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Androgenetic alopecia in women
Last reviewed: 07.06.2024
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Androgenetic alopecia (also known as female androgenetic alopecia, AA) in women is a form of hair loss that is associated with overactivity of male sex hormones, known as androgens, in women. It is the most common cause of hair loss in women and can begin at any age, but most commonly develops after menopause.
Here are some of the main characteristics of androgenetic alopecia in women:
- Hair thinning: In women with androgenetic alopecia, hair becomes thin and sparse, especially around the top of the head and forehead. Reduced hair may be more visible against a background of healthy hair.
- Increased hair loss: The process of hair loss is increased by androgens. The hair becomes less resistant and more prone to hair loss.
- Genetic predisposition: Androgenetic alopecia in women often has a genetic predisposition. If a woman has a family history of hair loss, she may have an increased risk of developing the condition.
- Hairlinepreservation: Unlike men with androgenetic alopecia, women usually have a preserved hairline, and hair does not usually thin on the forehead.
- Worsening symptoms with age: Androgenetic alopecia in women can worsen with age.
It is recommended to see a dermatologist or hair specialist to diagnose and treat androgenetic alopecia in women. Treatment may include the use of medications such as minoxidil or spironolactone, or other methods including surgery such as hair transplantation. A dermatologist may also recommend changes in hair care and styling tips to improve the appearance of hair with androgenetic alopecia.
Causes of the androgenic alopecia in women.
Androgenic alopecia in women is caused by the effects of androgens (male sex hormones) such as testosterone and its dihydrotestosterone (DHT) on the hair follicles. Under the influence of androgens, hair follicles become more sensitive to them and, as a result, begin to shrink and produce fine and short hair, eventually leading to sparse, rough skin.
Here are some of the main reasons why:
- Genetic predisposition: Genetic heredity plays an important role in the development of androgenetic alopecia. If a woman has family ancestors with the condition, she may have an increased risk of developing alopecia.
- Androgen levels: Elevated androgen levels in the body can be a major cause of androgenic alopecia. This can be due to various factors such as ovarian disorders, polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), hormonal changes during menopause and others.
- Aging: AA in women often increases with age. Age-related changes in hormones can increase the effects of androgens on hair follicles.
- Other risk factors: Certain medical conditions such as obesity, diabetes, and polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) can increase the risk of developing androgenic alopecia. Also, uncontrolled use of androgenic medications and androgenic steroids can worsen the symptoms of alopecia.
Pathogenesis
The pathogenesis of androgenic alopecia in women is related to the effects of androgens (male sex hormones) on hair follicles and changes in the hair growth cycle. Here's how it happens:
- Folliclesensitivity to androgens: Hair follicles (hair follicles) are located in different areas of the skin and have different sensitivities to androgens. Follicles on the top and forehead of the head in women are more sensitive to androgens than follicles in other areas.
- Increased follicle sensitivity: When exposed to androgens, the follicles on the top and forehead of the head begin to increase their sensitivity to androgens. This means that they become more susceptible to androgens and may respond by shrinking and decreasing in size.
- Shortening of the hair growth cycle: As a result of androgens acting on the follicles, the hair growth cycle is shortened. This means that hair becomes shorter and thinner, and its life cycle becomes shorter. Eventually, the hair may stop growing and fall out.
- Hairminiaturization: The hair on the top and forehead of the head becomes less expressive and less visible due to miniaturization, that is, a reduction in its diameter and length.
- Follicle Reduction: Under the influence of androgens, some follicles may shrink and degenerate, resulting in fewer functioning follicles in the scalp.
This process results in gradual hair loss in women and rare rough patches on the top and forehead of the head. It is important to note that AA in women is often genetic and can be inherited. It can also increase with age and in the presence of other risk factors, such as changes in hormones.
Symptoms of the androgenic alopecia in women.
Androgenetic alopecia in women can manifest with a variety of symptoms that can vary depending on the extent and nature of hair loss. Here are some of the main symptoms of this condition:
- Hair thinning: One of the most obvious symptoms of AA in women is a gradual thinning of the hair. The hair on the top and forehead of the head becomes thin and less dense.
- Hair loss: Gradual loss of hair on the top and forehead of the head can lead to hair loss. The hair becomes less stable and may fall out when styled or simply touched.
- Hairminiaturization: The hair that remains on the top and forehead of the head can become finer and shorter due to miniaturization. This means that they have a smaller diameter and length.
