Hair Loss in PCOS

Dr. Sandra Jayesh
October 11, 2023
5 Minutes
removing hair from brush

Hair Loss in PCOS - Questions Answered

Generally, Poly Cystic Ovary Syndrome, hair loss is not a concern that is frequently brought up. Hirsutism (excess facial and body hair) is discussed more in association with PCOS. According to the data available, more than 50% of women suffer from hair loss in this world and PCOS is a common but often undiagnosed/misdiagnosed condition, in which certain hormones are out of balance. So, what if your hair loss is related with PCOS?

What type of hair loss do PCOS cause?

Androgenic alopecia is a patterned loss of hair that's common in females with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). It is caused by the excess production of Dihydrotestosterone (male hormone). It’s observed that women experience hair loss around their temples and frontal regions of their scalp. This may severely affect a woman's emotional well-being and quality of life.  

What causes hair loss in PCOS?

Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) gets attached to hair follicles on the scalp and causes the hair follicles to shrink, hair to thin, grow shorter, and weaker. In Telogen stage (the hair growth cycle - when hair follicle is resting), hair follicles start growing new hair after hair fall, they rest for about 100 days. In people who suffer from androgenic alopecia, dihydrotestosterone lengthens the resting stage of hair follicles. Eventually the follicle stops producing hair.

What are the symptoms of hair problems in PCOS?

The common symptoms of hair problems in PCOS are hair loss, thinning of hair, limp, lustre less hair that is easily breakable, dry and damaged, hair is frequently left on the pillow after sleep, too much hair on their hairbrushes or increased shedding after washing their hair. PCOS hair loss typically starts at the crown of the head and progresses to the top of the head, exposing more of the scalp. But it's uncommon to go completely bald.  

Can PCOS hair loss be reversed?

Any hair you lose as a result of PCOS won't re-grow on its own. However, you might be able to promote the growth of new hair with treatment. Breathe easy, because there are natural and holistic ways of reversing PCOS hair loss with the help of Ayurveda.

How can I reduce androgen level in PCOS?

You can reduce excess androgen in your body through Ayurveda and by implementing lifestyle modifications which includes proper hair care, nutritious diet etc. Kindly refer to (link of lifestyle modifications) for more details.

How Ayurveda can help reversal of Hair loss in PCOS?

Ayurveda is the holistic treatment method that focuses on your entire body, not just the specific part that has a disease. Implementing Ayurveda Dinacharya (daily regimen to be followed by an individual according to Ayurveda) and Ritucharya (seasonal regimen) will drastically help in rejuvenating the whole body, so as the hair fall. Synthetic medicines may not reflect hair loss immediately, but gradually damage your hair follicles.

 

It's important to recognise you're not the only person experiencing hair loss due to PCOS and to note that working with your health care provider to address the hormonal imbalance at the root cause of the problem is the key to promote hair growth in PCOS. It is also recommended to consult a trusted healthcare team before taking any supplements, especially if you are already taking medication for another condition.

We team Curate are here to support through each step of your PCOS journey. Together we can do so much! Stay positive. Keep smiling.