Female pattern hair loss (FPHL), also known as androgenetic alopecia, is a common form of hair loss in women characterized by a gradual thinning of hair on the scalp preserving the forehead hairline. It is a progressive condition that often starts with increased hair shedding, followed by a reduction in hair density, primarily affecting the crown and top of the head. Unlike male pattern baldness, it rarely leads to complete baldness.
1. Topical Minoxidil : The only FDA-approved treatment for FPHL; it stimulates hair growth and slows hair loss. It is available in 2% and 5% formulations. We generally do not start minoxidil in the beginning of treatment if there is a considerable hair shedding going on. Procapil, redensil, anagain, capixyl are good alternatives to stabilize the hair fall initially.
2. Oral Medications:
3. Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT): Devices such as laser caps or combs that use light therapy to stimulate hair follicles and promote hair growth.
4. Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy: Involves injecting concentrated platelets from the patient's blood into the scalp to stimulate hair regrowth.It is a non-surgical treatment designed to stimulate hair growth and improve hair density. The process includes the following steps:
Platelets are rich in growth factors, which can stimulate dormant hair follicles, increase blood supply to the hair follicles and thereby enhance the thickness of the hair shaft.
PRP therapy is typically recommended for early stages of hair thinning specifically, Androgenic alopecia (male or female pattern baldness). Also for individuals looking to improve hair density and scalp health. Your platelet count needs to be good to get expected results.
Treatment Schedule: Initial sessions are usually done once a month for 3–4 months, followed by maintenance treatments every 3–6 months.
Benefits: It is non-surgical and minimally invasive. As it uses your own blood, there is no risk of allergic reactions.It can be combined with other hair treatments like medications (e.g., minoxidil, finasteride).
Side Effects: PRP therapy is generally safe but may cause mild scalp tenderness or swelling at the injection site, temporary redness or bruising.
Results are visible typically after 3–6 months, with progressive improvement over time.If you’re considering PRP therapy for hair, consult a dermatologist or trichologist to determine if it’s the right solution for your hair concerns.
It is a new, cutting-edge treatment that uses cell-derived vesicles to stimulate hair regrowth. Exosomes are tiny particles secreted by stem cells that contain growth factors, proteins, and genetic material capable of enhancing tissue repair and regeneration.
Exosomes are harvested from stem cells (usually derived from bone marrow or amniotic sources).The exosomes are concentrated into a serum for treatment. The exosome serum is injected into the scalp, targeting areas with hair thinning or hair loss.
The messengers activate dormant hair follicles and encourage their growth cycle.It also improves scalp health and elasticity, creating an environment conducive to hair growth.New blood vessels increase the oxygen and nutrient delivery to hair follicles. It reduces inflammation in the scalp, which may contribute to hair loss.
People with androgenetic alopecia (male or female pattern baldness), Individuals with hair thinning due to aging, stress, or non-scarring alopecia, people seeking advanced treatments beyond PRP or traditional options.
Advantages of Exosome Therapy: Exosomes contain concentrated growth factors, often making them more effective than PRP.It is non-Surgical and minimally invasive. No downtime required. Results may last longer compared to PRP. Typically requires fewer sessions than PRP.
Expected Results : Early results are often seen within 3–6 months.Continued improvement occurs over the next 6–12 months as hair follicles grow stronger.
Mild redness, swelling, or tenderness at the injection site, temporary itching or discomfort in the treated area. Rarely, minor allergic reactions to the exosome product.
Exosome therapy tends to be more expensive than PRP due to its advanced formulation and sourcing methods, with prices starting from INR 10000 onwards. Exosome therapy offers a promising solution for hair loss, particularly for individuals who have not seen results with other treatments. Consult our dermatologist or hair specialist to evaluate your candidacy for this advanced therapy.
5. Hair Transplant Surgery: For advanced cases, hair transplantation can be an option, moving hair follicles from denser areas to thinning regions.
6. Nutritional Supplements: Biotin, iron, zinc, and vitamin D supplements can support hair health, especially if deficiencies are present.
7. Scalp Micropigmentation: A non-surgical option to create the illusion of thicker hair by tattooing tiny dots on the scalp.
Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial for managing FPHL effectively. Consulting with our expert dermatologist and trichologists can help determine the most appropriate treatment plan based on the severity of hair loss and individual needs. We at Subodha skin and cosmetic clinic, believe in a holistic approach towards each case of hair loss, addressing the underlying cause and treatment with medications and procedures as needed.
