PCOS Hair Loss: Effective Natural Treatments for Thicker, Healthier Hair

Are you struggling with hair loss or hair thinning due to PCOS (polycystic ovarian syndrome)? Many women with PCOS experience this at some point. After trying many hacks and lifestyle changes, these are my top treatments that can help you overcome PCOS-related hair loss and promote hair growth. By following these tips, you can achieve thicker, longer hair and regain your confidence.

Understanding PCOS-Related Hair Loss

Hair loss is a common symptom experienced by women with PCOS. PCOS is a hormonal disorder characterized by imbalances in androgens, such as testosterone, which can have a significant impact on hair growth. Excess androgens can lead to a condition called androgenic alopecia, also known as female pattern hair loss.

Androgenic alopecia in women with PCOS is typically caused by the overproduction of androgens, which can affect the hair follicles, leading to decreased hair growth. Additionally, insulin resistance, which is commonly associated with PCOS, can contribute to hair loss by affecting the hair follicles’ ability to receive proper nutrients and oxygen.

Not all women with PCOS will experience hair loss and the severity of hair loss can vary. However, for those who do experience it, addressing the underlying hormonal imbalances and making certain lifestyle changes can significantly improve hair health and promote regrowth.

My Journey with PCOS Hair Loss

When my PCOS symptoms started, my thick hair started to get thin and brittle. At the time, I wasn’t taking good care of my hair or living a healthy lifestyle. There was a time where my hair would fall out in clumps in the shower (!!!) and it was so stressful. I couldn’t figure out how to fix it and felt hopeless.

Fast-forward through years of figuring out what worked and what didn’t, now I’ve learned how to be gentle with my hair and live a healthy life that helps reduce my PCOS symptoms. My hair is now the thickest and longest it’s ever been. Consistency is so important! Here are my top tips for how I treat my PCOS hair loss and promote hair growth.

How to Gently Wash Hair to Prevent Hair Loss

When it comes to caring for your hair, adopting a gentle approach is crucial, especially for those dealing with PCOS-related hair loss. Follow these tips to minimize damage and promote hair growth:

1. Limit hair washing and use a gentle hair towel to avoid breakage.
2. Use a shower cap on non-washing days to protect your hair.
3. Before washing your hair, perform an oil massage on your scalp using oils like argan oil to stimulate hair growth.
4. Be gentle with wet hair! Gently detangle with a wet brush, apply oil to the ends of your hair, and let it air dry when possible.

How to Style Hair to Minimize Hair Loss with PCOS

When styling your hair, there are several actions you can take to minimize hair loss.

1. Minimize heat styling! Heat styling can lead to damage and contribute to hair loss. Depending on your hair type, try wearing it in a clip or braid while wet to make it more manageable to style without heat.
2. Wear your hair down whenever possible to minimize breakage. If you want to wear your hair up, use a gentle silk hair tie or a clip.
3. Limit hair coloring treatments and opt for less damaging options, such as balayage or dyeing your hair darker. Always communicate with your stylist and let them know you want to avoid damage.
4. Trim your hair regularly to remove split ends and promote healthy hair growth.

How to Wear Hair at Night to Prevent Hair Loss

Proper nighttime haircare can make a significant difference in maintaining healthy hair and preventing hair loss. Avoid damaging your hair at night with these tips:

1. Minimize breakage during sleep by wearing your hair in special hair clip (see how I use this in my Youtube video) instead of a ponytail or bun.
2. Silk nightcaps are also a great way to wear your hair at night to avoid breakage. I love wearing mine when my hair is styled with curls — it helps extend the look for a couple of days.
3. Get yourself a silk pillowcase to protect your hair when you sleep! The texture allows you to avoid friction, thereby preventing additional breakage. Not only are they great for your hair, but they look luxe.
4. For a bonus hair growth boost before bedtime, try inversion hair massage a few times a week. Lie on your back with your head hanging off the bed and massage your scalp for 2-4 minutes. Boost the blood flow to your scalp and stimulate hair growth!

Top Lifestyle Changes for PCOS Hair Loss

Making positive lifestyle changes can have a significant impact on managing PCOS and related hair loss. Balancing hormones and improving insulin resistance can help with PCOS symptoms.

1. Avoid hormone-disrupting products, such as those containing fragrances, parabens, and phthalates, which can interfere with hormone balance and hair health. Try a shampoo and conditioner that follow those guidelines.
2. Follow an anti-inflammatory diet rich in plant-based foods, lean protein, healthy fats, and minimally-processed options.
3. Eat a diet low in sugar and choose low-glycemic options when possible, such as coconut sugar.
4. Engage in low-intensity exercises like walking, Pilates, and strength-training to manage stress and improve insulin resistance.

Supplements that Prevent Hair Loss with PCOS

Supplements can support you in balancing hormones and promoting hair growth with PCOS. Here are my favorite supplements to promote hair growth:

1. Saw palmetto is an anti-androgen and DHT inhibitor. It encourages hair growth on your head and reduced hair growth on your body
2. Baseline is a mix of amazing supplements, like myo-inositol and DIM, that support and regulate hormone balance
3. Vitamin D3 and K2 combo to improve vitamin D levels — a vitamin D deficiency has been linked to hair loss
4. Fish oil and Evening primrose oil are rich in omega fatty acids. Can help reduce inflammation and increase hair growth
5. Magnesium or Ashwagandha to relieve stress (stress leads to hair loss!) and sleep well
6. Spearmint tea is a natural anti-androgen, meaning it can naturally lower testosterone levels

Moving forward with PCOS Hair Loss

Dealing with PCOS-related hair loss can be challenging, but by implementing these natural treatments and lifestyle changes, you can promote hair growth and improve the overall health of your hair. For PCOS hair loss, I found that this combination of haircare and lifestyle guidelines really helped. Remember, consistency and patience are key.

For personalized advice, always consult with a healthcare professional.

You’re not alone on this PCOS journey! With the right approach, you can regain any lost confidence and enjoy thicker, healthier hair.