Overview
Hair loss (alopecia) is the loss of hair beyond what is considered normal. Losing 50-100 hairs a day is normal; losses, thinning, or balding beyond this number require attention. 50% of men and 25% of women experience some form of hair loss in their lifetime.
Types
- Androgenetic alopecia: Male/female pattern (most common, genetic + hormonal)
- Telogen effluvium: Temporary, diffuse hair loss after stress, childbirth, illness
- Alopecia areata: Autoimmune, hairless patches
- Anagen effluvium: Due to chemotherapy
- Trichotillomania: Hair pulling behavior
Symptoms
- Significant thinning of hair
- Receding hairline (front in men, widening part in women)
- Thinning at the crown
- Patchy hair loss
- Hair coming out during combing/washing
- Hair accumulation on pillow
- Increasing day-to-day shedding
Causes
- Genetics (most common)
- Hormonal changes (pregnancy, menopause, thyroid, PCOS)
- Iron, B12, vitamin D, zinc deficiency
- Autoimmune diseases
- Extreme stress
- Chemotherapy, certain medications
- Extreme dieting
- Scalp infection
- Tight hairstyles
When to See a Doctor
- Sudden, diffuse hair loss
- Patchy loss
- Shedding lasting more than 6 months
- Significant balding at a young age
- Psychological impact
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis: Physical examination, pull test, blood tests (iron, B12, D, zinc, thyroid, hormones), biopsy if needed.
Treatment:
- Minoxidil (topical, men and women)
- Finasteride, dutasteride (in men, reduces DHT)
- Hair transplant (FUE, DHI)
- PRP treatment, mesotherapy
- Low-level laser
- In alopecia areata: topical/intralesional corticosteroids, JAK inhibitors
- Supplements if deficiency exists
Prevention
- Eat a balanced and protein-rich diet
- Review your hair washing and care habits
- Avoid tight hairstyles, excessive heat tools
- Manage stress
- See a dermatologist early