Tag Archive for: Aldactone

Introducing New SuperCapsule™ Spironolactone Formula

Young Woman in her late 30s experiencing hair loss and looking for a solution for women under 50.

Girls may run the world, according to Beyonce, but when it comes to hair loss medications, there isn’t much out there designed specifically for us. Minoxidil, Finasteride, and Dutasteride, the strongest prescription hair loss treatments available up until now, were all initially tested and marketed to men. The medications were later tested on women and deemed safe and effective. If you’re thinking it’s time that someone designed and sold a product specifically for women with genetic hair loss, you’re right. After all, female pattern baldness is the leading cause of hair loss among women, affecting up to 38 percent of all women. (01) That’s why we’re excited to introduce Happy Head’s new SuperCapsule™ Spironolactone Formula. 

The Strongest FDA-approved Prescription Hair Regrowth Ingredients for Women In a Single Daily Capsule

SuperCapsule Spironolactone combines Spironolactone with Minoxidil and Vitamin D3 into an easy-to-take capsule taken once daily. Each capsule contains 25 milligrams of Spironolactone, 1.25 milligrams of Minoxidil, and 2,000 units of Vitamin D3. 

Why Millions of Spironolactone Prescriptions are Filled Each Year

Spironolactone, sold under the brand name Aldactone, has been getting a lot of press lately as a treatment for stubborn hormonal acne that doesn’t respond to other prescription medications. The medication isn’t new, though. Spironolactone was initially tested and marketed to treat the fluid built-up that causes heart failure, liver scarring, and kidney disease. It has been around since 1955. In 1969, researchers noticed Spironolactone’s antiandrogenic effects. They discovered that Spironolactone works in two ways.  First, it’s a diuretic that helps your body excrete extra fluid. It’s also an anti-androgen that reduces the effects of testosterone in your body. The medication is especially effective in treating thinning and hair loss among women under 50. (02) 

Hormones & Hair Loss Treatments for Women

Let’s talk about how Spironolactone works to reduce shedding and regrow your hair. Female pattern baldness is an inherited genetic condition similar to male pattern baldness. Although men have higher amounts of testosterone than women, testosterone exists and functions similarly in both sexes. In both men and women who are genetically predisposed to lose their hair, testosterone converts to Dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT can attack and shrink your hair follicles. When that happens, the hair growth cycle is disrupted. Healthy new hair is replaced by thinner hair until the follicles eventually close off and hair stops growing. Spironolactone reduces total testosterone levels, so less testosterone is available to convert to DHT. It also blocks androgenetic receptors in the hair follicles. Yes, Spironolactone is capable of blocking testosterone in both men and women. However, Spironolactone can cause breast enlargement and other undesired antiandrogenic effects in men. 

Women's SuperCapsule formula by Happy Head. Formulated by board-certified dermatologists made with Spironolactone, Minoxidil, and Vitamin D3 for hair growth. The only women's hair growth formula that includes three high-performing ingredients in one. Made specifically for women experiencing hair loss under 50 years old.

Better Together: Spironolactone in Combination With Minoxidil & Vitamin D3

Now, about how Happy Head’s Spironolactone got its superpowers. Not only can Spironolactone be combined with other hair loss therapies, research indicates that Spironolactone has better efficacy when it’s combined with either oral or topical Minoxidil. (03) In this case, more is better. While Spironolactone blocks testosterone production, Minoxidil enlarges the hair follicles, allowing thicker, healthier hair to emerge. 

And then there’s Vitamin D. According to findings published by the National Library of Medicine, Vitamin D plays a significant role in hair growth. Studies indicate that there is a relationship between Vitamin D deficiency and androgenetic alopecia, which is another name for male and female pattern baldness. (04) The organization also estimates that over 40 percent of the population has a Vitamin D deficiency. Replacing this essential vitamin is key to supporting healthy hair growth. 

Spironolactone Balances Hormones That Cause Hair Loss

Spironolactone helps restore hormonal balance by blocking androgen receptors and reducing androgen production. Not only does the medication promote a more favorable environment for growth among women genetically predisposed to female pattern hair loss, it’s been found to be particularly beneficial for women with Polycystic Ovary System (PCOS). Hair loss among women with PCOS is common due to excess androgen production that’s characteristic of the condition. 

