Hair Loss in Women: Diagnosis and Medical Solutions

Dr. Sheena Cherry
Internal Medicine Specialist
Hair Loss in Women: Diagnosis and Medical Solutions
Many women in Dubai experience hair thinning or excessive shedding. While occasional hair fall is normal, persistent loss signals an underlying cause. As a specialist treating patients across the UAE, I’ve seen how early diagnosis and medical care can reverse the damage.
This blog provides insight into the causes of hair loss in women, walks you through accurate diagnosis, and explains the most effective medical treatments available in Dubai. Whether you’re facing hormonal imbalance, stress-related hair fall, or patterned loss, understanding the root cause is the first step to regrowth.
Why Women Lose Hair: Common Causes
Hair loss affects women differently from men. It usually presents as diffuse thinning or widened part lines instead of bald patches. Here are the major causes:
Female Pattern Hair Loss (Androgenetic Alopecia)
One of the leading causes of hair loss in women, this condition results from a combination of genetics and hormonal sensitivity. It often begins with gradual thinning at the crown and progresses over time. Unlike male baldness, women rarely experience complete baldness.
Hormonal & Systemic Factors
Several hormonal conditions contribute to hair loss. Thyroid disorders—both overactive and underactive—can interrupt the hair growth cycle. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is another common cause in younger women, marked by increased androgen levels that shrink hair follicles.
Nutrient deficiencies are also influential. Low levels of iron, vitamin D, or B12 often correlate with chronic hair loss in women, especially when combined with fatigue or irregular periods.
Stress & Telogen Effluvium
Telogen effluvium causes sudden, widespread shedding after physical or emotional stress, illness, surgery, or childbirth. The stress triggers more hair to shift into the resting phase, resulting in heavy fall two to three months later. Although it usually resolves, persistent shedding may need clinical support.
Other Medical Conditions
Autoimmune conditions such as alopecia areata cause patchy baldness. Scalp infections, diabetes, and lupus also impair follicle function. Each condition requires tailored evaluation to determine the best hair loss treatment for women in Dubai.
Step-by-Step Diagnosis For Hair Loss in Women
Treating hair loss in women starts with a precise diagnosis. A comprehensive assessment helps identify the cause and create a successful plan.
Medical History & Physical Examination
The diagnostic journey begins with an in-depth discussion. Patients are asked about family history, stress levels, recent illnesses, menstrual cycles, and diet. A physical examination of the scalp may include a pull test and visual inspection to assess for patterns of thinning or inflammation.
Diagnostic Tools & Tests
Blood tests are crucial. Doctors evaluate thyroid hormones, ferritin, vitamin D, testosterone, and DHEAS levels. Low readings often indicate reversible causes.
In-clinic trichoscopy allows doctors to examine hair shafts and follicles with a dermatoscope. This non-invasive method helps distinguish between types of hair loss. Doctors sometimes perform a scalp biopsy if they suspect inflammation or scarring.
Dubai-Specific Note
Clinics in Dubai now use advanced technology for assessment. Digital trichoscopy, laser scalp scanning, and robotic follicle mapping are available at top facilities offering hair loss treatment in Dubai.
Medical Treatment Options
Once the cause is established, doctors customize a plan based on individual needs. Several evidence-based hair loss treatments for women are now available locally.
Topical Medications
Minoxidil remains the most trusted topical agent. It improves blood flow to hair follicles and prolongs the growth phase. Available in 2% and 5% formulations, minoxidil must be applied daily. Visible improvement is typically seen after three to six months of continuous use.
Oral Medications
When topical therapy isn’t enough, oral medications can be added. Spironolactone and finasteride are commonly prescribed in low doses to block androgens that shrink follicles. While these drugs are used off-label, they have proven effective in women with PCOS or hormonal hair loss.
In selected cases, oral minoxidil is prescribed in micro-doses. It offers systemic benefits, especially when topical application irritates.
Biologic & Adjunct Therapies
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) is gaining popularity in Dubai for hair fall treatment in Dubai. This treatment involves injecting a patient’s growth factors into the scalp to stimulate follicles. A typical protocol consists of three to six sessions conducted over several months.
Low-level laser therapy (LLLT), delivered via helmets or laser combs, is also available. It boosts cellular activity and thickens miniaturized hairs. Many Dubai clinics now offer both PRP and LLLT under one roof.
