Top 10 Misconceptions of Androgenetic Alopecia in Women

Debunking many of the myths and misconceptions associated with this common type of hair loss.

4. “…I cannot use perms, dye, tease or spray my hair.”
It is safe to wash hair every day and to use hair sprays, gels, dyes, perms and mousses to enhance hair styles and create fullness.

3. “…my androgen levels are normal.”
Androgens do have an important role within androgenetic alopecia, but the levels of circulating androgens in men or women with pattern baldness may be well within the normal range. Testosterone converts to DHT (dihydrotestosterone) from the 5 alpha-reductase enzyme in various tissues, scalp hair follicles included. In hair follicles that are genetically susceptible, DHT initiates a series of events on a molecular level, which causes the transformation of terminal follicles to miniaturized follicles.

2. “…the doctor’s visit will be hasty.”
In comparison to men, women are often more emotionally devastated by their hair loss. Dermatologists or physicians should treat the patient with sensitivity and address her fears, concerns and questions. The doctor should take the patient seriously if she is mentioning that she is experiencing hair loss even if it is not initially apparent. A careful and thorough evaluation should be necessary to rule out thyroid disease, hair loss due to medications, inadequate diet or iron deficiency. Although the patient may be concerned at the end of the evaluation, the diagnosis might be a little easier to accept if the physician has taken adequate time to answer questions and address fears.cycles and no increase in incidence of acne or hirsuitism.

1. “…it’s a genetic thing, there is nothing that can be done.”
Untrue! In comparison to a few years ago, there has been more treatments for women who have androgenetic alopecia. Although Minoxidil is the only FDA approved treatment for women in terms of this type of hair loss, there are many other options that can be included in treating this condition.