Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common hormonal disorders in women, affecting about 1 in 10 women of reproductive age worldwide, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). PCOS is known to result in irregular periods, weight gain, acne, and fertility concerns. If you’re wondering if PCOS causes hair loss, the answer is yes. PCOS-related hair thinning happens due to hormonal imbalances, but the good news is that there are ways to manage it.
How Does PCOS Cause Hair Loss?
PCOS-related hair loss is caused by hormonal abnormalities, namely elevated amounts of male hormones (androgens) such as testosterone. These hormones disrupt the hair growth cycle, resulting in thinner, weaker hair and greater shedding. This type of hair loss is known as female pattern hair loss (androgenetic alopecia).
How Androgens Affect Hair Growth
Androgens, especially dihydrotestosterone (DHT), attach to hair follicles on the scalp and make them shrink. This process, known as miniaturization, causes hair strands to thin and weaken over time.
High DHT levels also shorten the hair growth phase (anagen phase) while extending the resting phase (telogen phase). This means hair falls out faster than it can grow back, leading to gradual thinning.
Insulin Resistance and Hair Loss
Many women with PCOS also have insulin resistance, which causes the body to produce more insulin than usual. High insulin levels cause the ovaries to release excess testosterone, which can exacerbate hair loss. This is why regulating blood sugar levels through diet and exercise may help slow PCOS-related hair loss.
What Does PCOS Hair Loss Look Like?
PCOS-related hair loss usually appears as thinning rather than complete baldness. It follows a female pattern, meaning the hair becomes gradually finer and less dense instead of forming bald patches. Here’s how it typically looks:
- Gradual Thinning – Hair strands become thinner over time, especially at the crown or along the part line.
- Widening Part Line – The gap between hair strands increases, making more of the scalp visible.
- Receding Hairline – Some women notice thinning near the front of the scalp.
- Increased Shedding – Brushing and shampooing cause more hair to fall out.
Unlike male pattern baldness, which frequently results in a receding hairline or bald areas, PCOS hair loss is more equally distributed throughout the scalp.
Symptoms of PCOS-Related Hair Loss
PCOS-related hair loss can show up in different ways for different people. Here are some common signs to look out for:
Shedding
It’s normal to shed hair every day, but if you’re losing more than usual, it could be a sign of PCOS-related hair loss. Watch for these signs:
- Is your hair looking thinner than before?
- Does your hairbrush catch more hair than usual?
- Do you have clumps of hair on your pillow or in the shower drain?
Itchy and Dry Scalp
Women with PCOS may also have a dry, itchy scalp and dandruff. Here are some signs of dandruff:
- Is your scalp itchier than usual?
- Does your scalp look sore or red?
- Are there white or yellow flakes on your scalp?
- Do you see these flakes on your clothes often?
Hair Thinning
If you’re wondering if PCOS causes hair thinning, the answer is yes. It is one of the most noticeable signs of PCOS-related hair loss. It often affects various areas of the scalp but is most commonly seen at the crown or along the part line. Over time, the hair may become more brittle, fragile, and harder to manage, making it feel thinner and less full
Bald Spots
With PCOS, you may notice bald patches. These are most common on the crown (top of your head) or near the front of your scalp. Bald spots don’t usually appear suddenly but develop after progressive thinning.
Other Common PCOS Symptoms
PCOS can cause other symptoms, including:
- Excessive body hair (especially in a male pattern, also known as hirsutism)
- Weight increase, particularly in the abdomen.
- Irregular, light, or absent periods
- Acne caused by oily skin
- Infertility or trouble getting pregnant
- Increased chance of miscarriage or pregnancy complications
- Her ovaries were large and filled with cysts.
- Skin discoloration around the neck, groin, and under your breasts
Women with PCOS might also notice their hair becoming dry, brittle, and thinner. The dryness can lead to more breakage, especially when styling, which worsens hair thinning and loss.
How Does PCOS Hair Loss Progress?
PCOS hair loss progresses differently for each individual, although many people encounter similar patterns.
It often starts with gradual thinning, especially at the front of the scalp or near the crown. As the hair continues to thin, you may notice your part line becoming wider and your scalp becoming more visible.
While it’s not always possible to fully reverse PCOS hair loss, treatments are often aimed at preventing further hair loss. Some treatments may also help with regrowth, but they usually focus on slowing the process rather than reversing all the damage.
How to Manage PCOS Hair Loss
Managing PCOS-related hair loss requires a combination of medical treatments, lifestyle changes, and natural remedies to address both hormonal imbalances and scalp health.
Medical Treatments
Hormonal Therapy:
- Birth control pills can help to balance hormones and lower androgens.
- Spironolactone is often prescribed to block androgen receptors and lower DHT levels.
Topical Treatments:
- Minoxidil (Rogaine) stimulates hair growth by extending the hair development phase.
- Ketoconazole shampoos may help reduce DHT activity on the scalp.
Nutritional Supplements:
- Biotin and zinc are important for healthy hair growth.
- Myo-inositol may improve insulin sensitivity and lower androgen levels.
Lifestyle Changes
Dietary Changes:
- Maintain a low-glycemic diet rich in whole grains, lean meats, and healthy fats.
- Consume anti-inflammatory foods like berries, leafy greens, and fatty fish
Exercise:
- Regular exercise helps improve insulin sensitivity and balance hormones.
Stress Management:
- Chronic stress might worsen hormonal abnormalities. Yoga and meditation are two practices that can help reduce stress.
Natural Remedies
Essential Oils:
- Rosemary oil may improve scalp circulation and encourage hair growth.
Herbal Supplements:
- Saw palmetto might help block DHT production naturally.
Scalp Massage:
- Regular scalp massages can increase blood flow to hair follicles, which may support growth.
When to See a Doctor
If you notice your hair loss is related to PCOS or if it becomes more severe, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider. Early treatment can help prevent further damage and improve your results.
Prevent and Manage PCOS Hair Loss
Managing PCOS-related hair loss is about understanding and addressing the hormonal imbalances behind it. While hair loss can be a challenge, a combination of medical treatments, lifestyle changes, and natural remedies can help reduce the impact. Taking early steps to control the condition can make a big difference in maintaining both your hair and overall health, even though PCOS-related hair loss may not always be fully reversible.