Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can help stimulate hair regrowth in some cases, but results vary widely between individuals. There are a few key points to understand:
- Both estrogen and testosterone play roles in hair growth. Estrogen in particular helps push hair into the growing phase and promotes thicker, faster hair growth.
- People assigned male at birth who take feminizing HRT containing estrogen and anti-androgens may experience some hair regrowth, especially if hair loss was related to high testosterone levels prior to transition. However, regrowth potential depends on your genes, age, and extent of miniaturization of hair follicles.
- Those assigned female at birth taking masculinizing HRT with testosterone may notice some hair thickening, but testosterone can also accelerate a genetic predisposition to male pattern baldness. Using DHT-blockers like finasteride could help mitigate hair loss risk.
- Other treatments are often needed alongside HRT for the best hair regrowth results:
- Minoxidil liquid solution directly stimulates hair follicles and can enhance growth. Brand name Rogaine is a common option.
- Microneedling helps improve minoxidil absorption. Done 1-2 times per week alongside topical treatments.
- Low Level Laser Light Therapy may help reactivate dormant follicles and improve hair density. More research still needed on ideal protocols.
- Discuss your options with an experienced HRT provider. Work together to tailor a treatment plan suited to your specific hormonal needs and hair growth goals.
Can HRT Bring Back Lost Hair?
It depends - but likely only for hair that has been dormant, not permanently damaged:
- Vellus hairs that have "gone to sleep" can potentially be reawakened to grow longer, thicker hairs again with hormonal adjustments and stimulation treatments.
- However, follicles that have undergone significant miniaturization (gradually producing thinner, wispier hairs) are harder to recover. Over time, DHT production can damage follicles to the point that they no longer function.
- The earlier you start treatment, the better your chances of reviving weakened follicles before they vanish completely. Consistency is key.
- If your scalp already shows signs of substantial visible thinning with mostly peach fuzz hairs remaining, recovery will be limited even with aggressive treatments. But maintenance of the hair you have left is still possible.
What to Expect and When with HRT for Hair Growth
Timelines and responses are highly variable. Patience is required.
- For those with milder hair loss (noticed thinning but no obvious balding patches), 3-6 months is a typical timeframe to start noticing a potential change in shedding rates or thicker hairs pushing through. Give it at least 9-12 months before judging the full effects.
- In those with more extensive miniaturization and visible circular bald spots, complete recovery is less likely. But you may observe some fuzzy regrowth around the edges of receded hairlines or patches after 6-12 months of consistent, aggressive treatment.
Consistency is critical - hair growth occurs in cycles, so see treatment through for at least 1 year before assessing whether you are a “responder” or not. Maintenance is often lifelong to sustain benefits.
I wish you the very best in your hair regrowth journey! Reach out to my clinic Equilibrium Hormone Institute at for a consult if you need guidance getting started with HRT customized to your needs. We have many happy clients who have successfully used
hormone therapy to throttle hair loss and spur regrowth where possible. There are always options to explore to help you look and feel your best!
