The Connection between Hormones and Hair Loss

In the last edition of Aesthetic Medicine India, Shriyal Sethumadhavan unraveled the interplay of hormones and hair health and explored how these can be addressed with aesthetic treatments and nutrition. In this special hair edition, we offer you a snapshot of the same.

Hair growth is intricately linked to hormonal balance, making hormones pivotal players in the hair cycleand follicle structure. Renowned hair experts, Dr Pankaj Chaturvedi, Hair Transplant Surgeon and Founder, MedLinks Clinic, Delhi, emphasises the significant role of androgen hormones, particularly DHEA and testosterone, often termed “male” hormones, in overall hair growth. Elevated levels of these hormones can result in excessive body or facial hair, while a drop in levels may lead to hair thinning and loss.

Dr Anil Ganjoo, Sr Consultant Dermatologist and Laser Surgeon, and Director, Skinnovation Clinics, a senior consultant dermatologist, sheds light on the impact of androgens on the scalp’s androgen-dependent hair. High androgen levels and increased androgen receptor sensitivity can downregulate androgen-dependent hair, contributing to androgenic hair loss. Additionally, thyroid hormones play a crucial role in maintaining normal hair follicle function, and imbalances, such as hypothyroidism, can lead to hair loss.

Aesthetic doctor Dr Ishan Sardesai, Aesthetic Doctor, Founder of The Face Centre, highlights the specific impact of hormonal imbalances in androgenetic alopecia, affecting males’ vertex and frontotemporal regions and females’ central partition. Moreover, he underscores the influence of various factors like stress, smoking, viral infections, poor diet, and lack of sleep on hair loss.

Key points and takeaways

• Hormonal influence: Hormones like DHEA, testosterone, and thyroid hormones significantly influence hair growth and loss.

• Androgenic impact: Androgens, especially DHT, and 5 alpha reductase enzyme activity contribute to androgenic hair loss.

• Thyroid connection: Thyroid hormones play a vital role in maintaining normal hair follicle function, and imbalances can lead to hair loss.

• Androgenetic alopecia: Hormonal imbalances contribute to androgenetic alopecia, affecting specific regions in males and females.

• Additional factors: Stress, smoking, viral infections, poor diet, and lack of sleep can also contribute to hair loss.

Treating hormonal-related hair loss

• PRP therapy: Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) emerges as an effective treatment, stimulating hair growth through the release of growth factors.

• Regenerative therapies: PRP and regenerative therapies serve as universal stimulators of hair growth, aiding in various situations, including hormonal hair loss.

• Mesotherapy: Aesthetic treatments like mesotherapy, combined with PRP or its advanced version GFC, are crucial for stopping hair loss, thickening existing hair, and promoting new growth.

• Combination approach: Acombined approach involving aesthetic treatments, oral or topical medications, and lifestyle changes is recommended for optimal results.

In conclusion, understanding the intricate relationship between hormones and hair health allows for targeted treatments, ensuring comprehensive care for individuals experiencing hormonal-related hair issues.