Hair loss, a condition often associated primarily with men, is surprisingly prevalent in women as well. In fact, research indicates that nearly 40% of women experience visible hair loss by the time they reach age 50. More than half of women will experience some degree of hair thinning after age 50. Although common, female hair loss remains a rarely spoken-about topic, shrouded in stigma. We aim to shed light on this widespread issue, delving into the causes, effects, and a groundbreaking treatment approach at LUMEN for hair loss in women.
What Causes Hair Loss in Women?
Hair loss in women is a complex issue with a multitude of causes. Let’s delve into some of the most common ones.
Hormonal Imbalance: Hormonal changes can significantly impact hair health. A prevalent cause of such imbalances is polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), characterized by cysts on a woman’s ovaries, which can lead to hair loss, among other symptoms. Hormonal changes during pregnancy, perimenopause, and menopause may also cause thinning hair.
Nutrient Deficiencies: Deficiencies in vitamins and minerals like iron can lead to a condition known as telogen effluvium, resulting in hair loss.
Hormones: Monthly cycles, pregnancies, and menopause mean hormones are always up and down. This makes things tricky when it comes to treating hair loss.
Limited Arsenal: There are tons of FDA-approved treatments for men, but only one for women – topical minoxidil. And we don’t find it nearly as effective as the treatment options we offer at LUMEN. In addition, women are contraindicated for certain medications.
Challenging Hair Transplants: For men, hair loss often kicks off at the temples and top of the head, sometimes leading to full-on baldness. On the other hand, women usually see thinning on the top in patches and at the front of the head, while the back remains pretty much untouched. Plus, the hairline stays where it is. That makes women often poor candidates for hair transplants that focus more on recreating the hairline and filling in very sparse areas.
Our Groundbreaking New Treatment for Female Hair Loss
At LUMEN, we developed a three-pronged approach to treating hair loss in women that has helped many patients. We have found that the combination of oral minoxidil and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy is like the dynamic duo of hair rejuvenation. We layer in scalp micropigmentation (SMP) at the beginning of the treatment process to create the immediate appearance of density. Here’s why it works:
- PRP therapy sounds the foundation for thicker, healthier hair. This treatment involves drawing some of your own blood, spinning it in a centrifuge to concentrate the platelets, and then injecting it back into your scalp. Those platelets are rich in growth factors that stimulate hair growth and can even wake up dormant hair follicles. Numerous studies have shown it reduces hair loss, thickens hair, and increases the density of hair growth. The International Journal of Women’s Dermatology published a review of clinical trials stating that PRP therapy was a promising treatment for androgenic alopecia.
- Oral minoxidil, which you might know as the blood pressure medication Loniten, works by extending the growth phase of your hair follicles. It also widens the hair follicle itself, which can help produce thicker strands. This little pill works wonders to help make your hair look fuller and healthier. And recent studies back this up.
- Scalp Micropigmentation is an innovative, non-surgical technique for those who want immediate, noticeable results. Using micro-needles to deposit pigment into the scalp, SMP instantly enhances the perception of fuller, denser hair. It helps to restore your confidence while minoxidil and PRP take effect.
This treatment trifecta can be a game-changer. SMP kickstarts your aesthetic goals. Oral minoxidil sets the stage for fuller, healthier hair, and PRP therapy gives your hair follicles an extra boost. This approach tackles hair loss from multiple angles – giving immediate and long-term results – and is potentially more effective than other treatment options.
Combatting Hair Loss? We’re Here for You
While hair loss can be distressing, it’s crucial to remember that it is a common issue faced by women worldwide. There are several effective treatments for women dealing with hair loss. While we have an innovative and distinct treatment approach that works for many women, we know every person is unique, and what works for one might not work for another. At LUMEN, we create a treatment plan that’s just for you, and have other effective treatment options as well. We’ll help you understand the potential benefits and risks and guide you on the best course of action for your specific situation.
We’re here to help women dealing with hair loss in the Philadelphia area and beyond. For more information or to schedule a free consultation, please contact us at 610.525.0606.