Understanding Female Pattern Hair Loss and What You Can Do About It
- Restore Hair and Scalp
- Jul 31
- 3 min read
Female pattern hair loss (FPHL), or hereditary thinning, affects up to 40% of women by age 50. As a trichologist, I work with women every day who are frustrated by slow progress, unclear options, and emotional impacts that hair loss can bring. The good news is, there are evidence-based tools that can help—especially when used together.
Topical Minoxidil
This is the only FDA-approved treatment for female hair loss in the U.S. It’s available in 2% or 5% formulas and works by helping more hairs stay in the growth phase longer. It takes time—typically 3 to 6 months—but it can improve hair density and thickness for many women.
Low-Level Light Therapy (LLLT)
Light therapy devices (like laser combs or caps) stimulate energy in your cells, especially in the hair follicles, to promote growth. They also reduce inflammation in the scalp and can work even better when combined with minoxidil.
Microneedling
This treatment creates tiny, controlled micro-injuries that “wake up” your follicles and encourage them to grow new hair. It also helps your scalp absorb topical treatments more effectively.
Scalp Health Products
Shampoos containing ketoconazole or zinc can help reduce inflammation and improve the health of the scalp—especially if you deal with dandruff or oily buildup. These can also help slow down the progression of FPHL.
Nutrition & Hair
Hair growth depends on a balanced diet. Deficiencies in iron, vitamin D, or other nutrients can contribute to thinning hair. We help evaluate what your body might be missing and offer suggestions to support your hair from the inside out.
Cosmetic Solutions
Not every treatment is about stimulating regrowth. Options like hair fibers, toppers, or wigs greatly boost confidence while you wait for other treatments to work—or as an ongoing part of your personal care plan.
FPHL may not be curable, but it is manageable. The best results often come from a combination of proven treatments like minoxidil, LLLT, scalp therapies, and lifestyle or nutritional support. As a trichologist, I’m here to guide you with evidence-based care and compassionate support every step of the way. I want to work as a team, with you and your doctor, to get optimal results.
Feel like you’ve tried everything and still feel stuck? You’re not alone—and you don’t have to navigate it alone either. Let’s talk about what your hair (and scalp) truly need.
References
Atanaskova Mesinkovska, N., & Bergfeld, W. F. (2013, January 31). Hair: what is new in diagnosis and management? Female pattern hair loss update: diagnosis and treatment. National Library of Medicine. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23159181/
Avci, P., Gupta, G. K., Clark, J., Wikonkal, N., & Hamblin, M. R. (2013, August 23). Low-level laser (light) therapy (LLLT) for treatment of hair loss. Lasers in Surgery and Medicine. https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/lsm.22170
Dhurat, R., Sukesh, M., Avhad, G., Dandale, A., Pal, A., & Pund, P. (2015, Jan-Mar). A Randomized Evaluator Blinded Study of Effect of Microneedling in Androgenetic Alopecia A Pilot Study. International Journal of Trichology, 5(1), 6-11. https://journals.lww.com/ijot/fulltext/2013/05010/A_Randomized_Evaluator_Blinded_Study_of_Effect_of.3.aspx).Â%C2%A0
Goh, C., Famenini, S., Slaught, C., & Duan, L. (2015, October). Demographics of women with female pattern hair loss and the effectiveness of spironolactone therapy. J Am Acad Dermatol, 4(73), 705-706. Retrieved July 14, 2025, from https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4573453/
Ramos, P. M., Fernandes Melo, D., Radwanski, H., Cortez de Almeida, R. F., & Amante Miot, H. (2023, March 30). Female-pattern hair loss: therapeutic update. National Library of Medicine. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10334345/
