1. Women and DHT Hair Loss
Women have the hormone testosterone, just not as much as men. However, DHT hair loss in women, also called androgenic alopecia, is different than in men. As such, experts prefer to use the term female pattern baldness because it includes all the many different types of hair loss in women. Science doesn't completely understand hair loss in women, but evidence indicates that multiple enzymes, hormones and blockers are at work.
2. Different Patterns for Different Genders
One reason scientists view perceived DHT hair loss in women cautiously is that women lose their hair in different patterns than men. In women, the receptor sites for hormones and enzymes are located in different spots on the scalp than in men. Consequently, female hair loss tends to be around the top of their head. Another difference is that women can lose their hair at any age. Even when a doctor diagnoses a woman with androgenic alopecia, another medical condition often causes the hair loss.
3. Underlying Culprits of Hair Loss in Women
That women are biologically different than men is not a news flash. However, some of the biological functions of a woman can be the true reason for female hair loss. For instance, women may experience a temporary change in hair growth called telogen effluvium after childbirth. Sometimes hair loss is the only symptom of a hormonal problem that is common in women, polycystic ovary syndrome. Other causes of hair loss in women include anemia, certain medications and autoimmune disorders such as alopecia areata.
4. Correct Diagnosis Paramount
In order for a woman to receive the right treatment, she must get the right diagnosis. A doctor needs to treat any underlying condition, such as anemia, that may be responsible for female hair loss first. Women should look for a doctor who has experience with female pattern baldness and get the necessary tests to rule out other causes besides DHT hair loss. These could include blood tests or a biopsy of the scalp. Otherwise, women could spend time and money on treatments that don't work.
5. Rogaine for Women and DHT Hair Loss
If the cause of a woman's hair loss is indeed DHT, the Federal Drug Administration has approved Rogaine, also known as minoxidil, for use in women. This medication does not require a prescription, but women take a lower dose than men. Be sure to speak with your doctor or pharmacist about what is right for you. The drug works effectively in the front and the back of the head in women with DHT hair loss. Since DHT shrinks the hair follicles, Rogaine swells part of the follicle's structure, keeping it open so new hair can grow.
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