The Link Between Hormones and Hair Growth
The relationship between hormones and hair health is complex. The hormones estrogen and androgens (like testosterone and DHT) play a significant role in the hair growth cycle. The cycle consists of three main phases: anagen (growth), catagen (transitional), and telogen (resting/shedding).
Estrogen is considered a "hair-friendly" hormone because it helps prolong the anagen phase, promoting thicker, healthier hair. Conversely, high levels of androgens can shorten the anagen phase and shrink hair follicles, leading to hair thinning, a condition known as androgenic alopecia or female pattern hair loss. This is particularly common in women with conditions like Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), where high androgen levels are a key feature.
How Birth Control Affects Hair Growth
Birth control pills contain synthetic versions of estrogen and progestin, which regulate hormone levels to prevent pregnancy. However, the type of progestin in a pill determines its androgenic potential. Progestins with high androgenic activity can counteract the positive effects of estrogen, potentially causing or worsening hair thinning in sensitive individuals. Low-androgen or anti-androgenic progestins are preferred when hair health is a concern because they help lower circulating androgens and block their effects on hair follicles.
Low-Androgen Pills for Better Hair Health
Combined oral contraceptives (COCs) that contain low-androgen progestins are often recommended for women experiencing hormonal hair loss. These pills can work by:
- Reducing the production of androgens in the ovaries.
- Increasing the level of Sex Hormone-Binding Globulin (SHBG), a protein that binds to excess androgens in the bloodstream, making them less active.
- Blocking androgens from binding to hair follicle receptors.
Commonly recommended low-androgen pills include:
- Drospirenone-containing pills (Yaz, Yasmin): These are particularly notable because drospirenone has anti-androgenic effects similar to the medication spironolactone. They are effective for managing PCOS-related hair loss by significantly reducing testosterone levels. Other brands with drospirenone include Beyaz and Nextstellis.
- Desogestrel-containing pills (Desogen, Ortho-Cept): As a third-generation progestin, desogestrel has low androgenic activity and is effective at reducing circulating androgens. Examples include Desogen, Ortho-Cept, and Ortho-Cyclen.
- Norgestimate-containing pills (Ortho Tri-Cyclen): This progestin is known for its minimal interaction with androgen receptors and low androgenic activity, making it a good option for those sensitive to hormonal changes. Ortho Tri-Cyclen Lo offers a lower estrogen dose.
High-Androgen Pills to Potentially Avoid
Some birth control pills contain progestins with higher androgenic activity that may contribute to hair loss in genetically predisposed individuals. For those concerned about hair thinning, methods containing these progestins may be less suitable. Examples include:
- Pills with norethindrone (like some versions of Junel or Errin)
- Pills with levonorgestrel (like Nordette)
- Pills with norgestrel (like Lo/Ovral)
- The hormonal shot (Depo-Provera)
- Hormonal IUDs (contain levonorgestrel)
Comparison of Hair-Friendly Birth Control Pills
| Pill (Active Ingredients) | Androgenic Potential | Primary Benefit for Hair | Other Benefits | Common Side Effects |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ethinyl Estradiol + Drospirenone (Yaz, Yasmin) | Very Low (Anti-androgenic) | Excellent; reduces testosterone and DHT | Improves acne, reduces water retention | Nausea, mood changes, potassium elevation |
| Ethinyl Estradiol + Desogestrel (Desogen, Ortho-Cept) | Low | Good; lowers circulating androgens | Regulates menstrual cycles, improves acne | Nausea, headaches, breakthrough bleeding |
| Ethinyl Estradiol + Norgestimate (Ortho Tri-Cyclen) | Very Low | Good; minimal interaction with androgen receptors | Safer profile for clot risks | Nausea, headaches, mood changes |
Important Considerations and Next Steps
If you are experiencing hair thinning and suspect your birth control may be the cause, or if you are starting a new contraceptive and want to prioritize hair health, there are important steps to take. First and foremost, consult with a healthcare provider, such as a gynecologist or dermatologist. They can help identify the underlying cause of your hair loss, as other factors like stress, nutritional deficiencies, or underlying medical conditions can also play a role.
Your doctor will consider your complete health profile, including family history of hair loss, to recommend the best pill for you. It's crucial to be patient, as hormonal changes can take time to affect hair growth. It can take several months for your hair cycle to adjust and for noticeable changes to occur after starting or switching birth control.
Conclusion
For those asking which birth control pill is best for hair growth, the answer lies in choosing a combined oral contraceptive with low-androgen or anti-androgenic properties. Pills containing drospirenone (like Yaz/Yasmin), desogestrel, or norgestimate are generally considered the most hair-friendly options. These work by countering the effects of androgens, which can promote healthier, longer hair growth. Conversely, pills with higher-androgen progestins and progestin-only methods may contribute to thinning. Ultimately, a personalized consultation with a healthcare provider is the most effective way to select a birth control option that aligns with your overall health goals and supports optimal hair health.
