Female hair loss is a genetic condition inherited from either parent. The genetically affected hair follicles in women experiencing female hair loss are susceptible to a byproduct of testosterone called dihydrotestosterone, or DHT, which causes the hair follicle to shed the normal hair and produce thinner, shorter, colorless hair. This peach-fuzz hair makes the scalp look thinner, and over time, the miniaturized hair follicles atrophy and die, causing permanent hair loss known as balding. There is no peach-fuzz hair in balding areas, and the scalp looks tight and shiny.
Female hair loss is an interruption of the hair's normal growth cycle.6 A strand of hair grows at a rate of approximately 1/2 inch per month. It grows for two to six years, rests and then falls out. A new strand grows to replace it. This cycle continues in a random pattern of growth and shedding. If the cycle is interrupted and shedding starts to occur synchronously, you encounter hair loss.
Corticoid steroids: These are cortisone types of anti-inflammatory drugs that help to suppress the immune system; they can be given as a pill, topical ointment or as a local injection, directly into the hairless patches on the scalp.
Minoxidil 5%: (known under the brand name of Rogaine) This promotes hair growth in several conditions in which the hair follicles are small and not growing to their full potential. It needs to be used on a daily basis. New hair growth can appear in about 12 weeks, however if use of the drug stops, the new hair may fall out.
Anthralin (Psoriatic): This is a tar like substance that is used to treat psoriasis; it changes the immune function in the affected skin. If it does work, new hair growth is seen in eight to twelve weeks. It is often used in combination with other medications.
Sulfasalazin: This sulfa drug is used to treat autoimmune disorders.
Topical sensitizers: These, when applied to the scalp, cause an allergic reaction that leads to itching and scaling, but also stimulate the hair follicles and can cause hair growth. Again, results are only seen after long-term use, usually three to twelve months.
Photo chemotherapy: This too is used for psoriasis. It has helped about half those treated, but requires special equipment and treatment two to three times a week. There are concerns that it could increase risk of skin cancer.
