Dr Ankita S
MBBS, MS, DNB OBGY
Is PCOS and hair loss related?
Yes ! PCOS can cause hair loss.
The higher androgen levels which are common in PCOS Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome can affect hair growth, hair thinning or hair loss.
Hair loss because of hyperandrogenism i.e due to excess male hormone is termed as Androgenic alopecia (AGA)
Hirsutism (growth of access hair) and acanthosis nigricans (skin pigmentation disorder) are the most common symptoms that are observed in the case of PCOS along with a prevalence of androgenic alopecia among few PCOS patients as well.
Talking about hairlfall, usually the average normal amount of hair fall ranges from 50 and 100 a day. Androgenic Alopecia suggests an amount of hair loss greater than what is normally expected. It is a genetically predetermined disorder due to an excessive response to androgens. This condition affects up to 50 percent of males and females and is characterized by progressive loss of terminal hair of the scalp any time after puberty. In women it is characterized by the frontal hairline which is typically spared with diffuse hair loss at the crown and top of head, with loss often marked by a wider center part
More hairfall than usual is excessive hair loss than usual, especially while combing or after showering, are the first signs of the onset of alopecia.
-What actually causes hair loss in PCOS
The pressure on the hair follicles is buffered by the surrounding subcutaneous fat tissue, but as we age, the thickness and dermal volume decrease, thus causing pressure on the hair follicle and leading to hair loss and balding of the scalp.
Other than ageing, increased testosterone has a huge effect on decreasing the subcutaneous fat tissue around hair follicles, thereby leading to hair loss. In women, Oestrogen helps cushion the subcutaneous tissues until menopause.
In the presence of PCOS, hyperandrogenism, or excess male hormones (testosterone), might be the major cause of the hair loss.
Among the androgens, the potent form of testosterone, dihydrotestosterone (DHT), is blamed for AGA.
The increased DHT causes erosion in the subcutaneous fat tissue in the scalp, thereby creating the vicious cycle.
How to stop pcos hair loss
We all must have asked how to stop PCOS hair loss naturally. Or are there any home remedies for PCOS hair loss?
Well certain hair care practices will help improve your overall scalp health and hair health
DO’S & DON’TS
- If you work out, sweat too much, or have an oily scalp, you can shower daily.
- Avoid insufficient rinsing.
- Use lukewarm water to wash your hair.
- Allow the hair to air dry or use the cool mode on the hair dryer.
- If elastic bands and scrunchies are used, they must not be tight.
- Smooth combs are preferable.
- Regular oil massage of the scalp helps in blood circulation.
- Avoid using too much chemical products to your hair
- Opt for oils that suits your scalp and hair type
Foods that help with pcos hair loss
- Focus on consuming diet rich protein, B vitamins, iron, zinc.
- Add high-fibre foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
- Add seeds as your toppings
- Lean proteins like fish, beans, peas, and lentils
- Opt for Low-glycemic foods
- Avoid processed, added preservative food products
Treatments
PCOS hair loss treatment includes more than one treatment :
– Address your hormonal imbalance
To stop or manage AGA, your first significant step is to encounter the increased androgen levels, which are the primary cause of the hair loss. Addressing the root cause and practising complementary hair care practices and lifestyle changes will definitely bring about better changes.
-Supplements
Supplement won’t cure your hair loss but provide sufficient to strengthen, protect and lower the hair loss, you should be focus on consuming following supplements
- Iron,
- zinc,
- Selenium,
- vitamin A, D, C and B especially Biotin,
- Folic acid,
- amino acids,
- omega fatty acids
-Medications
To take medication you should consult a doctor. There are plenty of effective medications prescribed for AGA like spironolactone, minoxidil which helps promote hair growth and to reduce hair loss. Some of these medications may have side effects therefore it is strongly recommended to take doctor’s opinion before usage.
Lifestyle changes that helps with your PCOS induced hair loss (AGA)
- Start your exercise routine
- Feed your body the nutrients it needs
- Manage your stress
- Stay hydrated
- Get yourself enough sleep
- Listen to your body signs
Conclusion
PCOS is a condition that may cause hair loss. There are various treatment options available to help you grow back the hair you’ve lost, including medications, scalp massages, and other natural remedies. What you should be more concentrated on is your hormonal imbalance, addressing the root cause and proceeding in holistic care.
When dealing with PCOS-related hair loss, it’s important to know that you’re not alone. Talking it through with a community of people dealing with the same thing and with professionals can be helpful.
References
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, PCOS (Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome) can cause hair loss due to higher androgen levels, which affect hair growth and lead to hair thinning or hair loss.
Androgenic Alopecia (AGA) is a type of hair loss caused by increased androgen levels, particularly dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which erodes the subcutaneous fat tissue in the scalp, leading to hair loss and balding.
Stopping PCOS-related hair loss involves addressing hormonal imbalances through medication, supplements, and lifestyle changes. Proper hair care practices, a nutrient-rich diet, and managing stress can also contribute to improved hair health.
A nutrient-rich diet that includes foods rich in protein, B vitamins, iron, zinc, and omega fatty acids can support hair health. High-fiber foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains are also beneficial.
PCOS-induced hair loss can be treated with medications like spironolactone and minoxidil, which promote hair growth and reduce hair loss. Additionally, addressing hormonal imbalances and adopting a healthy lifestyle can have a positive impact on hair health. Before starting any treatment, it's essential to consult a doctor.
Dr Ankita S
MBBS, MS, DNB OBGY
M.Sc Nutrition and Dietetics
M.Sc Nutrition and Dietetics
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