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Conditions

Hair restoration · Hair-loss diagnosis and restoration

Female pattern hair loss

Understand a widening part and progressive thinning over the top of the scalp.

Editorial publication · Medical review pending.

Understand

Female pattern hair loss is progressive miniaturisation of follicles, mainly over the top of the scalp, without scarring destruction.

Possible symptoms

The part widens, a ponytail feels less dense and the top of the scalp thins, while the frontal hairline is often preserved.

Causes and associated factors

Genetic and hormonal factors contribute; it can sometimes accompany androgen excess, including polycystic ovary syndrome.

Diagnosis

The course, distribution, family history and scalp examination guide diagnosis, while other causes of diffuse loss must be excluded.

Tests

Depending on the history, testing may look for anaemia or iron deficiency, thyroid disease or signs of androgen excess; biopsy is rarely needed.

Course of the condition

Loss generally progresses slowly over years and does not usually lead to complete baldness.

Care options

Early medical treatment can slow progression; transplantation is suitable only for selected women with adequate donor density and stable diagnosis.

When to consult

Seek assessment when the part widens or density falls so this condition can be distinguished from reactive, hormonal, inflammatory or scarring loss.

Urgent help

Very rapid loss, new signs of virilisation, pain, inflammation or scarred areas warrants prompt medical advice.

Questions for your doctor

  • What is causing my hair loss?
  • Are the follicles still active or already scarred?
  • Which medical treatments should be tried or stabilised before a transplant?
  • Can my donor area support a realistic and lasting result?
  • Which scalp signs need prompt medical care?

Continue reading

A procedure linked to a condition does not establish an indication for your individual situation.

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