Female Pattern Hair Loss

Female pattern hair loss (FPHL) also known as androgenetic alopecia is the most common cause of hair loss.

It is responsible for two thirds of all causes of female hair loss. It is caused by androgens in genetically sensitive women.

40% of women by the time they reach the menopause will have female pattern hair loss.

Only recently are the psychological implications of hair loss beginning to be appreciated by the medical profession.

Recent studies confirm the psychologically detrimental effects of FPHL particularly on women. This is seen specifically as loss of self confidence, low self esteem and heightened self-consciousness.

Other studies have illustrated that the hair loss associated with FPHL results in anxiety and distress that appears to be more severe than an objective assessment would appear to imply, reflecting a profound symbolic and psychosocial importance of hair.

The effect of hair loss on quality of life has been shown to be similar to the effect of severe psoriasis.