- Weak hair: Leftover hair may look weak and lifeless. They may be less vibrant and less elastic.
- Loss of Volume: Hair on the top of the head can lose its natural volume and become flat.
- Preserving the hairline: It is important to note that AA in women does not usually affect the forehead hairline. Forehead hair remains largely intact.
- Increased symptoms with age: Symptoms of androgenetic alopecia in women may increase with age.
Symptoms of androgenetic alopecia in women can be emotionally and psychologically distressing, as they can affect appearance and self-esteem. If you have signs of AA, it is important to see a dermatologist or hair specialist for diagnosis and recommendations for treatment and hair care.
Stages
Androgenetic alopecia in women is usually categorized into several stages depending on the severity of hair loss. One of the most widely used classification methods is the Ludwig Scale, which divides AA in women into three stages:
- Stage I: In this stage of AA, a woman usually experiences a gradual thinning of hair on the top of her head. The hair becomes finer and less dense, but the hair growth line on the forehead remains unchanged.
- Stage II: In this stage, a woman's hair loss intensifies and the hair on the top of her head becomes even more sparse. They may become shorter and less resistant, and there may be more obvious signs of thinning hair.
- Stage III: In this stage of AA, hair loss becomes most pronounced. The hair on the top of the head thinning to the point where the scalp may become visible. The hair growth line on the forehead usually remains unchanged.
This scale is used to assess the degree of AA and helps doctors determine the best treatment plan. It is important to note that AA in women can be individualized and the degree of hair loss can vary from woman to woman. It is also important to keep in mind that androgenic alopecia can worsen with age.
Forms
Androgenetic alopecia in women can manifest in different forms and have different patterns of hair loss. Some of the forms are summarized below:
- Diffuse alopecia: This form is characterized by uniform hair loss throughout the head. The hair becomes thin and sparse, and the process of hair thinning may be evenly distributed. Diffuse alopecia is often associated with elevated androgen levels and other factors such as changes in hormones.
- Frontal Alopecia: In this form in women, hair begins to fall out in the frontal part of the head, resulting in less hair volume in this area. The hair on the top and back of the head remains denser.
- Vertex(vertex) alopecia: In this form of hair loss, hair thinning and loss occurs at the top of the head. Vertex alopecia may result in an area of hairlessness on the top of the head.
- Masking alopecia: This type is characterized by women using different ways of styling and combing their hair to hide areas of thinning hair. This may include wearing longer hair in the front to camouflage areas of sparse hair.
- Other forms: Some women may have less typical forms such as alopecia on the temples, temporal alopecia, alopecia on the forehead or hair on the temples, etc. The form of AA can vary from woman to woman.
The form and nature of androgenetic alopecia in women can vary and depend on genetic factors, androgen levels, and other factors.
Diagnostics of the androgenic alopecia in women.
Diagnosing androgenetic alopecia in women may involve various methods and procedures to determine the extent of hair loss, identify its cause, and evaluate the overall condition of the hair and scalp. Here are some of the main diagnostic methods:
- Physicalexamination: The doctor performs a physical examination of the scalp and hair. He evaluates the degree of hair thinning, the presence of miniaturization (reduction in hair diameter), skin condition and other characteristics.
- Family history: The doctor may ask questions about family history of hair loss to determine if there is a genetic predisposition to androgenic alopecia.
- Blood tests: Blood tests may be required to detect possible hormonal abnormalities that may contribute to androgenic alopecia. These tests may include measuring levels of androgens such as testosterone and dihydrotestosterone (DHT), as well as other hormones such as sex hormones and thyroid hormones.
- Dermatoscopy: For a closer look at the condition of the scalp and hair, your doctor may use a dermoscope, which allows you to see details not visible to the naked eye.
- Scalp biopsy: In rare cases, a scalp biopsy may be needed for a more accurate diagnosis. This method involves taking a small sample of skin from the scalp and then examining it in a laboratory.
After diagnosis, the doctor can determine the extent of AA, its causes, and the presence of other factors that may be contributing to hair loss. Based on the diagnosis, an individualized treatment and hair care plan will be developed, which may include medications, treatments, and recommendations for hair and scalp care.
