Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common condition that can affect many aspects of our health. It is estimated that around 1 in 10 women in the UK have it. It is a complex issue which has various symptoms which can significantly impact overall health and well-being. Irregular periods, infertility, weight gain, acne and excess hair on the face and body are some of the challenging issues the syndrome can cause. And among the many symptoms, hair loss on the head is one of the most common and distressing problems. Here’s the lowdown on PCOS and hair loss.
Understanding PCOS: What It Is And Who It Affects
PCOS is a disorder characterized by multiple cysts on the ovaries. The cysts are small sacs of fluid that develop on the outside edge of the ovary which contain immature eggs. The exact cause of the syndrome is yet to be established. But it’s thought a combination of factors may contribute to the condition:
- Hormonal imbalance – this includes higher levels of androgens (male hormones) and lower levels of progesterone, a hormone that plays a key role in the reproductive system.
- Resistance to insulin – many women with PCOS have insulin resistance, which means their cells don’t respond normally to the hormone. Higher insulin levels can increase androgen production.
- Inflammation – low-grade inflammation can again promote androgen production in the ovaries.
- Genetics – PCOS tends to run in families. So, if your Mum or sister has it, your chances of developing it are higher.
PCOS can happen as early as our first menstrual cycle, but it can happen later too. While PCOS can be a lifelong condition, its symptoms can vary significantly. For some women, it is very debilitating, while others have the condition but experience no obvious effects, so might not even be aware they have it.
The Links Between PCOS And Hair Loss
Hair loss on the heads of women with PCOS is primarily down to the effects of hormonal imbalances, with elevated androgen levels playing a leading role. These male hormones are always present in women, but usually in much smaller amounts. Androgens can shrink hair follicles on the head, and can also shorten the hair growth cycle, leading to thinner hair. Chronic inflammation is another cause, as it can damage hair follicles and impede their ability to grow hair. And living with PCOS can be very physically and emotionally distressing, which can also impact hair health.
PCOS And Hair Loss: Managing The Problem
Diagnosing PCOS is based on evaluating the symptoms, physical examination, blood tests and ultrasound imaging. There is currently no cure for PCOS, but many of the symptoms can be managed by a combination of treatments and lifestyle changes.
Medication
There are a range of medications that can help treat PCOS and its symptoms. Oral contraceptives can help regulate menstrual cycles and reduce androgen levels. A drug called spironolactone is an anti-androgen which is sometimes prescribed to help women with PCOS.
Lifestyle Changes
PCOS is a chronic condition, but proactive management can make a big difference. Lifestyle changes can be very helpful in managing PCOS and mitigating the severity of symptoms. Here are some key areas where making changes to the way we live our lives can improve matters, including PCOS and hair loss.
Diet & Exercise
There is a strong link between weight and PCOS, particularly in women who are genetically predisposed to the syndrome. Maintaining a healthy weight via diet and exercise is very important. Even a small weight reduction (as little as 5%) can improve symptoms by improving insulin sensitivity. Not only will that help PCOS and hair loss, but it’ll lower the risk of developing diabetes. A good diet will help support hormonal balance too, while regular exercise enhances metabolic health.
Stress Management
Lowering stress is very important in managing PCOS symptoms. Stress increases the body’s cortisol levels; a hormone produced by the adrenal glands in response to stress. For women with PCOS, elevated cortisol levels can worsen issues by disrupting hormonal balance while it can also interfere with insulin resistance. High cortisol levels also contribute to chronic inflammation. Regular physical activity, meditation and social interactions all help to lower cortisol levels. Getting adequate sleep is a must.
PCOS And Hair Loss – How Hair Gain Can Help
To support women suffering from PCOS, a holistic approach is needed. While tailored, prescribed medication and lifestyle changes can help improve symptoms, managing PCOS-related hair loss can benefit from a further layer of targeted support. Hair Gain’s award-winning supplements and topicals should be part of every holistic hair care strategy.
Amazing Supplements
Hair Gain Hair Capsules and Hair Gain Hair Gummies have been scientifically formulated to support healthy hair from within. With their blend of the signature AnaGain™ ingredient with essential hair vitamins and minerals like biotin and zinc, our supplements promote hair growth and overall hair health.
Topical Treatments
Our powerful topicals will reinforce every hair care strategy from the outside. Our luxurious Hair Gain Hair Mask deeply penetrates the hair cortex while nourishing the scalp, stimulating specific signal molecules in the dermal papilla required to reactivate hair growth. It also gives the tresses intense hydration, leading to stronger, fuller and healthier hair. And foam your way to fuller hair with our Hair Gain Scalp Foam. Its weightless formula works to revitalise the scalp while reducing hair fall. And to care for your hair and scalp between washes, don’t miss our next-gen Peptide Puff™ dry shampoo, featuring a blend of scalp-loving ingredients that are instantly absorbed while reviving and volumizing the hair.
Final Thoughts
PCOS is a complex condition that can affect many aspects of our health. Understanding the underlying causes is crucial in finding effective treatments to manage the condition. For PCOS and hair loss, taking a holistic approach which combines medication, lifestyle changes and brilliant hair care products, women with PCOS can take proactive steps to improve their hair health and overall well-being.
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