Hair Care & Hair Loss Treatment Guide | HerHealth Pharmacy

Trichology

Prescription Hair Care

Evidence-based treatments for hair loss and thinning. Clinically proven solutions to slow hair loss and promote regrowth.

40%

of women experience
visible hair loss by age 50

6.5M

Canadians affected
by hair loss conditions

66%

of women with FPHL
respond to treatment

Understanding Hair Loss in Women

Hair loss affects more women than you might think. Here’s what science tells us.

Female Pattern Hair Loss (FPHL)

The most common type, affecting up to 40% of women by age 50. Presents as diffuse thinning across the crown and part line, unlike male-pattern baldness. Caused by genetic sensitivity to androgens and influenced by hormonal changes (menopause, PCOS, thyroid disorders).^[1]

Telogen Effluvium

Temporary but distressing diffuse shedding triggered by stress, pregnancy, surgery, illness, or medication changes. Hair prematurely enters the resting phase. Usually resolves within 6–9 months once the trigger is addressed. Nutritional support may accelerate recovery.

Hormonal Hair Loss

Conditions like PCOS, thyroid disorders, and menopause can trigger or worsen hair loss. Elevated androgens (PCOS) or declining estrogen (menopause) shift the hair growth cycle. Anti-androgen therapy with spironolactone is a key treatment approach.^[2]

The Hair Growth Cycle

Anagen (Growth)

2–7 years
Active growth phase
~85% of hair

Catagen (Transition)

2–3 weeks
Growth slows down
~2% of hair

Telogen (Resting)

3–4 months
Hair sheds naturally
~13% of hair

Exogen (New Growth)

Ongoing
Old hair falls, new begins
50–100 hairs/day normal

Treatment Options for Women

Treatment	How It Works	Expected Results	Time to See Results
Spironolactone (oral)	Blocks androgen receptors, reducing DHT’s effect on hair follicles	Slows hair loss, may promote regrowth in 50–66% of women	3–6 months
Minoxidil 2–5% (topical, OTC)	Increases blood flow to follicles, prolongs anagen phase	Moderate improvement in ~60% of women	4–6 months
Iron & ferritin supplementation	Corrects iron deficiency linked to telogen effluvium	Significant improvement if deficiency confirmed	3–6 months
Biotin & nutritional support	Supports keratin production and hair strength	Improved hair quality, limited evidence for regrowth	3–6 months
Low-level laser therapy	Stimulates cellular metabolism in follicles	Mild improvement in density	6–12 months

Important: Hair loss in women can indicate underlying conditions such as thyroid disorders, iron deficiency, PCOS, or autoimmune diseases. A thorough evaluation including blood work (TSH, ferritin, testosterone, DHEA-S) is recommended before starting treatment.^[1]

Our Hair Care Medications

Clinically proven treatments prescribed for your specific condition

Rx Only

Spironolactone 25–100mg

First-line anti-androgen for female pattern hair loss and hormonal hair thinning. Also effective for hormonal acne. Requires periodic potassium monitoring.

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Supplement

Prenatal Vitamins

Comprehensive vitamin complex with iron, biotin, and folic acid. Supports hair growth and prevents nutritional deficiency-related hair loss. Suitable for all women.

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Supplement

Vitamin D3 2000–4000 IU

Vitamin D deficiency is linked to hair loss. Supplementation recommended for Canadians, especially during winter months when sun exposure is limited.

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Supplement

CoQ10 (Ubiquinol) 200–600mg

Powerful antioxidant that supports cellular energy production. May improve hair follicle health by combating oxidative stress at the cellular level.

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Supplement

DHEA 25mg Capsules

Hormone precursor that may support hair growth in women with adrenal insufficiency or age-related DHEA decline. Use only under medical supervision.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How much hair loss is normal?

Losing 50–100 hairs per day is normal. If you’re consistently losing more, noticing widening of your part, increased scalp visibility, or thinning ponytail, it’s worth seeking evaluation. Take photos monthly to track changes objectively.

Can hair loss from menopause be reversed?

Partially. Menopausal hair loss is primarily driven by declining estrogen and relative androgen excess. Spironolactone can block androgen effects, and some women see improvement with topical minoxidil. HRT may also help stabilize hair loss when started near menopause onset.^[2]

Is spironolactone safe for long-term use for hair loss?

Yes, spironolactone has been used safely for decades. Common side effects include increased urination, breast tenderness, and irregular periods. Potassium levels should be monitored periodically. It is contraindicated in pregnancy due to anti-androgen effects.^[2]

What blood tests should I get for hair loss?

A comprehensive workup typically includes: CBC, ferritin (aim for >70 ng/mL), thyroid panel (TSH, free T4), vitamin D, zinc, testosterone, DHEA-S, and ANA if autoimmune conditions are suspected.

References & Sources

Piraccini BM, Alessandrini A. “Androgenetic Alopecia.” New England Journal of Medicine, 381(1), 2019.
Sinclair RD. “Female Pattern Hair Loss: Current Treatment Concepts.” Clinical Interventions in Aging, 2(3):391–402, 2007.
Grover C, Khurana A. “Telogen Effluvium.” Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology, 79(5):591–603, 2013.
Canadian Dermatology Association. “Hair Loss in Women: Diagnosis and Management.” 2022.

Medical Disclaimer

The information provided on this page is for general educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician, pharmacist, or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or medication. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.

All medications listed require a valid prescription from a licensed Canadian prescriber. HerHealth Pharmacy does not guarantee specific treatment outcomes. Individual results may vary based on health status, medical history, and other factors. Clinical data and statistics referenced are drawn from published research and may not reflect every patient’s experience.

HerHealth Pharmacy is a licensed Canadian pharmacy operating under the regulations of the relevant provincial college of pharmacy. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 or go to your nearest emergency department immediately.