Female pattern hair loss is an inherited condition, caused by a genetically determined sensitivity to the effects of dihydrotestosterone (DHT) in some areas of the scalp. DHT is believed to shorten the growth or anagen phase of the hair cycle, from a usual duration of 3–6 years to just weeks or months. This occurs together with the miniaturisation of the follicles and progressively produces fewer and finer hairs. An enzyme called 5-alpha reductase regulates the production of DHT.

At the same time, female pattern hair loss is also common after the menopause suggesting oestrogens may be stimulatory for hair growth. But laboratory experiments have also suggested oestrogens may suppress hair growth.

Increased hair shedding or telogen effluvium is a feature to female pattern hair loss. Women can snap and show photos of the hair shedding to a consultant or therapist, in order to define whether hair shedding is normal or excessive. Consultant or therapist will use the hair shedding scale to score hair loss at each visit to assess response to solution. Learn more about female pattern baldness solutions.