies affecting hair loss, I take daily supplements from my own brand, Imane Harmonie: Hair'a in the evening, and Luminaissance and Gaia in the morning. Luminaissance is particularly effective in regulating my menstrual cycle.

My diet is rigorously controlled. I limit sugar intake and prioritize proteins, as a diet high in refined sugars can worsen insulin resistance, a common issue in women with PCOS. Insulin resistance leads to excessive androgen production by the ovaries, exacerbating PCOS symptoms, including alopecia.

Additionally, I maintain a regular exercise routine aimed at building muscle mass and reducing insulin resistance. Physical activity improves insulin sensitivity and helps balance hormone levels.

My Hair Care Routine

Ayurvedic Powders

During periods of intense hair loss, I incorporated Ayurvedic powders into my hair care routine: bhringraj, brahmi, amla, and kippour kachli, mixed with stimulating essential oils once a week. These powders have been used for centuries in India for their beneficial properties for hair health.

• Bhringraj: Known as the "queen of hair," this powder is renowned for strengthening hair and stimulating growth.
• Brahmi: This powder helps soothe the scalp and strengthen hair roots.
• Amla: Rich in vitamin C, it nourishes the hair and promotes growth.
• Kippour Kachli: Used for its stimulating effect on the scalp and its ability to thicken hair.

Essential Oils

Essential oils are essential allies in stimulating hair growth. With their warming, stimulating, and circulatory properties, they promote microcirculation in the scalp, improving nutrient delivery to hair follicles. I use them diluted in a vegetable oil and massage them into my scalp before shampooing.

• Rosemary cineole essential oil: Known for its revitalizing properties, it is ideal for hair care. It stimulates blood circulation in the scalp, promoting hair growth.
• Provence Cypress essential oil: Renowned for its tonic and circulatory qualities, it helps strengthen hair and prevent hair loss.
• Bay Saint Thomas essential oil: With its warming and stimulating effects, it slows hair loss and encourages growth. It is also effective against dandruff.

Vegetable Oils

Vegetable oils also play a crucial role in my hair care routine. Mustard oil, with its warming effect, is particularly effective in stimulating hair growth and combating hair loss. It is often combined with castor, coconut, or avocado oil to create serums and oil treatments.

• Mustard Oil: Known for its warming and stimulating properties, it promotes hair growth and improves blood circulation in the scalp.

Scalp Massages and Serums for Hair Loss

To stimulate hair growth, I perform scalp massages using a plastic brush, applied only on dry hair. These massages improve blood circulation in the scalp, promoting nutrient supply to the hair follicles.

Three times a week, I apply the anti-hair loss serum with peptides and pea extract from Aroma-Zone. This serum, made with peptides, pea extract, and red clover, is designed to thicken and strengthen hair from the root. Its cocktail of active ingredients balances the hair growth cycle, prolongs the growth phase, and promotes hair anchorage for thicker, stronger hair.

Additionally, I use a 0.05 mm dermaroller, a natural and effective solution to stimulate hair follicles, improving hair density and quality. The dermaroller creates micro-perforations in the scalp, increasing product absorption and stimulating collagen production. I personally disinfect it before each use and apply it to hairless areas.

Conclusion

Fighting androgenic alopecia and managing PCOS is a complex journey, but it’s possible with a holistic approach that includes appropriate hair care, a balanced diet, and targeted supplements. My experience aims to inspire and support those going through similar challenges. With patience and perseverance, it is possible to regain healthy hair and live in harmony with your body.

I encourage you not to give up and to explore the various options available to you. Every woman is unique, and it is essential to find what works best for you. Don’t hesitate to consult healthcare professionals and experiment with different treatments to find your balance. Together, we can overcome the challenges of PCOS and androgenic alopecia and regain confidence and peace.