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Differential diagnosis
The differential diagnosis of androgenetic alopecia in women involves identifying this type of hair loss and ruling out other possible causes. There are several conditions and factors that can lead to hair loss in women and may have similar symptoms. Here are some of them:
- Thyroid disorders: Hypothyroidism (lack of thyroid function) and hyperthyroidism (increased thyroid function) can cause hair loss. Thyroid tests are performed for differential diagnosis.
- Anemia: Iron deficiency and anemia can lead to hair loss. Blood tests can help detect the presence of anemia.
- Stress-induced alopecia: Severe psychological stress or traumatic events can cause hair loss. The doctor may interview the patient to identify stress factors.
- Cancer Treatment: Chemotherapy and radiotherapy for cancer treatment can cause hair loss. History of cancer treatment can be important information for diagnosis.
- Medication-induced alopecia: Some medications such as anticoagulants, antidepressants, and antiepileptic drugs can cause hair loss. Patients may report taking such medications.
- Cyclic alopecia: This condition is characterized by periodic hair loss and hair regrowth. Diagnosis may require observation and examination of the pattern of hair loss.
- Involutional alopecia: This is a form of hair loss associated with the natural processes of aging. It is characterized by a gradual decrease in hair volume with age.
Differential diagnosis is made by taking into account the patient's medical history, physical examination, blood tests and other appropriate methods. After ruling out other possible causes of hair loss and establishing a diagnosis, the doctor can develop a treatment and hair care plan.
Treatment of the androgenic alopecia in women.
Treatment for androgenetic alopecia in women can involve a variety of methods, depending on the degree of hair loss, its causes, and the individual patient. Here are some of the most common treatments:
Minoxidil (Regaine)
Minoxidil is a medication that can be applied to the scalp as a spray, cream, or liquid. It can promote hair growth and improve hair texture. Minoxidil is available without a prescription.
Minoxidil is one of the most common and widely used medications to treat androgenic alopecia in women. Here is information about its use and effectiveness:
Mechanism of Action: Minoxidil works by stimulating blood supply to the scalp and increasing the size of hair follicles. This promotes the growth of healthier and stronger hair.
Application:
- Minoxidil is available as a topical solution or spray that is applied directly to the scalp in the area of hair loss.
- It is usually applied twice a day. It is important to follow the instructions on the package or your doctor's instructions.
- For best results, continue using minoxidil regularly. The first signs of improvement may appear after a few months, but full results may take several months to a year to appear.
Efficiency:
- Minoxidil may be effective in improving hair health and slowing hair loss in women with androgenic alopecia.
- Effectiveness can vary from patient to patient. In some women, minoxidil can completely restore hair density, while in others it can slow hair loss and improve hair quality.
- It is important to remember that stopping the use of minoxidil can have the opposite effect, and hair that has been restored thanks to the drug may start to fall out again.
Side effects:
- Minoxidil is well tolerated in most cases, but some patients may experience skin irritation, itching, redness or dryness.
- Rarely, more serious side effects such as allergic reactions may occur.
If you have androgenetic alopecia and are considering the use of minoxidil, it is important to discuss this with your doctor to get recommendations that are right for you. Your doctor may also perform additional tests to rule out other causes of hair loss and develop the best treatment plan.
Drugs that block dihydrotestosterone (DHT)
Dihydrotestosterone is the hormone that has been linked to hair loss in AA. Medications such as finasteride and dutasteride can help block the effects of DHT. They are usually used with a doctor's prescription.
Drugs that block dihydrotestosterone (DHT) are typically used in the treatment of androgenic alopecia in men. In women, DHT may also play a role in androgenic alopecia, but they are more sensitive to the hormonal changes associated with androgens. Therefore, treatment in women may involve more conservative methods. However, in some cases, the doctor may prescribe the following medications:
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Finasteride: This medicine can block the conversion of testosterone to DHT in the body. Finasteride is used less often in women than in men and usually in lower doses. It may require doctor supervision and monitoring because hormonal side effects may occur in women.
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Dutasteride: This drug also blocks the conversion of testosterone to DHT. It can be used as an alternative to finasteride and can also cause hormonal changes in women.
It is important to note that the use of these medications in women may be limited and requires close medical supervision, as they may affect the body's hormonal balance. The use of these drugs in women is usually considered in cases of androgenic alopecia that severely affect quality of life and do not respond to other treatments.
You should always discuss possible side effects and risks with your doctor before starting treatment with DHT-blocking drugs. Only your doctor can assess your specific situation and suggest the best treatment plan, taking into account all factors and circumstances.
