Hair Loss

Hair loss and emotional wellbeing

Experiencing hair loss can be very distressing for both men and women, particularly if it occurs at a younger age. Head hair is one of our most visible features, and changes to hair thickness or coverage can affect self-esteem and how we feel about ourselves.

While there is no single solution for everyone, there are medical and cosmetic options that may help manage hair loss or support scalp and hair health under the guidance of a qualified health professional.

Hair loss in men

For men, the most common cause of hair loss is male pattern hair loss (also known as androgenetic alopecia). This condition is often inherited and is estimated to affect a large proportion of men over the age of 40.

In male pattern hair loss, certain hormones can influence the hair growth cycle, leading to a gradual thinning of hair over time. Normally, each hair grows for several years before shedding and being replaced. In those with male pattern hair loss, this cycle can become shorter and the new hairs may grow back finer and less visible.

Your GP, dermatologist or hair specialist can assess the pattern of loss and discuss suitable management options with you.

Hair loss in women

Hair thinning in women, sometimes referred to as female pattern hair loss or female androgenetic alopecia, is less common but still occurs and can be particularly upsetting. As with men, there can be a genetic component and hormonal factors may also play a role.

In some women, hair loss or thinning may be associated with underlying conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or other hormonal imbalances. It’s important to discuss hair changes with your doctor, who can investigate possible causes and rule out conditions that need specific medical management before starting any hair loss treatment.

Other possible causes of hair loss

Hair loss or thinning can also occur in both men and women due to factors such as:

• alopecia areata
• other autoimmune conditions
• radiation therapy
• various hormonal conditions
• significant physical or emotional stress

Because there are many potential causes, professional assessment is essential before deciding on a management plan.

Treatments for hair loss

There are a range of medical and cosmetic approaches that may be considered in the management of hair loss, depending on the cause, pattern and severity. These might include:

• oral medicines prescribed by a doctor
• topical treatments applied to the scalp
• cosmetic approaches such as hair fibres, styling techniques or hairpieces
• nutritional and lifestyle support where relevant

Some prescribed treatments focus on influencing hormonal pathways that affect hair growth. Others are applied directly to the scalp to help support hair follicles and scalp health. Your doctor or dermatologist will advise which options, if any, are suitable for you, and what kind of results you can realistically expect.

How National Custom Compounding may help

In some cases, your prescriber may choose to involve a compounding pharmacy as part of your hair loss management plan.

At National Custom Compounding, our pharmacists can prepare customised formulations of prescribed hair loss medicines and topical preparations when directed by your doctor or specialist. This may be helpful when:

• a specific strength is needed that isn’t available in a standard product
• a particular combination of prescribed ingredients is requested
• an alternative base or dosage form is preferred (for example, a different type of topical preparation)

All compounded hair loss medicines are prescription-only and can only be supplied on receipt of a valid script from a registered health professional.

For general information about our compounding services for hair loss, please contact us or speak with your GP, dermatologist or hair loss specialist about whether compounded options may be appropriate for you.