Spironolactone is Safe and Effective

Spironolactone is generally considered safe for hair loss treatment when used under medical supervision and at appropriate dosages. The higher the dosage of Spironolactone, the greater chance of side effects such as fatigue, dizziness, and breast tenderness. Side effects typically subside after the medication is discontinued. Although Spironolactone has a short half-life which means it clears your system quickly after discontinuing use, Spironolactone is not recommended to women who are pregnant or are planning to become pregnant. As with any prescription medication, always consult with a licensed healthcare professional before using any medical treatments or combination therapies for hair loss. 

Begin Seeing Results in 3 to 6 Months

Within three to six months, you may see signs of growth. At that point, however, it’s still early in the process. Studies indicate that the best results are seen after a year of continual use. 

Want to Regrow your Hair?

Want to find out if SuperCapsule Spironolactone, Minoxidil, and Vitamin D3 formula will work for you? Happy Head has dermatologists licensed in every state available to review your medical history and provide a no-cost consultation. If you’re a good candidate, your prescription will be created and shipped directly to your front door. Have questions after you receive your order? We’re always here to help with ongoing support. Simply contact us and start your online quiz and tell us about your hair to get started. 

 

Resources:

(01) www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

(02) Note: Spironolactone is not recommended for women who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. Always consult with a licensed medical professional before considering any medical treatments or combination therapies for hair loss.

(03) www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

(04) https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

 

Can Female Pattern Hair Loss be Reversed?

Woman looking at her hair closely trying to figure out how much hair she's lost. She's wondering if her female pattern hair loss can be reversed. Happy Head's board-certified dermatologists can help with custom topical hair growth treatments, oral medications, and more.

Women have a reputation for being fixers. When something goes wrong, the first thing we want to do is fix it.  So it’s not surprising that when we lose our hair, we want to take action and figure out if there’s anything we can do to make it grow back.  Fortunately, female pattern hair loss can be reversed with treatment. It doesn’t happen overnight, but women start to see improvement within six months to a year. If you have questions about what products are most effective and if there are any side effects, you’ve come to the right place. Here’s everything you need to know.

Female Pattern Hair Loss Is Common

Female pattern hair loss, also called androgenetic alopecia, is the most common type of alopecia among women. Over 21 million women in the United States experience hair loss due to the condition. Besides normal recession that happens to most people as they age, the front of the hairline isn’t usually affected. There is a very distinct, recognizable pattern, though. The process usually starts with a widening of the center hair part and thins on the top and crown of the scalp, making a Christmas tree pattern. Women usually don’t become near or totally bald the way men do.  

Too Much DHT Causes Hair Loss

The exact cause of female pattern hair loss isn’t completely understood. Experts believe that there are genetic and hormonal connections.  If one of your parents or grandparents lost their hair due to androgenetic alopecia, there’s a chance that you may too.  

Happy Head's women's formula using a combination of compounded ingredients including Spironolactone and Minoxidil. This treatment is made to order and customized to you.

What we do know is that an androgen called Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) is to blame. Just as men have small amounts of estrogen, women have small amounts of Testosterone. Hair loss begins when some or a lot of that Testosterone is converted to DHT. DHT interrupts your hair’s growth cycle. The androgen miniaturizes the hair follicles, which means that the hair follicles shrink.  Existing hair in miniaturized follicles thins or falls out. New hair can’t break through. Fortunately, Happy Head’s board-certified dermatologists have a topical treatment specifically made for women that helps curb hair loss and boost regrowth with our custom Topical Spironolactone. 

Myths About Female Pattern Hair Loss

Many myths about what causes female pattern hair loss exist. Let’s discuss three common topics that women often blame for their hair loss:

  •  Vitamin Deficiencies 

Vitamin deficiencies, especially iron and Vitamin D, are linked to hair loss. However, they don’t cause androgenetic alopecia.  Vitamin deficiencies cause a temporary condition called telogen effluvium. Once the deficiency is identified and treated, hair loss typically stops and new hair grows. 

  • Birth Control Pills 

Research indicates that during initial use of oral contraceptives, women may experience more shedding than usual. However, after a few months, the hair grows back on its own. (01)  The same is true when women who are stable when taking oral contraceptives go off of the medication.  