Hormone therapy
In cases where androgenic alopecia is associated with hormonal disorders, a doctor may prescribe hormonal medications, such as contraceptives, which can correct androgen levels in the body.
Hormone therapy is one of the treatments for androgenic alopecia in women, especially if the alopecia is associated with an excess of androgens (male sex hormones) in the body. The use of hormonal medications can help balance androgen levels and improve hair health. Here are some of the common methods of hormone therapy:
- Use of oral contraceptives (contraceptives): Oral contraceptives may be prescribed for women with androgenic alopecia as they can reduce androgen levels in the body. Contraceptives containing anti-androgenic components such as cyproterone.
There are several oral contraceptives that can be used to treat androgenic alopecia in women, especially if they contain anti-androgenic components. Below are some of them, but it is important to remember that the choice of a particular drug and its dosage should be coordinated with a doctor, as it depends on the individual characteristics and medical history of the patient:
- Dro-Spirenone: This drug is an antiandrogenic and is often used to treat androgenic alopecia in women. It can be part of various birth control medications such as Yasmin, Yaz and others.
How to use: Preparations with dro-spirenone are usually taken in tablets daily according to the doctor's instructions. Duration of treatment and dosage depend on the specific drug.
- Cyproterone: This antiandrogenic drug may also be included in some contraceptive medications. Examples include Diane-35 and others.
How to use: Cyproterone tablets are usually taken daily as instructed by your doctor.
- Dro-spirenone/ethinylestradiol (Yaz, Yasmin, Ocella): These contraceptives combine dro-spirenone and ethinylestradiol and may be effective in the treatment of androgenic alopecia.
How to use: Preparations of this group are usually taken daily, following the instructions of the doctor.
- Generics: In some cases, your doctor may recommend using generic (off-brand) versions of oral contraceptives that contain drospirenone or other antiandrogenic ingredients.
It is important to remember that the use of oral contraceptives should be supervised by a doctor, who will determine the best approach to treatment and select the appropriate drug. The doctor's instructions regarding dosage and regularity of use should also be followed. Treatment of androgenic alopecia may take a long time and results may not be seen immediately.
- Hormonal injections: In some cases, if the androgenic alopecia is severe, the doctor may decide to prescribe hormonal injections to be given periodically to reduce androgen levels.
- Minoxidil (Rogaine): Minoxidil is a medication that is applied directly to the scalp and promotes hair growth. Although it is not a hormonal drug, it can be used in conjunction with hormone therapy to improve results.
It is important to emphasize that hormone therapy requires supervision and monitoring by a doctor, as it may have side effects and require regular check-ups. Also, the effects of hormone therapy may only become apparent after several months of treatment, so you need to be patient.
Before starting any hormone therapy, it is recommended to consult a qualified physician or dermatologist to determine the appropriate method and dosage based on the individual patient.
Hair care procedures
Regular hair and scalp care can improve the condition of your hair and scalp. This includes using mild shampoos and conditioners, avoiding excessive rubbing and styling of the hair, and taking care of the scalp.
Shampoos and conditioners can be part of comprehensive hair care in the treatment of androgenetic alopecia in women. They can help improve the condition of the hair and scalp, but are not the primary treatment. Here are some guidelines for choosing and using shampoos and conditioners:
- Hair strengthening shampoos: You can choose a shampoo that is specifically designed to strengthen hair and reduce hair loss. Shampoos with active ingredients such as biotin, caffeine, niacinamide and vitamins can help improve hair texture and growth.
- Mildformula shampoos: Avoid aggressive shampoos that can dry out the scalp. Shampoos with a mild formula and no sulfates may be more suitable for sensitive scalps.
- Conditionerswith moisturizing ingredients: Mo isturizing your hair and scalp can help reduce breakage and improve hair texture. Conditioners with glycerin, aloe vera, hyaluronic acid and other moisturizing ingredients can be helpful.
- Consult your doctor: Consult your doctor or dermatologist before selecting specific hair care products. Your doctor can recommend products that are appropriate for your hair type and scalp condition.
- Regular use: It is important to wash and care for your hair regularly, following the instructions on the packaging. Washing frequency may vary depending on hair type and needs.
While shampoos and conditioners can improve overall hair health, they are not medications that can prevent or reverse androgenetic alopecia.
