The high levels of these male hormones causes hair loss that is different from male pattern baldness. Androgenic alopecia doesn’t cause hair loss on the crown but instead causes a thinning of hair at the scalp.
There are several treatments available for women with PCOS who experience hair loss. You should try these remedies before opting for hair restoration surgery which is an expensive proposition. However, consult your doctor on the safety of these remedies if you are pregnant or trying to conceive.
Some of the remedies for androgenic alopecia include:
- Nizoral Shampoo : This is an anti-dandruff shampoo containing an anti-fungal agent known as ketoconazole. It helps to block the conversion of testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which is the derivative that actually causes hair loss. Use this shampoo on alternate days and leave it on for a few minutes before rinsing.
- Spironolactone (Aldactone): This medication is classified as a potassium-sparing diuretic and is usually used to treat hypertension and edema. It helps to reduce the production of androgens and prevents DHT from binding to receptors in hair follicles and causing hair loss. This medication will require a doctor’s prescription and you will have to have your potassium levels monitored.
- Minoxidil: This medication when applied topically, stimulates hair growth and is reputed to have no side effects. The FDA has approved a 2% concentration solution for women and not 5%. Consult your doctor about taking 5% strength minoxidil in case the lower strength version is ineffective.
- Androgen Blocking Medications: These medications may be used along with birth control pills to reduce the production and action of androgens that cause hair loss. Consult your doctor before trying this remedy.
- Cimetidine (Tagamet): Used as a histamine blocker in the treatment of gastrointestinal ulcers, this medication has a potent anti-androgenic effect by preventing DHT from binding to receptor sites in hair follicles.
- Natural Progesterone Cream: It inhibits the conversion of DHT from testosterone by balancing estrogen levels in the body.
- Saw Palmetto: This herb which can be had in the form of a supplement as it also blocks the conversion of testosterone into DHT.
answered by A S