What is female pattern baldness?

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Noticeable patterned baldness in women usually starts after menopause when the production of the female hormone estrogen slows down dramatically or stops altogether. This clears the way for testosterone to dominate the hormonal system and it gets broken down into a destructive variant hormone known as dihydrotestosterone (DHT) when coming into contact with the enzyme 5-alpha reductase (found in the skin). DHT is responsible for inhibiting the follicles' ability to produce new hair strands. Since hair is constantly falling out and being replaced, dysfunctional reproduction soon becomes apparent. Regrettably it is an irreversible process caused by heredity.

 
Women however do not suffer from the characteristic U-shaped baldness commonly observed in men. Instead there is thinning all over the scalp, particularly noticeable in 'spots'.