Hair restoration treatments
Procedures such as mesotherapy, plasmolifting, laser therapy and hair transplants can be considered as complementary treatments to stimulate hair growth and improve hair quality.
Mesotherapy
Can be one of the methods of treatment of androgenic alopecia in women. This procedure involves intradermal injections of special mixtures that contain biologically active substances, vitamins, amino acids, and other components that promote hair strengthening and growth. Here is more information about mesotherapy for the treatment of androgenic alopecia in women:
Mechanism of Action: Mesotherapy can improve blood supply to the scalp, stimulate hair follicles and strengthen hair roots. This can promote the growth of new hair as well as improve the quality of existing hair.
Process:
- The procedure is performed using small injections that are made into the scalp at the area of hair loss.
- The doctor may use injections with a unique blend of ingredients customized to the patient's specific needs.
- Mesotherapy is usually performed in multiple sessions at intervals ranging from a few weeks to a few months.
Results:
- Results may be visible after a few sessions, but it may take several months of treatment to achieve maximum effect.
- Mesotherapy can improve hair quality and texture, reduce hair loss and promote new hair growth.
- It is important to note that effects may be temporary and periodic maintenance may be required to maintain results.
Side effects:
- Possible side effects may include mild redness, swelling or discomfort at the injection site. However, these are usually short-term and go away on their own.
Under medical supervision: Mesotherapy should be performed under the supervision of a qualified physician or dermatologist who will determine the appropriate ingredients and technique for your specific case.
Cautions:
- Mesotherapy is not recommended for pregnant women or those with serious medical contraindications.
- Before undergoing mesotherapy, it is important to consult with your doctor and discuss your expectations and possible risks.
As with other androgenic alopecia treatments, mesotherapy results can vary from patient to patient. Before beginning mesotherapy, it is recommended that you consult with your physician to see if the procedure is right for you and what results you can expect.
Plasmolifting, also known as PRP therapy
Platelet-Rich Plasma Therapy (Platelet-Rich Plasma Therapy), is a treatment for androgenic alopecia in women. This method uses the patient's own blood plasma to stimulate hair growth and improve hair quality. Here's how the plasmolifting procedure works:
Mechanism of Action:
- The procedure begins by drawing a small volume of blood from the patient.
- The blood is then processed in a centrifuge to isolate the platelet-rich plasma (blood platelets).
- The resulting PRP plasma contains growth factors that promote tissue healing and stimulate hair growth.
Process:
- Plasmolifting is performed by injecting PRP plasma into the scalp in the area of hair loss. The injections are done intrathecally in the area of hair follicles.
- The procedure may require several sessions spaced a few weeks to a few months apart.
Results:
- Results from plasmolifting can be seen several months after treatment begins.
- Plasmolifting can improve hair texture and quality, as well as promote new hair growth.
- Periodic maintenance may be required to maintain results as effects may be temporary.
Side effects:
- Plasmaplasty is generally considered a safe procedure with minimal side effects. However, short-term redness, swelling or discomfort at the injection site may occur.
Consultation with a doctor: Plasmolifting should be performed under the supervision of a qualified doctor or dermatologist, who will determine the appropriate technique and explain what effect can be expected in your case.
Cautions:
- Before undergoing plasmolifting, it is recommended that you consult with your doctor and discuss possible risks and expectations.
Plasmaplasty can be an effective treatment for androgenic alopecia in women, especially in the early stages of hair loss. However, results may vary depending on the individual characteristics of each patient.
Laser therapy, or low-level laser therapy (LLLT)
May be one of the treatments for androgenic alopecia in women. This method uses low-level laser light waves to stimulate hair growth and strengthen existing hair. Here's how the laser therapy procedure works:
Mechanism of Action:
- Laser therapy works at the hair follicle level by stimulating mitochondria and increasing adenosine triphosphate (ATP) production, which can promote hair growth.
- It is also believed that laser therapy can reduce inflammation and improve scalp microcirculation.
Process:
- A laser therapy procedure is usually performed using special devices such as laser helmets, combs or capsules that emit low-level laser light waves.
- Patients wear the device on their scalp for a specific amount of time as indicated in the instructions or recommended by their doctor.
- The duration of sessions and frequency of treatment may vary depending on the device and the doctor's recommendations.
Results:
- Results from laser therapy can be seen after several months of regular use.
- Laser therapy can strengthen existing hair, improve hair texture, and promote new hair growth.
- Supportive sessions may be required to maintain results.
