Estrogens’ role in Hair Loss


Estrogen’s role in human hair growth is not certain, the follicle itself has different receptor sites for estrogen, alpha and beta.

The beta-receptor site is more common than the alpha and generally speaking, is the one responsible for the suppression of cellular functions in the human hair follicle.

In vitro studies have been inconclusive and the demonstrate that estrogens may perhaps have the opposite effect in the male scalp where it appears to produce stimulation in contrast with the female scalp where it’s effect has been to reduce hair elongation.

The androgen precursor may be converted into estrogen within the human hair follicle when coupled with aromatase and 17-hydroxy steroid dehydrogenase and the estrogen may also regulate the amount of DHT present by controlling the functioning of the 5-alpha reductase enzyme.

Researches have postulated that low levels of estrogens to androgens ratio may provide conditions more favourable to the development of FMPB in individuals who are genetically susceptible, clinical studies testing the efficacy of topical estrogens for hair loss treatment have produced debatable results.

Low-level Infrared Laser Treatment

Laser light hair loss therapies utilize infra-red spectrum wavelengths in the range of 600 to 1,400mm

Clinical results suggest that infrared light exposure may stimulate the hair follicle and effectually improve hair growth but the mechanics of the process is yet to be established.

The effects of treatment may be attributed to the absorption of therapeutic light frequencies by epithelial cells at the follicle site and then utilized by the cellular respiratory mechanism.

By in large most laser light therapy, hair loss therapies are designed for men, but recently there has been the development of Specialized laser hair therapy treatments for women and are available in Ontario, Canada.