Approximately 40% of women experience noticeable hair loss by age 50. Despite its prevalence, female hair loss is a topic that isn’t talked about enough. But we’re here to help women combat hair loss and give them options, including those that don’t require surgery. One option Dr. Keene recommends for her female patients is Rogaine – the only FDA-approved hair loss medication for women.
Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) and Female Hair Loss
Pattern baldness is the most common type of hair loss in men and women. While multiple factors contribute to hair loss in women, one key player is dihydrotestosterone (DHT).
Women produce small amounts of testosterone, which can be converted into DHT. DHT binds to hair follicles, causing them to shrink over time. This shrinking process, known as miniaturization, gradually weakens the hair, resulting in thinning and eventual hair loss. Excessive levels of DHT in women can lead to a condition known as female pattern hair loss or androgenetic alopecia.
How Rogaine (Minoxidil) Helps Women Fight Hair Loss
Rogaine (generic name: minoxidil) is the only FDA-approved hair loss medication for women. Originally developed as a treatment for high blood pressure, minoxidil was found to have an unexpected side effect – promoting hair growth. This discovery led to the development of Rogaine, an over-the-counter topical solution approved by the FDA for the treatment of hair loss.
Rogaine works by directly counteracting the follicle-shrinking effects of DHT by dilating the blood vessels that nourish the hair follicles. This revitalizes the miniaturized hair follicles and extends their growth phase, leading to thicker, fuller hair.
Rogaine’s effectiveness has also been demonstrated through clinical trials. A study done by the American Academy of Dermatology showed that 5% minoxidil solution (the concentration found in Rogaine) significantly increased hair regrowth and improve hair density in women with androgenetic alopecia (female pattern hair loss).
Hair Restoration Scottsdale and Tucson, Arizona
As a woman herself with over 20 years of experience in hair restoration surgery, Dr. Keene deeply understands female hair loss more than anyone else. If you are exploring your hair restoration options, it’s important to choose a highly skilled and experienced provider like Dr. Keene.
Call us to schedule your consultation at the Physician’s Hair Institute today. We have clinics located in Scottsdale and Tucson, Arizona, serving patients all over Arizona and surrounding areas including Flowing Wells, Oro Valley, Florence, Coolidge, Safford, and Drexel Heights.
