by Sachin Murdeshwar

PCOS-Polycystic ovarian syndrome, although characterised be excess growth of hair on the body, surprisingly-it is not so in case of hair on the scalp. More mind-boggling is the phenomenon that the hair on the scalp starts thinning out, eventually leading to its typical hair loss that follows a particular pattern-known as PCOS type baldness.

What exactly is it and how to face it, and prevent or slow down the hair loss?

Getting into the details of why this hair loss happens, the exact cause is unknown, but research is able derive a correlation between PCOS and hair loss. If you have PCOS, then your body stops responding to insulin-a condition known as “Insulin Resistance”. As a result, to control sugar your body misinterprets the cause and starts producing more insulin (the blood sugar-regulating hormone). The excess insulin increases the levels of male sex hormone, testosterone and dihydrotestosterone (DHT). In fact, DHT leads to thinning of hair follicles and prevents growth of new hair. Eventually, excess amount of testosterone starts building up, which causes hair loss and patterned baldness- typical of PCOS.

Before we try to take measures to prevent worsening of hair fall, we need to understand typical signs of this type of hair loss:

• Thinning Hair: This is the first symptom observed in PCOS hair loss, the thickness of your hair starts loosing.

• Widening At Hair Partitions:  The partitions of the hair start widening due to excess hair loss, thus resulting in partial balding.

• Patchy Hair Loss: Since PCOS is caused by the excess of testosterone, follows a particular type of baldness.

• Balding at the Crown: The crown region suffers from an abundant amount of hair loss

• Partial Balding: This happens eventually, as a result of prolonged hair loss and thinning.

Can PCOS hair loss be prevented and hair be re-grown?

Yes, PCOS hair loss can be reversed –but only if certain conditions are met, and if you follow your doctor’s prescriptions. The right combination of hair loss treatment and following a healthy lifestyle which entails a strict diet, a regular exercise, and regular follow-ups with the doctor, can reduce the level of testosterone in the body and keep a check on the hair fall, and in some cases regrow it.

How to Stop Hair Fall Due To PCOS?

Besides, your doctor’s advice and medications, following approaches will prevent worsening of your hair fall.You can read more on hair loss and hormones on HairGuard – the expert site for this.

Diet: Try to consume more of fruits and vegetables, and PCOS friendly diet. Avoid oily and fatty food.

Exercise: Physical exercise reduces stress and weight, which in turn may help to control symptoms of PCOS with some effect on hair fall.

Reducing Stress: Stress is directly associated with hair fall.  It is also associated with PCOS. Meditate frequently to tackle mental and physical stress.

Enough Sleep: Lack of sleep can disturb the hormonal balance, leading to PCOS and hair fall. Try to attain 6-8 hours of daily sleep.

DO NOT SMOKE: Excessive smoking can lead to rise in the level of androgen in your body.

Comfortable Hairstyles: Have a comfortable hairstyle and don’t stiffen your hair too much. Excess pressure on hair can loosen its thickness and lead to shedding.

Choose The Right Shampoo: Pick a shampoo and conditioner that suits your hair and scalp, avoiding those that are harsh on your hair. Ask your dermatologist.

Avoid Blow Dryers: Extreme heat like in case of blow dryers and hair straighteners, can weaken it causing it to fall further. Thus, blow dryers should be avoided.

Do Not Touch or Pull Your Hair: Trichotillomania is a condition which urges one to touch or pull the hair which can cause further hair loss. Remember do not ruffle your hair often and take treatment if you feel you have the signs for trichotillomania.