PCOS hair refers to the specific patterns of hair growth (or loss) often experienced by women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), driven by hormonal imbalances. Specifically, it is characterised by excessive hair growth in androgen-sensitive areas and hair loss on the scalp.
Understanding PCOS and Hair Changes
PCOS is a hormonal disorder that affects women of reproductive age. One of the key features of PCOS is an overproduction of androgens (male hormones) by the ovaries and sometimes the adrenal glands. This hormonal imbalance is the primary driver behind the characteristic hair changes associated with PCOS.
Hirsutism: Excessive Hair Growth
Hirsutism is the term for the growth of long, coarse, and often dark hairs in areas where women typically don't have much hair, such as:
- Face (chin, upper lip)
- Chest
- Back
- Abdomen
- Thighs
This is a direct result of the excess androgens circulating in the blood, which stimulate hair follicles in these areas.
Androgenic Alopecia: Hair Loss
Conversely, excess androgens can also cause hair loss on the scalp, a condition known as androgenic alopecia or male-pattern baldness. This happens because androgens can cause hairs in the scalp to stop growing, leading to thinning hair, a receding hairline, or bald spots.
Summary of PCOS Hair Characteristics:
| Feature | Description | Cause |
|---|---|---|
| Hirsutism | Excessive growth of coarse, dark hair in androgen-sensitive areas. | Overproduction of androgens stimulating hair follicles |
| Androgenic Alopecia | Thinning hair or hair loss on the scalp, resembling male-pattern baldness. | Androgens causing hair follicles to shrink |
