How do hormones affect your hairstyle?

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) – more than just a menstrual problem

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is one of the hormonal disorders affecting women of reproductive age. This condition not only makes it difficult to conceive or causes irregular menstruation but also affects appearance – particularly the hair. Even worse, in many cases, it leads to hair thinning and even baldness.

But how is it that an ovarian problem can affect hair condition? It all comes down to hormones – specifically an excess of androgens.

PCOS and hormones – why are you losing hair?

PCOS is a real hormonal storm in a woman’s body. One of its key symptoms is hyperandrogenism, which is the overproduction of male hormones (androgens), such as testosterone and its active derivative – dihydrotestosterone (DHT).

Although androgens play an important role in female body functions, their excess can wreak havoc, especially when it comes to skin and hair. It is dihydrotestosterone (DHT) that is the main culprit in hair loss in women with PCOS.

How does DHT work? Simply put – it attacks hair follicles on the scalp, causing their miniaturization. As a result, hair becomes thinner, weaker, and eventually stops growing. Sound familiar? Yes, PCOS very often goes hand in hand with androgenic alopecia.

Symptoms of PCOS on the scalp and body – hirsutism vs. hair loss

Since PCOS causes overproduction of androgens, one might think women with this condition should have lush and thick hair. Unfortunately, the reality is different. High levels of male hormones lead to a rather paradoxical phenomenon:

• Androgenic hair loss on the scalp – hair mainly falls out around the parting and crown area, similar to men with typical baldness.
• Excessive body hair (hirsutism) – thick, dark hair appears in unusual places for women: on the face, chest, abdomen, or back.

These are two faces of the same problem – excess androgens. While hair follicles on the scalp are sensitive to DHT and undergo miniaturization, those on the body react quite the opposite, causing excessive hair growth.

Can hair loss caused by PCOS be stopped?

Good news? Hair loss resulting from PCOS can be controlled. Bad news? There is no one magical solution.

Here are the key steps that can help:

1. Hormone therapy – controlling androgens

Since the root of the problem is an excess of male hormones, regulating them seems to be the logical solution. For this purpose, doctors often prescribe:

• Oral contraceptives – regulate the menstrual cycle and lower androgen levels.
• Spironolactone – an antiandrogen medication that can reduce excessive hair growth and limit hair loss.
• Metformin – mainly used to treat insulin resistance, but may also help regulate hormones in PCOS.

2. Proper diet and lifestyle

It is undeniable that PCOS is closely related to insulin resistance, which is a disrupted sugar metabolism in the body. Excess insulin prompts the ovaries to produce more androgens – and the cycle continues.

Changing eating habits can help stabilize blood sugar levels, thereby reducing androgen excess. What is worth implementing?

• Low-carb and low glycemic index diet – avoiding sugar and processed products may help regulate insulin.
• Healthy fats and protein – support hormonal balance and hair condition.
• Physical activity – regular exercise can improve insulin sensitivity and reduce PCOS symptoms.

3. Trichological support and scalp care

If hair is falling out in handfuls, it is worth visiting a trichologist, a specialist in hair and scalp health. What can help?

• Trichological peels – cleanse the scalp of excess sebum, which may improve follicle condition.
• Minoxidil – a topical medication that stimulates hair growth.
• Scalp mesotherapy – a procedure involving microneedling combined with an active ampoule. Stimulates hair growth.

4. Supplementation for healthy hair

Some nutrients can support hair growth and reduce the effects of PCOS. It is worth reaching for:

• B vitamins – strengthen hair and improve its condition.
• Zinc – helps regulate hormones and reduces excessive hair loss.
• Myo-inositol – supports hormonal balance and helps combat insulin resistance.

How to regain healthy hair with PCOS?

PCOS is a disease that has a huge impact on a woman’s body – including hair. High androgen levels cause both hair loss on the scalp and excessive body hair.

Fortunately, it can be addressed! The key to improving hair condition is:

* Causal treatment, i.e. hormone regulation.
* Healthy diet and physical activity.
* Proper scalp care.
* Supplementation supporting hair.

Remember – PCOS is not a verdict! Although hormonal problems cannot be completely eliminated, proper treatment and self-care can significantly improve hair appearance and well-being.