  • Antidepressants

There is a lot of talk in various Facebook and support groups about whether antidepressants are the root of women’s hair loss. If you think that your antidepressants are causing an issue, it’s important not to change your dosage or stop taking your medication without first consulting with your doctor. Yes, it’s true that some antidepressants can cause medicine-induced alopecia, although it’s rare. The type of alopecia induced is typically a temporary form of telogen effluvium. However, if hair loss due to antidepressants concern, be sure to consult with your dermatologist. Effective hair loss medications can often be used in conjunction with antidepressants.  

There’s No Age Limit 

Women of all ages can experience female pattern hair loss. Although most women start to notice their hair thinning in midlife, meaning ages 40 through 60, hair loss due to androgenetic alopecia can start any time after puberty.  

Patterns of Hair Loss Are the Key to Diagnosis

There isn’t one specific test that dermatologists use to determine whether or not you have female pattern hair loss.  Dermatologists can typically make a diagnosis based on a visual evaluation since androgenetic alopecia has such specific patterns in women. Other information that he or she will use includes:

  • Medical history
  • Blood tests to check vitamin levels
  • Pull test to see if strands fall out easily
  • Visual inspection of hair follicles to check for miniaturization

Your dermatologist may also do a biopsy to rule out other forms of alopecia.

Treatments for Female Pattern Hair Loss

If you are diagnosed with female pattern hair loss, medications are available and have been proven to be effective.  One is over-the-counter, and the others are only available by prescription.  

  • Minoxidil (Rogaine)– Available over-the-counter in two and five-percent foams. Although the five percent is designated for men, women often use the five percent formula. Stronger liquid formulas are available by prescription. Oral pills are also available, but carry a very small risk of hirsutism.  
  • Finasteride (Proscar, Propecia)– A DHT blocker FDA approved for men, prescribed off-label for women. An effective topical formula is also available.  
  • Dutasteride (Avodart) – Another DHT blocker that is prescribed as a second-line of treatment after Finasteride.  Dutasteride blocks two enzymes, while Finasteride blocks one.  Finasteride is effective for most women, so Dutasteride isn’t prescribed as often.
  • Spironolactone (Aldactone) – A DHT blocker that is prescribed when women’s treatment has plateaued using other treatments.  

Potential Side Effects from Hair Loss Medications

Potential side effects of taking oral hair loss medications are different for women than for men. Minoxidil can cause a temporary, initial shedding among some women because it speeds up the resting phase of your hair.  This makes your hair fall out faster than normal when you first start using the medication. Minoxidil also makes the growth phase last longer. If you use Minoxidil and experience irritation, you may want to test a formula without propylene glycol. Research indicates that the culprit is often the propylene glycol, not the Minoxidil. (02)

Finasteride, Dutasteride, and Spironolactone are not typically prescribed for women of child-bearing ages. Aside from that, side effects are usually rare and mild, if present at all. If you are concerned about side effects, or interactions with other medications you are taking, topical hair loss treatments may be a better option for you. Topicals are proven to work as effectively as oral medications without the same risk of side effects since topicals are not systemic. (03) You can also combine topical treatments with oral treatments.  

Treatment for Female Pattern Hair Loss Isn’t One-size-fits-all

Treating female pattern hair loss may take some experimenting. Different treatments are effective for different women. Whereas five percent topical Minoxidil may work for some, others may need ten percent. The same is true for Finasteride and the other DHT blockers. Also, remember that combinations of medications with different objectives are often used. For example, Minoxidil and Finasteride are often used at the same time. Retinoids are also often used to enhance the absorption of other medications.

If you have female pattern hair loss and would like more information on treatment options, we’re here to help. Our board-certified dermatologists are happy to review your case and recommend the hair loss medication that would be best for you. Best of all, our prescription medications can be customized and will be delivered directly to your front door.

 

Resources:

(01) https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/4736624/

(02) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2684510/

(03) https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/jocd.14895?af=R

 

 

When Women Get Male Pattern Hair Loss

Women can also suffer from hair loss, but there's help online to get a dermatologist diagnosis and formulation that works for you. Happy Head's dermatologists understand how female pattern hair loss works and how to help you regrow your hair.
Female pattern hair loss can progress from a widening part to overall thinning. But what happens when women get male pattern hair loss?

I met my friend Barbara (01) twelve years ago when our boys were toddlers. Barbara is a tiny woman with lots of spunk. I always thought of her as strong, smart, and confident. She called one day and confided in me that it bothered her that her hair was thinning. She had been losing hair on the crown of her head since she was in her late 20s, and she never did anything about it. She knew that I had lichen planopilaris and wanted to get the name of the dermatologist I used to treat my hair loss.  

