Female Pattern Hair Loss
Female Pattern Hair Loss Adelaide
Female Pattern Hair Loss is a chronic condition caused by the gradual miniaturisation of hair follicles, where terminal (thick) hairs are progressively replaced by vellus (fine) hairs. The process involves:
Miniaturisation: Hair follicles shrink over successive growth cycles, producing shorter, thinner, and less pigmented hair.
Diffuse Thinning: This miniaturisation occurs across the top and crown of the scalp, leading to a visible reduction in overall hair volume.
Extended Latency: Affected follicles spend longer periods in the resting (telogen) phase and shorter periods in the active growth (anagen) phase.
Specialised clinical treatments for Female Pattern Hair Loss are aimed at stimulating these miniaturising follicles to slow the process and promote objective regrowth of thicker, healthier hair.
Treatment for Female Pattern Hair Loss (FPHL) is classified as a higher risk non-surgical cosmetic procedure when it involves clinical treatments such as scalp needling at medical depths or the use of specialised energy-based devices (e.g., medical-grade Low-Level Laser Therapy). This treatment is not medically necessary; the decision to undergo treatment for Female Pattern Hair Loss is entirely elective for cosmetic reasons. The potential risks are usually minimal and temporary but can include: temporary scalp sensitivity, redness, minor swelling, and possible temporary increased shedding in the initial treatment phase (this is often a sign of stimulation). The primary risk is often the lack of objective response, as FPHL is a chronic, progressive condition. Treatment success requires consistency and adherence to the structured plan. These potential complications and risks are integral to the decision-making process for your Female Pattern Hair Loss treatment and will be fully detailed during your mandatory consultation.
All higher risk non-surgical cosmetic procedures are performed exclusively by a registered health practitioner, as our practice adheres strictly to the professional standards and guidelines set by the National Boards and Ahpra. This commitment means the practitioner’s primary duty is always to the patient, ensuring all decisions regarding your treatment are based on clinical necessity, not financial gain. Furthermore, every procedure will be performed by a practitioner possessing the appropriate qualifications, education, and competence relevant to the specific treatment being offered. We are obligated to provide you with clear, accurate, and objective information about the treatment, including the potential for complications. Finally, our practitioners are committed to proactively managing any potential conflict between the desire for financial return and their ethical and professional duty to provide the best and safest possible care for every patient.
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Who We Are
Our Clinicians
Dr. Rahma Targett
Registered Medical Practitioner (General Registration)
MED000567890
Dr. Targett is the founder of ACM and is committed to providing responsible cosmetic care.
Frequently Asked Questions
Before your consultation:
- Be ready to discuss your health: Prepare to provide a comprehensive medical history, including any existing conditions, known allergies, and a list of all medications, vitamins, and supplements you are currently taking. This information is vital for your practitioner to determine your suitability for the procedure.
- Set clear expectations: Think about your goals for the treatment and be prepared to discuss them openly. This allows your practitioner to provide you with realistic expectations of the possible outcomes and to confirm if the procedure is the right choice for you.
Leading up to your appointment:
- Avoid certain medications and supplements: To minimise the risk of bruising or bleeding, you may be advised to temporarily stop taking blood-thinning medications and certain supplements like aspirin, ibuprofen, fish oil, and vitamin E. Always follow your practitioner’s specific advice and never stop a prescribed medication without their approval.
- Refrain from alcohol: It’s generally recommended to avoid alcohol for at least 24 hours before your procedure, as it can increase the risk of bruising and swelling.
- Stay hydrated and healthy: Maintaining good health by staying hydrated and eating a balanced diet in the days leading up to your appointment can support your body’s healing process.
- Protect your skin: Avoid excessive sun exposure or sunburn on the area to be treated, as this can make your skin more sensitive and may require the procedure to be rescheduled.
- Prepare for your comfort: On the day of your appointment, wear loose, comfortable clothing and avoid wearing makeup or strong topical creams on the treatment area.
Specific instructions will be provided by Dr Rahma Targett based on your individual procedure.
Female pattern hair loss is primarily caused by a combination of genetics, hormonal changes, and the natural aging process. Other factors such as stress, nutritional deficiencies, and certain medical conditions can also contribute to hair thinning. A proper diagnosis is crucial to identify the specific cause in your case.
Hair growth is a slow process, and visible results typically take time. With consistent treatment, it can take several months to see a noticeable improvement in hair thickness and a reduction in shedding. Your practitioner will set realistic expectations for your specific case during your treatment plan discussion.
Most treatments for female hair loss are well-tolerated. Topical and oral treatments are non-invasive. Advanced procedures involve injections, and a local anaesthetic can be used to minimise any discomfort. Any potential discomfort will be discussed with you before the procedure.
Yes, a hair transplant can be an option for female pattern hair loss, but it’s often not the first choice and depends heavily on the specific pattern of hair loss.
The Key Difference: Male vs. Female Hair Loss
The primary reason for this is the difference in how hair loss typically presents in men and women:
- Male Pattern Hair Loss: Usually involves a receding hairline and/or a bald spot at the crown, with a stable “donor area” at the back and sides of the head. This makes them ideal candidates for a transplant, as there is a reliable source of healthy, permanent hair to move.
- Female Pattern Hair Loss: Characterized by diffuse thinning across the entire scalp, particularly on the top and crown. The hairline usually remains, but the hair becomes thinner and sparser everywhere. This means the “donor area” at the back and sides of the head may also be thinning, making it a less reliable source of permanent hair for transplantation
Treatment for Female Pattern Hair Loss is classified as a higher risk non-surgical cosmetic procedure because certain modalities used (e.g., medical needling, specialised energy-based devices) penetrate or significantly impact the scalp tissue to achieve therapeutic effect. This carries potential risks, including infection, temporary inflammation, and the potential for limited effectiveness if the underlying cause is complex. Due to these potential complications and the requirement for clinical oversight, the procedure requires assessment and administration by a registered health practitioner, as mandated by Ahpra guidelines.
No, we cannot guarantee a “full head of hair” or a “flawless” result. Ahpra guidelines prohibit us from creating unreasonable expectations regarding outcomes. Treatment for Female Pattern Hair Loss aims for a significant, objective improvement in density, thickness, and stabilisation of the condition. Your clinical results depend on individual factors, the stage of your hair loss, and your consistency with the treatment plan. The final, realistic outcome will be discussed thoroughly during your mandatory consultation.
Yes, a comprehensive consultation is essential and mandatory. It allows our registered health practitioner to confirm your suitability, assess your hair loss, and discuss all potential risks and realistic expectations for Female Pattern Hair Loss treatment. Following the consultation for this higher risk cosmetic procedure, we are obligated to offer a sufficient cooling-off period before you can consent to the actual treatment, ensuring you have adequate time to make a fully informed decision.