How To Stop Hair Loss Due To PCOS

Are you facing hair loss due to PCOS? Everyone wishes for healthy and voluminous hair because it often feels like a part of our identity. But when hair starts thinning, it can be upsetting, and this is something many individuals with PCOS experience as well. It can affect the way you feel about yourself and how confident you are each day. But do not worry, the good part is that PCOS-related hair loss can be managed and even reversed. With the right approach, simple lifestyle changes, and consistent care, many women do notice improvement and even regrowth over time.

What is the Cause of PCOS-related Hair Loss?

Firstly, it is important to understand about PCOS. It is a hormonal disorder that occurs due to hormonal imbalances in women during their reproductive years. These are the fluctuations in sex hormones, particularly an increase in androgen, which is also called the male hormone. While women naturally have androgens, their excess levels can lead to several symptoms, including hair thinning on the scalp. This pattern of hair loss is medically termed as androgenic alopecia.

Other factors linked to PCOS that can contribute to hair loss include:

• Insulin resistance which can worsen hormonal imbalances
• Inflammation in the body that affects hair follicles
• Stress and emotional strain which can accelerate hair shedding

Women with PCOS may notice a gradual thinning of hair at the crown and frontal scalp, sometimes accompanied by hair growth in unwanted areas such as the face and chest.

How PCOS Causes Hair Loss?

The hair loss due to PCOS is often a gradual process. Androgens, particularly dihydrotestosterone (DHT), attach to hair follicles and reduce their size. Over time, this shortens the growth phase of hair and produces finer, weaker strands. This is how the PCOS hair loss pattern starts, which is often observed at the temples or the crown of the head.

Apart from this, hormonal imbalances can interfere with the natural hair cycle, which causes more hairs to enter the shedding phase prematurely. This is why women often notice increased hair fall during stressful periods or irregular menstrual cycles.

How to Treat Hair Loss in PCOS?

It is a combination of medical treatment, lifestyle changes and proper hair care that gives the best results.

Medical Treatments

Treatment Option	How Does it Help?
Hormonal Therapy	Birth control pills or anti-androgen medications can help regulate hormone levels and reduce hair loss. These medicines reduce the effect of excess androgens on hair follicles.
Topical Treatments	Minoxidil is a commonly recommended solution that stimulates hair growth and strengthens thinning hair. Regular application is necessary for visible results.
Supplements for PCOS Hair Loss	Certain vitamins and minerals that support hair regrowth are: biotin, vitamin D, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids. These supplements address nutritional deficiencies that may be causing hair loss.
Hair Restoration Procedures	In severe cases, dermatologists may suggest platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy or hair transplant procedures. These approaches can improve hair density when combined with ongoing PCOS management.

Lifestyle Changes

Dietary Changes: 

• A balanced diet is important to manage hormonal health. Foods rich in protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates should be incorporated into the pcos diet.
• Foods like eggs, nuts, fish, leafy greens, and whole grains can help regulate insulin and support hair health.
• Avoid excessive processed sugars and refined carbohydrates that can worsen hormonal imbalances.

Exercise and Stress Management:

Regular physical activity helps improve insulin sensitivity and balance hormones. Mindfulness practices like yoga and meditation also reduce stress, which is a significant contributor to hair thinning and is often ignored.

 

Maintaining a Healthy Weight:

Even a moderate reduction in weight can positively influence hormonal balance, which may slow down hair loss.

Home Remedies for PCOS Hair Loss

• Gently massage your scalp with oils like coconut, castor or rosemary. This aids in improving blood circulation and nourishes hair follicles.
• Apply natural masks made with aloe vera, fenugreek or onion juice. These can help strengthen hair strands and reduce breakage.
• Avoid chemical treatments on your hair. Also, limit heat styling and tight hairstyles that can aggravate hair loss.

5 Tips to Prevent Hair Loss in PCOS

While treating hair loss is important, prevention plays an equally crucial role. Consider these 5 important preventive measures:

1. Track your hormone levels regularly.
2. Maintain a nutrient-rich and low-glycemic diet.
3. Manage stress and get adequate sleep.
4. Use gentle hair care products.
5. Track menstrual cycles to spot patterns related to hair shedding.

Implementing these strategies early may help slow down or even prevent further hair thinning.

When Should You Consult a Doctor?

If you have PCOS and notice significant hair thinning, sudden hair fall, or bald patches, it is time to consult a healthcare professional. Timely help can manage hair loss and even increase the chances of regrowth. Your doctor may suggest blood tests to check your hormonal levels, thyroid profile and nutritional deficiencies.

Here are some signs that need immediate attention:

• Rapid hair loss over a few weeks
• Scalp itching, redness, or scaling
• Hair loss accompanied by other PCOS symptoms, like irregular periods or weight gain

Is it Possible to Reverse PCOS Hair Loss?

Yes, PCOS hair loss can be reversed in many cases, especially when it is treated early. With a combination of medical treatment, lifestyle adjustments, and proper hair care, one can see noticeable improvement. Many women often report hair regrowth success with PCOS, including improved hair thickness, reduced shedding, and healthier scalp condition, after consistent treatment.

Wrapping it Up!

PCOS comes with its own challenges, and one common challenge that many women face is hair loss or hair thinning. But once you know why PCOS is causing the hair loss, you have many ways to manage it. Medical treatments, lifestyle modifications and eating a nutritious diet – all can make a big difference. Stay patient and consistent, and you will start to notice changes.

Know that everyone’s condition is unique, so what works wonders for one person might not do the same for others. That is why it is important to discuss your concerns with your doctor, who will create a personalised plan that will fit you and address your PCOS hair loss successfully. If you are facing PCOS-related hair loss, consult the leading dermatologists and gynaecologists at Birla Fertility & IVF.

FAQs

Can PCOS lead to hair loss?

Yes, PCOS can cause hair loss due to hormonal imbalances, particularly the release of excess androgens, which is a prime reason for hair thinning in PCOS.

How can I stop PCOS hair loss?

Consulting a healthcare professional can help you find the right treatment for your condition. Also, eating a balanced diet, taking supplements, managing stress, and practising gentle hair care can also help.

What are the best foods for PCOS hair loss?

Foods rich in protein, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals support hair growth. Include eggs, fish, nuts, leafy greens, and whole grains in your diet.

Can PCOS hair loss be reversed completely?

In many cases, hair loss can be reversed successfully. Timely action and consistent treatment improve hair regrowth and scalp health.

Which home remedies can help with PCOS hair loss?

Incorporate the following healthy practices:
– Eat a balanced diet
– Do scalp massages
– Apply natural masks with aloe vera or fenugreek
– Avoid harsh chemcals on the scalp