Anyone knew just from looking at Barbara that her hair was sparse, and it took me by surprise that she hadn’t already had it checked out by a dermatologist or a hair specialist. But then again, Barbara isn’t exactly a fashionista.  She’s an elder care nurse who spends most of her weekdays in scrubs and her weekends in sweats. But still, I was surprised. Barbara visited my dermatologist, and it turns out that she has androgenic alopecia, also known as male pattern baldness. Who knew that women can get male pattern baldness? And who knew that it could start so young?

How Do Women Get Male Pattern Baldness?

Women get male pattern baldness for the same reasons men do. Also known as androgenic alopecia, female pattern hair loss is usually inherited. The condition occurs when a woman has a shorter than normal period of hair growth and a longer than normal period between when her hair sheds and grows. In some cases, women have the misfortune of inheriting smaller hair follicles and thinner strands of hair.  

Almost every woman experiences female pattern hair loss at some point in her life. Most first notice androgenic alopecia around menopause, but it can start any time after puberty begins. If anyone on either side of your family has lost his or her hair, it’s more likely that you will too. 

What Does Female Pattern Baldness Look Like?

There’s some good news if you have female pattern baldness. Women’s hairlines usually don’t recede and you won’t end up with a donut. The other good news is that women typically don’t go completely bald. Usually women with androgenic alopecia have one of three different patterns of hair loss. A bald spot can form at the crown of your head, you could lose hair along your center part, or your hair could thin all over. In some cases, hair gets so thin that the scalp can be seen.

How to Identify Male Pattern Baldness in Women

Although it’s tempting, don’t try to self-diagnose or treat yourself if you think you have androgenic alopecia. Get an appointment with a board-certified dermatologist and hair specialist. Your dermatologist may do one or several of the following:

  • Evaluate your hair loss pattern
  • Review your medical history
  • Rule out other possible causes for your hair loss, such as iron or vitamin D deficiency, thyroid disease, or another type of scarring alopecia
  • Determine whether you are producing too much androgen (male hormone)
  • Use a dermoscope or a microscope to look at the structure of your hair shaft
  • Take a small biopsy of your scalp and send it to a pathologist

Androgenic Alopecia Often Goes Undiagnosed in African American Women

Women of every race are affected by androgenic alopecia and other types of hair loss. African American women are no exception. In a 2016 survey conducted at Boston University’s Sloane Epidemiology Center, 47.6 percent of African-American women surveyed reported hair loss. (02)   

However, like my friend Barbara who noticed that her hair was thinning and didn’t do anything about it, many African-American women are not seeking treatment for androgenic alopecia. Out of the group surveyed, 81.4 percent reported that they had never consulted with a physician about their thinning hair or bald spots.

The moral of this story? If you think that your hair is thinning and have a history of hair loss on either your Mother’s or Father’s side of the family, don’t ignore it. Make an appointment with your dermatologist to get evaluated and treated. 

Do Asian Women get Alopecia?

Asian women do get alopecia, but traditionally rates have been lower than those of Caucasian or African-American women. (03) That number seems to be on the rise, though. Diet is believed to be a contributing factor.   

Early research indicates that diets rich in vegetables, herbs, and soy may contribute to hair growth and health thanks to their anti-inflammatory nutrients. (04) The traditional Asian diet, loaded with fish and vegetables, meets that criteria.  

Today’s modern Asian diet looks more like a typical American diet though, filled with processed foods. The fat, salt, and empty calories lead to higher BMI and blood sugar levels that have been linked to female pattern hair loss. (05)

 

Topical treatment by Happy Head, being piped out of the glass pipette. Each topical treatment is customized to your patient profile.

What Treatments are Available to Women with Female Pattern Baldness?

Treatments for androgenic alopecia are designed with two goals in mind:

  1. Prevent further hair loss
  2. Stimulate hair growth

Sounds logical, right? Well, it is. Here are medications that dermatologists typically prescribe:

Retinol (Tretinoin)

Retinol is derived from Vitamin A and has been found to be effective for treating female pattern hair loss when used either alone or in combination with Minoxidil. (06) Retinol has been proven to stimulate growth and improve the absorption of other ingredients that promote hair growth.

