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PCOS Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments

Worried about thinning hair and wondering what might be the cause? Learn how Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) causes hair loss, how to spot the signs early, and discover what treatments to reverse the condition.

Check My Symptoms
PCOS is a hormonal condition that affects women during their reproductive years. The common condition can present a range of symptoms, including acne, irregular menstrual cycles, excessive facial hair, and, in some cases, hair loss or thinning.

What Happens with PCOS Hair Loss?

PCOS-related hair loss is caused by hormonal imbalances, particularly elevated androgens, which can lead to gradual thinning of the hair on top of the scalp.

One of its lesser-known effects is hair thinning, which can be distressing and persistent. It typically presents as gradual hair loss across the top and crown of the scalp, a pattern known as female-pattern hair loss (FPB).

The main driver of the condition is excess testosterone, which converts into a more potent hormone called dihydrotestosterone (DHT). The DHT hormone binds to receptors in the hair follicles, causing them to shrink and produce finer, weaker hairs.

What Are the Symptoms of PCOS Hair Loss?

PCOS hair loss usually develops gradually and affects the top and crown of the scalp. Unlike patchy conditions like alopecia areata, the thinning is more even and widespread. The scalp often remains healthy in appearance, with no redness, scarring, or visible irritation. While the severity can vary from person to person, here are the most common signs of the issue:

Early Signs

  • Gradual thinning across the crown or top of the scalp
  • Hair looks finer and flatter than before
  • Increased shedding in the shower or on your pillow.

Progression (for some women)

  • Noticeable widening of the parting
  • Hair becomes harder to style or volumise
  • Reduced ponytail thickness
  • Some women also experience facial hair growth alongside scalp hair loss.

What’s Happening in the Body

  • PCOS leads to raised levels of androgens (male hormones) in the body
  • These hormones convert to DHT, which miniaturises hair follicles
  • Hair spends less time in the growth phase, causing earlier shedding
  • Insulin resistance and chronic inflammation further disrupt healthy follicle function.

Other Key Facts

  • 1 in 10 women of reproductive age can be affected by the condition
  • Hair thinning is often accompanied by acne, irregular periods, or weight gain
  • Hair loss is non-scarring, meaning regrowth is possible
  • Some women only notice hair loss after stopping hormonal contraception.

Commonly Reported Triggers

Several internal and external triggers can worsen PCOS-related shedding:

  • Elevated androgen levels (especially DHT)
  • Insulin resistance
  • Stress and sleep disturbance
  • Crash diets or nutrient-poor eating habits
  • Stopping hormonal contraception
  • Nutritional deficiencies (iron, vitamin D, zinc, B12).

What Can Help?

There is good news. PCOS hair loss is treatable. Depending on your symptoms and overall health, treatment might include:

  • Lifestyle and Nutritional Changes
  • Balanced, low-GI diet to improve insulin sensitivity
  • Regular exercise to reduce inflammation and support hormones
  • Ensure iron, vitamin D, zinc, and protein intake are sufficient.

Gentle Hair Care

  • Use sulphate-free, volumising shampoos
  • Avoid heat tools, tight styles, or harsh brushing
  • Consider scalp massage to stimulate blood flow

Emotional Support

  • Hair loss can affect confidence and mental well-being
  • Seek support from a trichologist or women’s health specialist

What to Expect?

Hair thinning from PCOS is gradual, but with consistent treatment, many women see improvement in:

  • Hair volume and thickness
  • Reduced shedding
  • Confidence and scalp health.

Initial regrowth may begin within 3 to 6 months, with full recovery expected in 9 to 12 months.

When to Seek Help

Seek professional help if:

  • You notice hair thinning or excessive shedding
  • Hair changes are affecting your well-being
  • You’re unsure if your symptoms are caused by PCOS.

Early intervention gives you the best chance of regrowth and long-term improvement. You don’t have to face PCOS hair loss alone. With the proper care and support, healthy hair is within reach.

 

“Hair loss is one of the most emotionally difficult symptoms of PCOS, but it’s also one of the most treatable. With the right combination of medical support, lifestyle changes, and hair-specific care, we see many women successfully slow down shedding and achieve noticeable regrowth.”

Gary Heron, Chief Trichologist

Frequently Asked Questions About PCOS and Hair Loss

Can PCOS really cause hair loss?
Yes, PCOS is a common cause of hair thinning in women. It leads to higher levels of androgens (male-type hormones), such as testosterone, which can shrink hair follicles and shorten the growth phase of the hair cycle. The condition often results in gradual thinning over the crown and parting.
What does PCOS-related hair loss look like?
The most common pattern is thinning across the top of the scalp. You might notice your parting becoming wider, a drop in volume, or a thinner ponytail. Unlike patchy conditions such as alopecia areata, PCOS hair loss is more diffuse and gradual.
Is this type of hair loss permanent?
No, the good news is that PCOS-related hair loss is usually non-scarring, meaning the hair follicles are still alive and capable of regrowth. With proper treatment, many women can expect to see their hair improve over time.
How long will it take to see results?
Hair growth is slow, so it often takes 3 to 6 months to notice a reduction in shedding or early regrowth. More visible improvements in thickness and density may take 9 to 12 months or longer, depending on your treatment approach and hormonal balance.
Can anything help speed up regrowth?

Yes. While there’s no overnight fix, combining the right treatments makes a difference:

  • Topical products like minoxidil
  • Natural treatments
  • Managing insulin resistance through diet and exercise
Will weight loss help my hair?
In women with PCOS and insulin resistance, modest weight loss can improve hormone balance and potentially reduce hair shedding. But crash diets or restrictive eating can actually make hair loss worse. A slow, steady, and nutrient-rich approach is best.
What’s the best shampoo for PCOS hair loss?
Choose a gentle, sulphate-free shampoo that doesn’t strip the scalp. Volumising or caffeine-based shampoos may help improve scalp circulation. Avoid anything too heavy, fragranced, or drying.
I’m losing hair but also growing it in unwanted places, is that normal?
Yes, it’s unfortunately common in PCOS. High androgen levels can cause scalp hair to thin while stimulating excess hair growth on the face, chest, or abdomen. This imbalance can feel frustrating, but treatments like anti-androgens can help address both concerns.
Should I stop brushing or washing my hair?
No, brushing and washing don’t cause hair loss, but they can make natural shedding more visible. Be gentle when handling your hair, and avoid tight styles, heavy heat tools, or chemical treatments while your hair is vulnerable.
When should I see someone?
If your hair thinning is worsening, lasting longer than six months, or affecting your confidence, it’s time to speak to a trichologist or GP. Early action gives you the best chance of recovery.

Our Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) Treatments

The Hair Loss Centre’s trichologically formulated treatments and lotions fight the hormone response. It is best to treat the condition as soon as it is diagnosed. Let us help you. Book a free video consultation.

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