Androgenetic alopecia: natural remedies

A combination of “andro” for androgen and “genetic” for its hereditary nature, this common condition is believed to be caused by a genetic predisposition that increases the sensitivity of our hair follicles to androgen hormones—commonly known as male hormones—even though women produce them naturally, albeit in smaller quantities.

Among androgen hormones, it is the action of DHT that is of particular interest to us—or, in reality, poses a problem. The action of DHT, or dihydrotestosterone, is considered to be about 5 to 10 times more potent than that of testosterone, from which it is derived. 

If it is secreted in excessive amounts or if there is a genetic predisposition making hair follicles more sensitive to this hormone (in about 80% of cases), then the size and lifespan of the follicles will decrease, gradually leading to thinning hair and reduced regrowth.

Androgenetic alopecia in women is a complex, multifactorial phenomenon that has not yet been fully elucidated.

While it is primarily caused by the predisposition described above, genetics is not the only factor. We now know that our genetic program is malleable. The same gene can be expressed very differently from one individual to another due to so-called epigenetic factors. These factors, which are mainly environmental and behavioral, can promote gene expression or, conversely, silence it.

Regarding AAG, specific epigenetic factors have been identified, such as oxidative stress, inflammation, and lifestyle factors like smoking, alcoholism, and obesity. And the good news is, we have control over these factors! 

Furthermore, other hormones can influence the progression of androgenetic alopecia in women, such as estrogens—which protect against androgens at the hair follicle level—as well as thyroid hormones and insulin. Yet these hormones are far too often overlooked in the management of this condition, even though regulating them can have a decisive impact on the progression of hair loss.

While the name is the same, the manifestation of AAG differs between the two sexes.

In women, the gradual loss of density tends to concentrate along the central part of the hairline. The hair becomes finer, miniaturizes, and thins out. In some cases, female AAG may follow the same pattern as in men, with the temporal area primarily affected—a sign generally associated with hormonal imbalance.

Beyond the phenomenon of miniaturization, other clinical signs may appear, such as lightening of hair color, increased sebum production causing the hair to become oily more quickly, and inflammation with redness, irritation, or pain.

This is why a thorough examination of the scalp by a specialized dermatologist, equipped with the appropriate tools, is essential for diagnosing the condition. The dermatologist can then perform a trichoscopy or a trichogram to make the most reliable diagnosis possible.

There is no cure for androgenetic alopecia—at least, not yet. But the good news is that its progression can be slowed.

To combat androgenetic alopecia, the first step is to get the right diagnosis. As you can see, we recommend starting by consulting a dermatologist who specializes in the scalp. They can recommend a treatment that slows hair loss by blocking the symptoms of the condition. 

Hair loss doesn’t necessarily mean androgenetic alopecia, even if the symptoms can sometimes resemble it.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), often associated with elevated levels of circulating androgen hormones, can cause androgenetic alopecia. In this case, it is not the receptors that are particularly hypersensitive to DHT, but rather DHT itself, which is secreted in excessive amounts. The issue is also multifactorial and requires a comprehensive approach involving conventional medicine in partnership with a holistic therapist.

Hair loss may also be due to chronic telogen effluvium or postpartum hair loss. Hair loss will be more rapid with diffuse thinning across the entire scalp. If this excessive hair loss continues for more than 6 weeks, do not hesitate to consult your primary care physician.

Suzie Desmet is a naturopath (ISUPNAT, FENA certified) specialising in natural hair health.

A sufferer of androgenetic alopecia herself, she helps women deal with the different types of hair loss (androgenetic, effluvium, post-partum) with a natural approach that addresses the root of the problem, not the symptoms.