What Is Female Pattern Hair Loss?
Otherwise known as androgenetic alopecia, female pattern hair loss is one of the three most common forms of hair loss affecting women. One out of five women in their mid-30s suffer from this condition and it worsens with age.
Although men also suffer from androgenetic alopecia, it manifests itself differently in both sexes. Nonetheless, both male and female pattern baldness are predictable in reference to the Norwood-Hamilton Scale and Ludwig Scale, respectively.
In women, pattern hair loss is characterized by a diffuse hair thinning. In other words, hair loss is spread throughout the scalp. The central parting of the scalp would then widen, creating the appearance of a less dense and sparse mane.
What causes it?
Many women would blame the unlucky draw of genes and hyperandrogenism for their hair loss. Experts believe that genetic predisposition causes the hair follicles to become sensitive to the hormone metabolite of testosterone, which is dihydrotestosterone (DHT).
Women also produce testosterone in the ovaries and adrenal glands. In some cases, the rise of DHT levels results from the decreasing production of estrogen, which is said to stunt the excessive production of androgens in the female body. This is a common phenomenon during menopause.
Follicular sensitivity to DHT leads to gaps in between phases of the hair growth cycle, consequently leading to hair loss and hair thinning.
What is a proven hair loss treatment for FPHL?
Widely used in the management of several health conditions including carpal tunnel syndrome, musculoskeletal disorders, and wound healing, low-level laser therapy is proven safe and effective in the management of FPHL as well.
Low-level laser is a cold or soft coherent light that renders photobiostimulation, a natural process comparable to photosynthesis, and vasodilation, the expansion of the blood vessels. Both of these processes stimulate hair growth.
Studies show that LLLT is very effective against diffuse hair loss, which is characteristic of FPHL. However, it only shows effectiveness in treating mild to moderate cases of FPHL. Nevertheless, it does not put anyone at any significant risk.
A proven hair loss treatment, LLLT is now widely practiced around Europe and America for this purpose. Its popularity paved the way for the development of handheld devices that integrate the technology. With these devices, LLLT has become even more accessible and efficient.