Hair & Scalp
Female Pattern Hair Loss
FPHL; female androgenetic alopecia
Very common, increasing with age
No — you cannot catch it or spread it
Manageable; treatment slows loss & can regrow
What Is It?
Female pattern hair loss is a common, gradual thinning of hair, mainly over the top and crown of the scalp, usually with a widening part. Unlike men, women rarely go completely bald. It tends to progress slowly over years, and early treatment gives the best chance of keeping and regrowing hair.
Signs & Symptoms
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Gradual thinning over the top and crown
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A widening part line
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Finer, shorter hairs over time
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Reduced overall hair volume and ponytail thickness
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Frontal hairline usually preserved
Why Does It Happen?
It's driven by a genetic tendency for hair follicles to gradually shrink and produce finer, shorter hairs, influenced by hormones and aging. It can become more noticeable after menopause. Sometimes it's worsened by thyroid problems, low iron, or other medical issues, which is why checking for contributing factors is helpful. It is NOT caused by hair care or washing.
Treatment Options
Treatment slows thinning and can regrow some hair; it works best started early and continued long-term. Checking for iron, thyroid, or other contributors is part of the workup.
MINOXIDIL
Topical (or low-dose oral) minoxidil to slow loss and regrow hair.
ANTI-ANDROGEN PILLS
Spironolactone or finasteride to counter hormonal effects (not in pregnancy).
CHECK CONTRIBUTORS
Screening for iron deficiency, thyroid, and other causes.
PROCEDURES
PRP or hair transplant for selected cases.
Tips for Managing It at Home
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Start treatment early — it protects the hair you still have
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Use treatments consistently; benefits fade if you stop
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Be gentle with styling; avoid tight, pulling hairstyles
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Ask about iron and thyroid testing
When to Call Your Provider
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Sudden, patchy, or rapid hair loss (different from gradual thinning)
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Scalp redness, scaling, itching, or scarring
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Signs of hormonal issues (irregular periods, acne, extra hair growth)
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You'd like to start or adjust treatment
Sources & further reading
The information in this handout is based on general dermatology guidance from the reputable organizations below. These links are provided for patients who wish to read more from trusted sources.
American Academy of Dermatology (AAD). Female Pattern Hair Loss. https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/hair-loss/types/female-pattern
Canadian Dermatology Association (CDA). Alopecia. https://dermatology.ca/public-patients/diseases-conditions/hair-conditions/alopecia/
DermNet. Female Pattern Hair Loss. https://dermnetnz.org/topics/female-pattern-hair-loss
MSD/Merck Manual. Alopecia. https://www.msdmanuals.com/professional/dermatologic-disorders/hair-disorders/alopecia
This handout is for general education and does not replace advice from your own provider. Always follow your provider’s specific instructions.
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