Medical Hair Restoration for Women

Medical Treatment for female-pattern hair loss differs slightly from that in men. First of all, the accurate and appropriate diagnosis should be made. In men, the vast majority of hair loss is genetic. In fact, genetic causes of hair loss is so common that the diagnostic workup is usually short and limited. But in women, although genetic pattern loss is most common, it is not overwhelmingly so. Consequently, when women have hair loss, other medical explanations should be explored. This usually includes blood tests and sometimes scalp biopsies.

Minoxidil. Marketed under the trade name, Rogaine, is available for use in women at a lower dose strength (2% compared to 5% strength in men). The 2% is available as both a name-brand and as a generic (Sam’s Club). This medication, similar to that in men, is available without the need for a prescription.
Spironolactone is another medication that is commonly used for female-pattern alopecia. This medication has been FDA approved as a blood pressure treatment for many years. Spironolactone works primarily as a diuretic, functioning in the kidney by blocking reabsorption of some of the electrolytes in the urine. This effectively increases urine output flushing out both water and electrolytes. One of the side-effects noted in those taking Spironolactone is increased hair growth!! Spironolactone has been found to be an androgen (masculinizing hormone) blocker, likely accounting for some of the beneficial affects on hair.

While Spironolactone is not FDA approved for hair loss, it is commonly used off-label for this condition. Spironolactone is generally a safe and effective medication but comes with two notable side-effects. First, as a diuretic causing increased urine output, risk of dehydration increases. It is important to maintain adequate fluid intake to account for the increased urine output especially in dry/hot environments. Second, Spironolactone is a potassium-sparing diuretic. This means that potassium is selectively reabsorbed while some of the other electrolytes are blocked and ultimately flushed out in the urine. So, taking Spironolactone can cause an elevation in your blood potassium levels. While small changes in the potassium level is normal and not noticeable, large or dramatic changes can produce adverse symptoms and can be dangerous.

So, if Spironolactone is recommended, frequent and regular checks of your blood potassium levels will be required. This includes before beginning treatment and during treatment. The vast majority of patients will see little to no change in their blood potassium levels during treatment, but ongoing tests are necessary to detect those rare situations where potassium levels rise to dangerous levels. Blood potassium levels are checked with a simple and commonly performed blood test done in most doctor’s offices.

LLLT (Low Level Laser Therapy)

Minoxidil can be found at most major pharmacies. There are both the name brands available as well as generic alternatives. Sam’s Club makes a generic Minoxidil that is very affordable. The foam is currently only available by purchasing the name brand.

One of the most difficult things with the Hair Comb Max is that the device is difficult and cumbersome to use. It much be physically combed through ones hair for 15 minutes at a time, every day.

At Utah Hair Restoration, we offer LLLT as both a single treatment regimen or in combination with other hair loss treatment modalities (transplant, medications, etc… ) The device we recommend is the Capillus cap.

If you think you are a candidate, please schedule an in-person consultation or video Skype consultation to discuss LLLT with Dr. Bitner. Please go to the Capillus website for more details and information on the laser delivery system.