How can I fix my (female) androgenic alopecia due to PCOS? (Photo)

Question

I was diagnosed w/ PCOS 7 years ago, but had symptoms since 15. I am now 25. With a lot of exercise, complete change in diet, metformin & spironolactone, I could lose 25 lbs+. Acne was really bad & I more recently managed to control it w/ a higher dose of Spiro (200mg) & RetinA. However, the hair loss I suffered on the top of my head for 7+ years is very bad, and embarrassing. What do you recommend for my head to look normal again? IDK if it will ever regrow, so I'm open to surgery, transplants.

Anil R. Shah, MD · Answer

Hello, Please see below for possible treatments and tips.
Women are currently not FDA approved for the use of the ARTAS.  However, our use of the ARTAS does suggest that women who are experiencing androgenic alopecia may be good candidates.  As always, women should have a thorough workup including the following:
Trichoscopy- identify type of hair loss Extensive history and labs- rule out other forms of hair lossWe use ARTAS with regenerative techniques with women such as PRP and growth factors to help improve overall results.
Best,
Anil Shah

Jae Pak, MD · Answer

If you have hair loss due to a medical condition such as PCOS, the best treatment is to treat the underlying cause.  If you treat your medical condition such as PCOS your hair loss should improve.  For further treatment you need to see your doctor for options.

Renita (Lourdhurajan) Rajan, MD, DNB · Answer

Platelet rich plasma (PRP) and Low Level Lasers are good treatment options - considering that you have already been on antiandrogens as well. These may be combined with peptides which help in prolonging the anagen (growth ) phase. Good luck!

Jeff Donovan, MD, PhD · Answer

In general, options for women with PCOS include:1. minoxidil 2. spironolactone3. low level laser therapy4. platelet rich plasma5. hair transplantation. You are a candidate for hair transplantation (in the mid-scalp area) based on the photos uploaded, so you may want to learn more about this option and visit several surgeons. Preventing further loss is important - so minoxidil, low level laser and PRP are important to learn about. Spironolactone must never be used during pregnancy. It causes irregular periods in 80 % of women. If periods are irregular, women in PCOS should consider an oral contraceptive to help regulate the periods. This may reduce the risk of some types of cancers. Speak to an endocrinologist, gynaecologist or dermatologist who specialists in PCOS should periods be irregular.

How can I fix my (female) androgenic alopecia due to PCOS? (Photo)

Answers (4)

Answer: Hair loss from PCOS - options

Answer: Hair loss from PCOS - options

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Everything you need to know about PRP for Hair Loss

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

How can I fix my (female) androgenic alopecia due to PCOS? (Photo)

Answers (4)

Answer: Hair loss from PCOS - options

Answer: Hair loss from PCOS - options

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about PRP for Hair Loss

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.