Additionally, stem cell therapy and mesotherapy (cocktails of nutrients and peptides) are gaining attention as non-invasive regenerative options.
Surgical Approaches
When medical treatments don’t yield desired results, hair transplantation offers a lasting solution. Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE) and Direct Hair Implantation (DHI) are common in Dubai. These methods are minimally invasive and provide natural-looking density.
Some patients opt for scalp micropigmentation to camouflage thinning areas. While not a treatment, it can dramatically improve aesthetic appearance.
Lifestyle & Supportive Care
Supporting treatments with healthy habits improves outcomes and helps prevent further loss.
Nutritional & Lifestyle Interventions
A nutrient-rich diet supports hair growth. Foods high in iron, zinc, biotin, and omega-3 fatty acids are beneficial. Supplements may be prescribed if blood tests reveal deficiencies.
Stress reduction plays a key role. Meditation, yoga, and cognitive therapies have shown success in managing stress-related shedding.
Hair Care Best Practices
Avoiding tight hairstyles and excessive heat styling helps prevent breakage. Choose sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners that nourish the scalp. Using a soft brush and drying hair gently reduces physical stress on follicles.
Cosmetic Camouflage & Psychological Well-being
Hair loss affects self-image. Concealers, fibers, and medical wigs provide immediate results for women dealing with moderate to severe thinning. Seeking mental health support during this journey is equally important.
What to Expect: Timeline & Monitoring
Treatment timelines vary based on the underlying cause and chosen therapy. Topical minoxidil usually shows results after four months. PRP may require several sessions, with improvements becoming visible around three months. Hair transplants take six to twelve months for full density to return.
Regular follow-ups, progress photos, and dermoscopy evaluations help track success. Adjustments are made if progress slows or side effects occur.
When to See a Doctor in Dubai
Signs that require prompt evaluation include sudden, unexplained hair fall, visible scalp patches, and scalp discomfort. Women experiencing fatigue, hormonal irregularities, or recent weight changes should consult a specialist.
Choosing a dermatologist experienced in hair loss Dubai care ensures a thorough approach. Dubai clinics offer advanced diagnostics and internationally approved therapies tailored to each patient’s needs.
Final Thoughts
By identifying the specific cause—whether genetic, hormonal, or stress-related—and beginning targeted treatment early, most women can control or even reverse hair loss in women. Dubai offers advanced medical solutions like topical minoxidil, oral anti-androgens, PRP, LLLT, and hair transplants. Alongside these, a nutrient-rich diet, stress management, and gentle hair care support regrowth and prevent further damage. Regular monitoring ensures adjustments as needed. Although hair loss treatment for women requires patience and consistency, a customized, medically guided strategy can help you reclaim healthier, denser hair.
Frequently Asked Questions
Your Health, Clarified: Expert Answers from Internal Medicine Specialist Dr. Sheena Cherry
Losing 50–100 hairs daily is typical. Excessive shedding beyond this may indicate telogen effluvium or underlying disorders
FPHL begins with thinning at the part line, followed by widened part or overall scalp thinning. A dermatologist confirms via scalp exam and trichoscopy
Yes. Telogen effluvium begins 2–3 months after a significant stressor. It’s often temporary but needs treatment if ongoing
Yes—if treated early. Telogen effluvium often reverses on its own. FPHL and other causes may need medical therapy to control and regain some density
The gold standard is daily minoxidil, often paired with oral spironolactone or finasteride for hormonal FPHL. PRP and LLLT serve as excellent adjuncts
Biopsies are rare and used only when scarring alopecia or unusual conditions are suspected. Most diagnoses rely on medical history, scalp exam, and blood tests.
Consult one if you notice sudden shedding, patchy loss, scalp irritation, or if shedding persists beyond 6 months. Early care offers better results with hair loss treatment in Dubai.
Don’t Ignore the Signs – Take Control of Your Health Today! Today!
Latest Posts
- All Posts
- Diabetes Treatment
- Hair Loss Treatment
- Health Tips
- Hypertension
- Metabolic Disorders
- Thyroid Disorders
- Vitamin C Deficiency
- Vitamin Deficiency Treatment
- Weight Loss Treatment
Work Hours
- Mon-Fry 09:00-11:00
Take Control of Your Health Today – Schedule with Dubai’s Trusted Internal Medicine Expert