Minoxidil (Rogaine)

Minoxidil, sold over-the-counter under the name Rogaine, is a hair regrowth treatment. It works by enlarging the hair follicles and elongating your hair’s growth phase. Minoxidil is available in both a topical foam and a pill. Although the foam is available in a two percent formula for women and a five percent formula for men, dermatologists often recommend the five percent for women to use for androgenic alopecia. Any hair growth realized while using Minoxidil can be lost if you stop using the product, so it is highly recommended to use it under the care of a licensed dermatologist.

Finasteride (Propecia)

Finasteride is a prescription medication that was initially designed to treat enlarged prostates. Because it prevents testosterone from converting into dihydrotestosterone (DHT), the medicine is helpful for women with female pattern hair loss. (07)  Finasteride is available as an oral medication and as a topical solution. Many women prefer topical to avoid potential side effects.

Dutasteride (Avodart)

Dutasteride is similar to Finasteride. Both medications prevent your body from converting testosterone into DHT, which causes female pattern baldness. Dutasteride is newer to the market and is used off-label for androgenic alopecia in women. Finasteride is highly effective for most women, but when stronger medications are required, Dutasteride is a good option. (08) Like Finasteride, Dutasteride is best for women who are not pregnant or thinking about becoming pregnant.   

Spironolactone (Aldactone)

Spironolactone is an effective treatment for hormone-induced hair loss that is only prescribed to women. The medication blocks DHT production by simultaneously decreasing testosterone and increasing estrogen.

Data indicates that Spironolactone is highly effective for treating female pattern baldness. In a research study conducted, 74.3 percent of patients who were treated with Spironolactone reported stabilization or improvement in their hair loss. (09)  

Oral Spironolactone can cause low blood pressure, drowsiness, and other side effects. Topical Spironolactone, which does not go through the digestive system and is less likely to induce side effects, is often prescribed and preferred. Topical Spironolactone is often compounded with Minoxidil to help your hair grow even faster and thicker.   

Compounded Topical Treatments

If you’re not thrilled about using multiple products, all-in-one topical treatments that combine multiple medications into one are now available and can be more effective than using just one medication alone. (10)  Popular combinations are:

  • Finasteride, Minoxidil, and Retinol
  • Minoxidil and Spironolactone

Many women appreciate the convenience and ease of applying just one formula twice a day.  

With So Many Medications Available to Women With Androgenic Alopecia, How Do You Choose?

Are you confused about all of the different options? If so, that’s understandable since some of the DHT blocking medications work similarly. Thankfully, dermatologists have experience selecting the right medications for patients with female pattern hair loss. Your dermatologist will help you choose the right medication, dosage, and combination of medication based on the severity of your hair loss and your medical history.  

Remember that treatment for female pattern hair loss isn’t one-size-fits-all. Different medications work for different women. It’s common to go through a trial process to see what works best for you.  

Also, keep in mind that patience is key when treating androgenic alopecia. Medications work over time, so it may be a few months before you see a noticeable improvement, no matter which treatment you and your dermatologist choose.

Women With Androgenic Alopecia Often Need a Support System

Every woman deals with androgenic alopecia differently. My friend Barbara took her diagnosis in stride, but many women are devastated. Hair is a huge part of a woman’s identity, and losing it can take a toll on a woman’s confidence.  

If you’re having trouble coping with your hair loss, resources are available to you. Best of all, some of the resources are free. Facebook has a closed group dedicated to females with androgenic alopecia. Members share information about their diagnosis and treatment plans. Sometimes, they’re just there to tell each other that it’s okay to be sad about their hair loss. Whether it’s on Facebook, another social media outlet, or in person, support groups are a good way to connect with others who are feeling the same way as you about your hair loss situation.  

If you’re not in a good place mentally, make sure you contact a qualified psychologist or a psychiatrist. Depression and anxiety are common among women with female pattern hair loss. It’s important to seek help so you can regain your sense of self.


Resources:

(01) Name has been changed to protect confidentiality

(02) https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2016/03/160304093239.htm

(03) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4560543/

(04) https://www.karger.com/Article/Fulltext/504786

(05) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4560543/

(06) https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/3771854/

(07) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7060023/

(08) https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25382509/

(09) https://www.jaad.org/article/S0190-9622(15)01878-2/fulltext

(10) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4314881/