MDacne
Adult acne and female pattern hair loss are causes for stress and concern in many women. In many cases, they come hand in hand.
What are the most common causes of adult acne and women's hair loss?
Hormones-related acne and hair loss:
Excessive male hormones (androgens) or hypersensitivity of the oil glands in our skin and hair follicles are the most common cause of adult acne and hair loss in women.
Changes in male/female hormonal balance occur normally in different stages of women's lives. Throughout adolescence, during and after pregnancy, and before and after menopause. Conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can also disrupt hormonal balance and cause more acne breakouts and increased hair loss.
Stress-related acne and hair loss:
Another common trigger for adult acne and hair loss is stress.
Acute or chronic stress can cause the release of more cortisol, a hormone that causes more acne and can cause excessive hair shedding and hair thinning. The same will happen in women that suffer from lack of sleep, dehydration, or are exposed to extreme physical stress or weather condition.
Diet and other factors:
Inadequate diets are another trigger for adult acne breakouts and women's hair loss. The hair follicles and the attached oil glands require certain micronutrients to function. This micronutrient includes vitamins, minerals, and amino acids.
Medication-related acne and hair loss:
Some medications have also been found to cause adult acne and hair loss. Examples are certain corticosteroids, antidepressants, and epilepsy medications. Certain types of birth control pills and hormonal coated IUDs have been found to make acne worse. Using certain types of oral contraceptives can also cause, in some women, more hair shedding.
What are the best treatments for women with adult acne and hair loss?
The first step in these cases should be an accurate diagnosis of hormonal status. Once underlining measurable hormonal imbalances are ruled out, acne and hair loss should be addressed.
Topical treatments:
The best topical treatment for mild to moderate adult acne would be retinoid creams combined with niacinamide. In most cases, one can start with retinol 0.25% /niacinamide 2% cream and, after two months, switch to the more potent 0.5/4%.
The best topical treatment for female pattern hair loss will be minoxidil 2% from a reputable brand. Women that prefer a plant-based active treatment can try the restore scalp treatment combined with a good hair regrowth shampoo.
Oral treatments:
Spironolactone, originally an anti-hypertension medication, is used by dermatologists to reduce adult acne. Another excellent option is using DIM supplements. This natural active ingredient extracted from cruciferous vegetables was shown to help with hormonal imbalance and is believed to support topical treatment of adult acne.
Women with mild to moderate female pattern hair loss can also benefit from adding DHT blocking supplements to their routine. The regrowth supplements include some of the best active plant-based supplements - saw palmetto nettle combined with more than 20 scalp stimulating hair-growing ingredients.
More info on adult acne
More info on genetic and hormonal women's hair loss
More info on postpartum hair loss
More info on menopause-related hair loss
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