PCOS hair loss treatment in Vancouver
Polycystic ovary syndrome can raise androgen levels — and in women whose follicles are sensitive to them, that means thinning on the top of the scalp, often starting in the 20s or 30s. Treating it well means treating the hormones and the scalp together.
- 8 years of hair care
- Thousands of patients treated
- Hormone-focused bloodwork
Androgens and the hair follicle
In PCOS, the body may produce more androgens such as testosterone. Inside the follicle, testosterone can be converted to DHT, which gradually shrinks sensitive follicles. The result is usually diffuse thinning along the part and crown — the female pattern — sometimes with acne or extra facial or body hair.
Insulin resistance, weight changes, iron levels and thyroid function often play a part too, which is why a full workup is important.
What we check for PCOS-related hair loss
Many women with PCOS are told their hair loss is "just hormones". We look at exactly which factors are involved so treatment can be targeted.
- Androgen and other hormone markers in your bloodwork
- Metabolic markers such as blood sugar
- Iron stores, thyroid and vitamin levels
- Trichoscopy signs of miniaturization
- Medications, including birth control, and your plans for pregnancy
60 minutes with a doctor
One of the most comprehensive hair analyses in Metro Vancouver — performed and led by a medical doctor, one-on-one and in private. $250 + GST.
- Medical history. Your health, family history, medications and what you've already tried.
- Live HD trichoscopy. A magnified, on-screen look at your scalp and follicles.
- Detailed scalp examination. Inflammation, oil, irritation and overall scalp health.
- Blood test of over 40 biomarkers. Hormones, thyroid, iron, nutrition and more.
- Your recommendations and plan. Shampoo, medical therapy, natural DHT-blocker options and in-clinic treatments — plus a detailed report with your images.
Treating PCOS hair loss
Plans usually combine in-clinic treatment for the scalp with medical therapy that reduces the effect of androgens on the follicle. Some medications must not be used in pregnancy, so your plans are part of the conversation.
If you already see a family doctor, gynaecologist or endocrinologist for PCOS, your hair plan works alongside that care.
What to expect
Androgen-driven thinning responds slowly, so consistency matters. Most patients notice less shedding first, then better density from around months 3–4, with the main results by 6–12 months.
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Every plan is overseen by Dr. Eli Akbari
Dr. Eli Akbari, MD, FRCSC is a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon (RCPSC and AAFPRS) trained at the University of British Columbia and the University of Toronto. Our hair program has been established for the past 8 years, and we have treated thousands of patients across Metro Vancouver.
- A scientific, evidence-based approach — treatment chosen from your test results
- A detailed report with your scalp and trichoscopy images
- Rated 4.9 from 495 Google reviews
PCOS hair loss questions
Can PCOS hair loss be reversed?
Thinning from PCOS can often be slowed and density improved, especially when treatment starts early. Follicles that have been inactive for many years are harder to recover, which is why we recommend acting sooner.
Which blood tests matter for PCOS hair loss?
Androgens and other hormones, blood sugar markers, iron, thyroid and vitamins are all relevant. Our blood test covers over 40 biomarkers chosen by the doctor.
Is PRP effective for PCOS hair loss?
PRP is often part of plans for female pattern hair loss, including in PCOS, usually combined with medical therapy that addresses androgens.
Can I treat hair loss if I'm planning a pregnancy?
Yes, but some medications aren't safe before or during pregnancy. We'll build a plan around your plans.
How much is the assessment?
The hair analysis is $250 + GST and takes 60 minutes with a doctor. It's not free, and it includes a detailed report with images.
Find out what's causing your hair loss
One private hour with a doctor, a magnified look at your scalp, a 40+ biomarker blood test and a clear plan — with a detailed report and images after your visit.
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