How can FMPHL(Female Pattern Hair Loss) be treated?
Medical treatment
- 2% or 5% minoxidil solution is applied to the scalp to slow down the progression and partially restore hair in some women.
- Minoxidil solution should only be applied to the scalp. Any spillage to the forehead or cheeks should be cleansed to avoid increased hair growth in these areas.
- Minoxidil should be used for at least 6 months before any benefit may be noted.
- Oral treatments such as spironolactone, cyproterone acetate, flutamide and cimetidine can block the action of DHT (hormone) on the scalp, which may lead to some improvement in hair loss.
- Spironolactone and cyproterone acetate should be avoided in pregnancy since they can cause feminisation of a male foetus; both should be avoided during breast feeding. Flutamide carries a risk of damaging the liver.
Surgical Treatment
Hair transplantation is a procedure where hair follicles are taken from the back and sides of the scalp and transplanted onto the bald areas.