When you’re experiencing hair loss, the first step toward addressing the issue is to figure out what is causing it. Choosing the right product or procedure to obtain your desired hairline depends on the underlying cause of your hair loss. Some forms of hair loss are temporary and reversible, while others are progressive and more likely to be permanent without proper intervention.
What Are the Common Types of Hair Loss?
There are dozens of reasons you may experience hair loss or thinning. Some of the most common hair loss causes and their primary symptoms are:
- Androgenic alopecia, also known as male (or female) pattern baldness, is a genetic form of hair loss that increases with age. It is the most common form of hair loss, with nearly 80 percent of men and 50 percent of women experiencing it to some degree. In men, it causes an M-shaped hairline that typically recedes… even progressing to total baldness on the crown. In women, it presents as diffuse overall thinning that is most noticeable at the hairline and in the part. With treatment, the progression of androgenic alopecia can be slowed down, but ultimately it cannot be fully reversed without hair replacement surgery.
- Telogen effluvium is a common form of hair loss caused by psychological or physical stress. It disrupts the hair’s growth cycle, causing diffuse hair thinning throughout the scalp in excess of 50-100 strands each day. Fortunately, normal hair growth usually resumes several months after the stressor is addressed. In addition to stress reduction, there are supplements, lifestyle modifications, topical products, and noninvasive procedures that can slow hair loss and create optimal conditions for regrowth.
- Alopecia areata occurs when the immune system – triggered by illness, injury, or stress – attacks the hair follicles. It presents as patchy circles of hair loss on the head and body, which may eventually expand in size and overlap. With treatment, hair loss from alopecia areata may be reversible… especially if the underlying cause of the issue is resolved.
- Scarring alopecia, also known as cicatricial alopecia, is often caused by infections or autoimmune disorders. It may also be a result of burns, chemical exposure, or anything else that leaves a scar. Scarring alopecia is a permanent condition characterized by bald, shiny patches, possibly with redness, blistering, or scaliness. Those with scarring alopecia may be candidates for hair replacement surgery.
- Traction alopecia is caused by hairstyles or tight headwear that pull on or stress the hair’s shaft and roots – resulting in inflammation of the hair follicles, broken hairs, redness, itching, or a pimple-like rash. If traction alopecia isn’t addressed early, it may become irreversible. Hair replacement surgery is an option in such cases.
How Do I Know What Type of Hair Loss I Have?
Certain types of hair loss have distinct symptoms, while others may require a more thorough examination or medical testing to find the underlying cause. For example, androgenic alopecia (with its characteristic M-shaped hairline) and alopecia areata (with its circular balding patches) are fairly easy to identify. Hair loss caused by stressors or other autoimmune conditions may require further investigation.
We recommend booking a consultation to secure an accurate diagnosis. During your appointment, we will discuss your symptoms, lifestyle, and family history. We will also conduct an examination of your scalp and order any tests that may be required to determine the cause of your hair loss.
How Do I Know If My Hair Loss Is Normal?
It’s perfectly natural to lose between 50-100 strands of hair each day. While this may seem excessive, it is completely normal. Unless you are losing this hair in a noticeable pattern or in clumps, it’s not a cause for concern.
If you are losing more than 50-100 strands per day, it may be time to discuss your hair loss with a professional. Because hair loss is often progressive, the sooner you take action and seek treatment, the sooner you can enjoy a thicker and fuller head of hair.
Begin Your Hair Restoration Journey with LA FUE Hair New York
Beginning a hair restoration journey is a big step. LA FUE Hair New York gives you the knowledge and tools to make the best choices for your type of hair loss. We are here to answer your questions, help you set your hair restoration goals, and walk you through the entire process. Contact us today to schedule your complimentary consultation.