Thinning Hair · Hormonal

If you have PCOS and your hair is thinning, the two are almost certainly connected.

Polycystic ovary syndrome is most often discussed in terms of its effects on periods, fertility and weight. But hair loss is one of its most distressing symptoms, and one that is frequently under-treated. Women with PCOS often spend years trying products that do not address the hormonal root cause of their hair loss, not because they are doing anything wrong, but because they have never been given a proper explanation of what is happening.

PCOS is associated with elevated levels of androgens. In women with a genetic sensitivity to androgens, elevated levels cause hair follicles at the scalp to miniaturise and produce progressively finer hair. The thinning typically follows a pattern similar to female pattern hair loss: gradual thinning at the temples and crown, sometimes with a widening parting.

The same androgen excess that affects the scalp can also drive excess facial hair and acne, which is why many women with PCOS experience all three together. It is the same hormonal cause expressing itself in different ways.

Products like over-the-counter topical minoxidil can stimulate growth and reduce shedding. But they do not address the hormonal reason the follicles are under attack in the first place. This is why women with PCOS-related hair loss often see limited results from topical treatments used alone: the follicles continue to be affected by elevated androgens regardless of what is applied to the scalp.

The Targeted Treatment

Spironolactone is an anti-androgen medication that reduces the influence of androgens on the hair follicle. For women with PCOS, this makes it one of the most directly targeted treatments available. It works on the same hormonal mechanism that is driving the hair loss, not just the effects of it.

Published dermatology research identifies spironolactone as one of the most effective anti-androgen treatments for women with androgen-related hair loss. It is particularly well suited to women with PCOS because it can also help with associated symptoms such as acne and excess facial hair.

At our clinic, we prescribe spironolactone and minoxidil together as Spiroxidil, where appropriate following a consultation with one of our hair loss doctors. Minoxidil stimulates regrowth. Spironolactone reduces the hormonal attack on the follicle. Together, they work more effectively than either alone.

Spironolactone is a prescription-only medication and is not suitable for everyone. Women who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant should not take it. Our doctors will assess your full medical history before recommending any treatment.

Many women with PCOS find spironolactone difficult to access through the NHS, where prescribing for hair loss can be inconsistent even when the clinical case is clear. Our clinic offers private consultations with qualified hair loss doctors who can assess your situation properly and, where appropriate, prescribe a treatment that addresses the cause.

Book a free consultation with one of our hair loss doctors. No pressure, no obligation.

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