Side effects:
- Laser therapy is considered a safe procedure with minimal side effects. However, some patients may experience temporary redness or a feeling of warmth on the scalp after the procedure.
Consult a doctor: Laser therapy should be performed under the supervision of a qualified physician or dermatologist. Your doctor can recommend the best device and technique for your case.
Cautions:
- Before starting laser therapy, it is recommended that you consult with your doctor and discuss possible risks and expectations.
Laser therapy can be an effective treatment for androgenetic alopecia in women, especially in the early stages of hair loss. However, results may vary depending on the individual characteristics of each patient.
Hair transplantation (hair transplantation)
Is one of the most effective treatments for androgenetic alopecia in women, especially for moderate to severe hair loss. Here is how the hair transplant procedure works:
Process:
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Preparation: Prior to the procedure, the surgeon assesses the condition of the scalp and decides where and which hair will be taken for transplantation (most often the area at the back of the head, as hair in this area is often resistant to androgenic alopecia).
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Hair extraction: Hair is extracted using one of two main methods: the strip method (FUT) or the follicle extraction method (FUE).
- FUT (Follicular Unit Transplantation): In this method, the surgeon removes a strip of skin with hair from the donor area and then divides it into microscopic hair follicles.
- FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction): In this method, individual hair follicles are extracted one by one using micro tools.
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Preparation of the receiving area: Before the follicles are transplanted, the receiving area on the scalp is prepared to receive the follicles.
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Hair transplantation: Hair follicles are precisely transplanted to a receiving area on the scalp, usually using microscopic instruments and specialized techniques.
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Healing and recovery: After the procedure, time is needed for healing. Scalp and hair care instructions may be prescribed to the patient.
Results:
- The transplanted hair will begin to grow a few months after the procedure.
- Results can vary depending on the individual, but transplanted hair usually looks natural and can continue to grow for a long time.
Side effects:
- After the procedure, there may be brief redness, swelling or discomfort on the scalp. Small crusts may also be visible at the transplant sites, which usually disappear after a few days.
Consultation with a physician:
- Before deciding on a hair transplant, it is important to consult with an experienced trichologic surgeon or dermatologist. The doctor will assess the condition of the hair, determine the appropriate method and explain the expectations and possible risks.
Hair transplantation can be an effective treatment for androgenic alopecia in women, but it is a serious medical procedure and the decision to undergo it should be made in collaboration with a qualified physician.
Lifestyle changes
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a healthy diet, exercise and stress management, can help improve hair health and prevent further loss.
It is important to note that treatment results for androgenic alopecia may vary depending on the individual characteristics of each patient. Treatment should be supervised by a physician who will determine the best treatment plan for the patient's specific needs. For best results, it is important to begin treatment as early as possible, as androgenic alopecia can be more effectively managed in its early stages.
Prevention
Prevention of androgenetic alopecia in women can include a number of measures aimed at reducing the risk of developing this condition. It is important to note that androgenic alopecia often has a genetic predisposition, and it is not always completely preventable. However, the following measures can help reduce the risk of developing androgenic alopecia:
- Healthy lifestyle: Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help keep your hair and scalp healthy. This includes eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly and avoiding bad habits such as smoking.
- Hair care: Gentle and proper hair care can help keep hair healthy and reduce the risk of hair loss. This includes using mild shampoos and conditioners, avoiding excessive rubbing and pulling of the hair, and using gentle styles and accessories.
- Balanced diet: Eating foods rich in vitamins, minerals and proteins helps to maintain healthy hair and skin. Nutrients such as iron, zinc, biotin and B vitamins are particularly important.
- Minimize Stress: Stress can have a negative impact on hair health and contribute to hair loss. Therefore, it is important to learn how to manage stress through relaxation, meditation and other techniques.
- Consult a doctor: If you have a family history of androgenic alopecia or are showing signs of its early stages, see a dermatologist or trichologist for a consultation. Seeing a specialist early can help in establishing a diagnosis and developing an appropriate treatment.
- Medication prophylaxis: In some cases, a doctor may prescribe preventive medications, such as finasteride, to reduce the risk of developing androgenic alopecia. These medications, however, should only be taken when recommended by a doctor.
It is important to remember that androgenic alopecia can have different causes, and prevention can only be effective in certain cases. It is best to consult with your doctor to assess your risk and develop an individualized prevention or treatment plan, if necessary.