Our current Author Spotlight features Dawn Queen MD, who co-authored the article titled, “Hair Transplantation in Women” published in JDD’s September issue. In addition to the article, JDD asked Dr. Queen some questions in order to provide some deeper insight to our readership on the author behind the article.
In your experience, what is one commonly overlooked factor in diagnosing or managing a specific skin condition that you think deserves more attention?
In women, hair loss is often assumed to be female pattern hair loss or telogen effluvium, but systemic contributors and scarring alopecias are relatively more common than in men. A low threshold for laboratory evaluation and biopsy is essential, particularly before transplantation.
Of all your research findings, are there any surprising or unexpected results that changed your perspective on the topic?
One important takeaway was recognizing how frequently scarring alopecias are identified in women being evaluated for transplantation compared to men. This reinforced the importance of thorough evaluation and biopsy when appropriate before surgery.
How do you see artificial intelligence and digital dermatology evolving in clinical practice over the next five years?
AI and digital imaging will improve preoperative planning and graft placement, especially for women with diffuse thinning, by enhancing precision while preserving existing hair. Beyond surgery, AI-based trichoscopy analysis could help distinguish female pattern hair loss from scarring alopecias earlier, and digital tools may allow patients to track shedding and treatment response more accurately over time.
If you could implement one immediate policy change to improve dermatologic care on a broader scale, what would it be and why?
I would advocate for expanded insurance coverage of evidence-based hair restoration procedures such as PRP, laser therapy, and hair transplantation, which are often labeled cosmetic despite the significant psychosocial impact of hair loss.
Are there any misconceptions among dermatologists or patients about a specific treatment or condition that you would like to address?
A common misconception is that women are not good candidates for hair transplantation. In reality, with careful patient selection and counseling, it can be highly effective and transformative. Another frequent misunderstanding is that follicular unit extraction (FUE), often featured on social media, is the only option and requires shaving the head. For women, follicular unit transplantation (FUT) is often preferred, as it preserves long hairstyles and can achieve excellent aesthetic outcomes.
How do you navigate the challenge of balancing efficacy and accessibility when recommending treatments to patients from diverse backgrounds?
I offer a range of evidence-based options, from medical therapies to procedural modalities, and tailor recommendations to patient goals, comfort, and resources.
What role do you think social determinants of health play in dermatologic treatment outcomes, and how can dermatologists better address these challenges?
Social determinants strongly influence access to hair loss care, since most treatments are not covered by insurance. Dermatologists can help by offering tiered treatment plans and advocating for broader coverage.
If you could collaborate with any other specialty or field to advance dermatologic research, which would it be and why?
Collaboration with endocrinology as well as OB/GYN would be especially valuable, as hormonal factors play a central role in female hair loss and an integrated approach could optimize outcomes.
What is a piece of advice you wish you had received earlier in your dermatology career?
One important piece of advice is that managing hair loss is as much about counseling as it is about medicine. Supporting patients emotionally and setting expectations realistically are critical to success.
Outside of clinical practice and research, what excites you most about the future of dermatology?
I am excited by advances in regenerative therapies such as exosomes, peptides, and stem cell-based treatments. These innovations will expand treatment options and provide transformative results for patients.
