Female-pattern hair loss: therapeutic update

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Trichology

Background:

• Female androgenetic alopecia (FPHL) significantly impacts quality of life.
• Current FPHL treatments often lack robust evidence and patient satisfaction.

Purpose of the Study:

• To critically review clinical and surgical treatment alternatives for FPHL.
• To present camouflage strategies for extensive or treatment-resistant FPHL cases.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of existing therapeutic options for FPHL.
• Discussion of evidence levels for various treatments.
• Exploration of adjunctive camouflage techniques.

Main Results:

• Topical minoxidil remains the first-line treatment with high evidence but is ineffective for approximately 40% of patients.
• Limited understanding of FPHL pathogenesis hinders innovative therapy development.
• A need exists for more rigorous, longitudinal studies on FPHL treatments.

Conclusions:

• FPHL management requires a comprehensive approach, considering available evidence and patient expectations.
• Camouflage methods offer valuable options for managing FPHL.
• Further research is crucial to advance FPHL therapeutic strategies.