Why does your ponytail suddenly feel thinner? Why does your parting look wider in photos? And why are so many women told that hair thinning is “just part of ageing” ... with very little guidance on what to do next? In this episode of the After Hours Skin Clinic , consultant dermatologists Dr Emma Craythorne and Dr Ellie Rashid unpack the science, myths and emotional reality of female pattern hair loss. From hormonal shifts and nutritional deficiencies to stress, postpartum shedding and scalp inflammation, they explain why female hair thinning is often misunderstood and why early diagnosis matters more than most people realise. Expect evidence-based advice, practical treatment insights, and a few unexpectedly funny moments involving ketoconazole shampoo and a very confused patient. Inside this episode: What female pattern hair loss actually is (and why it’s different from male pattern baldness) The signs dermatologists look for during scalp examination and trichoscopy Why hair loss in women is often dismissed for too long The role of hormones, genetics, thyroid health, stress and menopause Iron, ferritin, zinc and vitamin D: the blood tests that really matter Why “hair vitamins” aren’t always the answer How dandruff and seborrhoeic dermatitis can affect scalp health and hair growth The truth about minoxidil, including the “dread shed” Oral minoxidil, spironolactone, finasteride and other medical treatments PRP, microneedling, laser-assisted delivery and LED helmets, what does the evidence actually say? Why postpartum hair shedding can sometimes uncover underlying female pattern hair loss When thinning hair could signal something more serious This episode is for anyone who has ever looked at their hairbrush, widened parting or thinning ponytail and wondered: is this normal and what can I do about it? Follow & Connect with us ⬇️ YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@AfterHoursSkinClinic Instagram: ⁠@afterhoursskinclinic⁠ Email: ⁠[email protected]⁠ Producer: Ella Blaxill Exec: Eve Streeter Music by Simon Elms. This is a Raconteur Studios Production. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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