Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal condition that affects around 1 in 10 women of reproductive age. While symptoms like irregular periods, acne and weight fluctuations are well known, another side effect can be particularly distressing: hair loss.
If you’ve noticed thinning hair or increased shedding and suspect PCOS may be the cause, you’re not alone. In this article, we’ll explain why PCOS causes hair loss and share practical steps you can take to support healthy regrowth.
1. Why Does PCOS Cause Hair Loss?
PCOS is driven by a hormonal imbalance, particularly higher levels of androgens (male hormones such as testosterone). These excess androgens can affect the hair growth cycle in two key ways:
Hair thinning on the scalp
High androgen levels shrink hair follicles, especially at the crown and hairline, leading to a pattern of thinning similar to male-pattern hair loss.
This is called androgenic alopecia and is one of the most common causes of PCOS-related hair changes.
Increased hair growth in other areas
Ironically, while scalp hair thins, women with PCOS may also experience hirsutism – excess hair growth on the face, chest or abdomen.
This contrast can feel particularly frustrating, but it’s important to remember that both are symptoms of the same hormonal imbalance.
2. Recognising PCOS-Related Hair Thinning
Hair loss linked to PCOS often appears as:
Widening part line
Thinning at the crown
Overall loss of volume rather than patchy bald spots
Gradual progression over time rather than sudden shedding
If you notice these signs alongside other PCOS symptoms, it’s worth speaking with a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and management.
3. PCOS Hair Loss: Treatment & Regrowth Options
Medical Treatments
Minoxidil (topical): A clinically proven treatment that stimulates hair follicles and encourages regrowth. Safe and effective for many women with PCOS hair loss.
Oral medications: Certain medications prescribed by doctors (such as spironolactone or oral contraceptives) can help regulate hormones and reduce androgen activity, indirectly supporting hair health.
Personalised treatment plans: Services like Hair + Me offer personalised regrowth treatment plans that address follicle-level needs.
Lifestyle & Self-Care Approaches
Nutrition: Eating a balanced diet rich in iron, vitamin D and protein supports healthy hair growth. Managing blood sugar levels through low-GI foods can also improve hormonal balance.
Stress management: Stress can worsen PCOS symptoms, including hair loss. Practices like yoga, meditation or regular exercise may help.
Gentle hair care: Avoid heat styling, harsh chemicals and tight hairstyles that can put extra strain on already fragile follicles.
Cosmetic Options
Volumising hairstyles and professional cuts can make thinning less noticeable.
Scalp micropigmentation or hair toppers offer cosmetic solutions while regrowth treatments take effect.
4. Is Oral Minoxidil The Right Treatment For You?
Oral minoxidil is an effective treatment for hair regrowth for both men and women. Unlike topical minoxidil, which acts locally on the scalp, the oral form circulates throughout the body.
Women with PCOS can take oral minoxidil to treat PCOS-related hair loss, but there is a risk of side effects:
Hypertrichosis: unwanted hair growth on the face and body (due to the nature of oral minoxidil circulating around the body)
Cardiovascular risks: fluid retention, swelling and changes in blood pressure, which is especially concerning since women with PCOS are already at higher risk of metabolic and heart-related conditions.
For these reasons, most experts recommend topical minoxidil as safer and more effective than oral minoxidil.
5. Coping with the Emotional Side of PCOS Hair Loss
Hair loss can have a significant emotional impact, affecting confidence and self-esteem. Remember:
You are not alone – PCOS is one of the most common causes of hair thinning in women.
Regrowth is possible with the right combination of medical, lifestyle and cosmetic strategies.
Support groups, online communities and speaking openly with healthcare providers can help you feel less isolated.
Final Thoughts
Hair loss from PCOS is caused by hormonal imbalances that affect the growth cycle of scalp hair. While frustrating, there are effective treatments and strategies that can support regrowth and restore confidence.
From proven medical treatments like minoxidil, to hormone-balancing approaches and lifestyle changes, managing PCOS hair loss is about consistency and finding the right plan for you.
If you’re struggling with thinning hair from PCOS, know that support is available – and taking action now can help you see meaningful improvements in the months ahead.
At Hair + Me, our personalised hair regrowth treatments are designed by dermatologists to support people experiencing PCOS-related hair loss. We use the clinically proven ingredient minoxidil in a topical format (The Drops), applied directly to the scalp once a day. This targeted approach ensures hair growth occurs only on the scalp, with no impact on other areas of the body. To see if you’re eligible for treatment, you can complete our 100% online consultation below.
References
Carmina E, Azziz R, Bergfeld W, Escobar-Morreale HF, Futterweit W, Huddleston H, Lobo R, Olsen E. Female Pattern Hair Loss and Androgen Excess: A Report From the Multidisciplinary Androgen Excess and PCOS Committee. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2019 Jul 1;104(7):2875-2891
Jiang VS, Hawkins SD, McMichael A. Female pattern hair loss and polycystic ovarian syndrome: more than just hirsutism. Curr Opin Endocrinol Diabetes Obes. 2022 Dec 1;29(6):535-540
Klein EJ, Oh CS, Karim M, Shapiro J, Lo Sicco K. A practical approach to the management of hair loss in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol. 2023 Jan 6Helpful Resources
Helpful Resources
NHS - Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Overview
Verity – The UK PCOS Charity: A leading UK charity providing information and support for women with PCOS. They offer a private Facebook group for peer support and resources on managing symptoms, including hair loss