Question by Charlotte P.
How do I know whether the contraceptive pill I'm taking is good or bad for my hair?
Clauderer's answer
If you don't have an androgenetic tendency to lose your hair, chances are you won't lose any more than usual, whatever pill you take. On the other hand, if you already suffer from an androgenetic hair loss your choice of pill can have a positive or negative impact on your hair.
The impact can be negative if the progestin in your contraceptive has a tendency to 'androgenise'. If, on the other hand, it contains a progestogen with an anti-androgenic tendency and sufficient oestrogen (0.03 mg/day), it may have a positive impact on the quality and renewal of your hair. Clauderer has compiled the list of contraceptives, with their respective quotations. These ratings are based solely on hair size and many other criteria will be taken into account by your doctor when choosing the pill that's best for you.