Are PCOS and Hair Loss Related?

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Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal imbalance of the reproductive system which creates an issue with the ovaries and how the egg is developed or released each month. For women, one of the common symptoms is an increase of hair on the face or other parts of the body that men usually grow hair. Oddly enough, another symptom is thinning hair on the scalp like male pattern baldness.

What Is The Cause For PCOS and Hair Thinning?

Although there isn’t an exact science on why the hair growth or thinning occurs with PCOS, some think it has to do with high levels of androgens. Many people assume that androgens are “male hormones” because of the steroid hormone or testosterone. However, androgen levels are in women and men. The difference is the level of androgens a male or female produces. When a female produces more than normal levels of androgen, some of the signs of PCOS come into play.  The main job of androgens in a female is to convert into estrogen whereas the androgen in males play an important role for reproduction and male traits. Androgenetic Alopecia is a common term for hair loss in men and women. The way a male or female loses their hair is a little different. The male might have receding hair line or thinning at the crown of the hear. Women will have overall thinning of the hair across the entire scalp. About 10% of people with alopecia areata may never regrow hair.

What Are Some Of The PCOS Hair Loss Affects?

Hair loss and thinning can be extremely devastating and affects about 80 million men and women in the United States. It can affect self-esteem, social activity and overall mental health. Many times, the medical side pays little to no attention to the side effect of hair loss in women. However, it can be a big emotional distress that is legitimate and should be addressed immediately.  Some people are able to overcome hair loss or thinning; however others may develop serious conditions such as depression and anxiety.

If you are feeling this way or just want to improve your overall hair image, there are options available! Options such as Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT), Topical products and/or Synthetic or Human Hair Wigs.  

Options For Individuals With PCOS Hair Loss or Thinning

Laser Hair Therapy is a non-surgical, scientific approach in the cosmetic treatment of hair loss, thinning hair, and scalp problems.  Low level laser therapy (LLLT) has been tested for effectiveness and safety for over 30 years all around the world, and several medical devices have now been cleared by the FDA. Unlike many other treatments, LLLT works on all areas of the scalp and has been clinically proven to work.

  • Functions on the same scientific principle as that of photo-bio-stimulation. Laser light stimulates cell metabolism and helps damaged cells to repair themselves.
  • Increases the size of the capillaries under hair follicles and stimulates nutrients and energy to the hair follicles.
  • Increases protein growth and 54% increase in blood flow

Topical products such as shampoos, topical treatments, vitamins mixed with cold laser therapy are typically combined for a multi-therapeutic approach to support a healthy scalp for thicker, fuller hair. 

For those that want a quick and easy solution, beautifully made synthetic or human hair wigs are a great option. There are two options available: synthetic hair wigs and human hair wigs. Although human hair is costlier, it looks natural, is durable, can be styled with various tools and dyed or highlighted professionally as you would your normal hair. Synthetic hair costs less and also has many advantages, such as holding style regardless of weather or wash, low maintenance and various style options. Another option could potentially be hair pieces. Hair pieces are customized to your hair, filling in thinning and/or balding areas providing a fuller look. The various types depend on the area that need focus: hair toppers, hair extensions, hair pieces and volumizers.

Get Help With Options for PCOS and Hair Loss!

Hair thinning and loss is never a fun topic, but the great news is we have options. Not sure which option is best? We are more than happy to offer a private one-on-one free consultation. We will evaluate and provide the costs, length of time involved if LLLT is chosen and or various styling options with our wigs. When hair loss starts affecting a healthy lifestyle daily, it is time to make a change. Small changes can make a positive impact in ways never imagined.