The most common type of hair loss in women is androgenic alopecia, or female-pattern baldness. It is characterized by thinning at the front, sides and top of the head. Female-pattern baldness is classified as a permanent form of hair loss, states to the Mayo Clinic. However, some women may benefit from using topical minoxidil, an FDA-approved treatment for hair loss.
Basics
The normal life cycle of a hair has two stages, the growing phase and the resting phase. The growing phase, called anagen, usually lasts for about two to three years. It is followed by telogen, the resting phase, which in turn lasts for about three to four months. Telogen ends when the hair falls out, making room for new growth.
In women with androgenic alopecia, the growing phase shortens. Hair becomes weaker, falls out more easily and eventually stops being replaced. Though there is no concrete understanding as to why female-pattern baldness occurs, possible factors include hormones, age and genes, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Minoxidil
Topical minoxidil is commonly identified by the brand name Rogaine. It is available without prescription in 2 percent and 5 percent formulations, though only 2 percent minoxidil is FDA-approved for women. According to a study published in the "Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology," minoxidil typically produced "good results" in women with mild to moderate androgenic alopecia.
Treatment
According to Rogaine product information, topical minoxidil should be applied directly to the scalp two times a day. New hair tends to be soft and barely visible, and may not appear for four months or more, states Drugs.com. With time and continued treatment, however, the new growth will start to look more like the existing hair.
Considerations
Rogaine will not work for everyone. Users who do not experience hair regrowth within four months should consider stopping the treatment, says Drugs.com. Furthermore, minoxidil is a temporary solution, not a cure. If treatment is stopped, new growth will fall out and hair loss will continue.
Side Effects and Warning
Mild side effects of topical minoxidil use are irritation and headache. More severe effects include allergic reactions marked by difficulty breathing and swelling of the face, along with chest pain, irregular heartbeat and dizziness. Seek medical attention if these symptoms occur. Rogaine may not be appropriate for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Consult a physician before using Rogaine.
References
- Mayo Clinic: Hair Loss
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Female-Pattern Baldness
- "Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology"; Management of Androgenetic Alopecia; A. Tosti, F. Camacho-Martinez and R. Dawber; May 1999
- Drugs: Rogaine
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