Types of hair loss affect millions of men and women and can stem from genetics, hormones, lifestyle, and medical conditions. In this post, we’ll cover the six most common types of hair loss seen in dermatology—what causes them, how they look, and which treatments may help—so you can seek timely, expert care.
1) Type of Hair Loss: Androgenetic Alopecia (Pattern Baldness)
Androgenetic alopecia—often called male or female pattern baldness—is the most prevalent type of hair loss. It’s largely hereditary and linked to how hair follicles respond to androgens (such as testosterone).
In men: it typically starts with a receding hairline and thinning at the crown.
In women: diffuse thinning is common at the crown and part line rather than complete baldness.
Causes: genetics, hormonal changes, and aging.
Treatments: topical minoxidil, oral finasteride (for men), low‑level laser therapy, platelet‑rich plasma, hair transplantation, and nutraceuticals (e.g., Nutrafol) with consistent use over months.
2) Type of Hair Loss: Telogen Effluvium (Shedding After Stress)
Telogen effluvium is a temporary type of hair loss caused by a disruption in the hair cycle that pushes many hairs into the resting (telogen) phase, leading to increased shedding.
Triggers: significant stress, illness, surgery, pregnancy/postpartum, rapid weight loss, medications, or nutrient deficiencies.
Symptoms: diffuse shedding across the scalp, often noticeable in the shower or on brushes.
Treatments: address the underlying trigger (stress reduction, nutrition optimization, medication review). Short‑term minoxidil may help support regrowth while the cycle resets.
3) Type of Hair Loss: Alopecia Areata (Autoimmune Patches)
Alopecia areata is an autoimmune type of hair loss where the immune system attacks hair follicles, causing smooth, round patches of hair loss. It can start at any age.
Causes: complex interplay of genetics and environment; stress or infections may be involved.
Symptoms: patchy bald spots; in severe forms it can progress to alopecia totalis (entire scalp) or alopecia universalis (entire body).
Treatments: in‑office corticosteroid injections, topical minoxidil, topical immunotherapy, and emerging targeted therapies; treatment plans are individualized.
4) Type of Hair Loss: Traction Alopecia (Hairstyle‑Related)
Traction alopecia results from chronic tension on hair follicles from tight styles (braids, ponytails, buns, extensions).
Symptoms: thinning or breakage along the hairline or temples; with prolonged traction, scarring and permanent loss can occur.
Treatments: early intervention is key—loosen styles, switch to protective techniques, use gentle accessories, and consider topical minoxidil to encourage regrowth if scarring hasn’t occurred.
5) Type of Hair Loss: Trichotillomania (Hair‑Pulling Disorder)
Trichotillomania involves compulsive hair pulling that creates irregular patches of hair loss on the scalp, brows, or lashes.
Causes: behavioral and psychological factors; often coexists with anxiety or depression.
Treatments: cognitive‑behavioral therapy (CBT) is first‑line; adjunct medications may help address underlying conditions.
6) Type of Hair Loss: Scarring (Cicatricial) Alopecia
Scarring alopecia includes inflammatory conditions that permanently damage follicles, replacing them with scar tissue.
Causes: disorders such as lichen planopilaris, discoid lupus, and folliculitis decalvans.
Symptoms: scalp redness, tenderness, itching, or shiny areas where hair won’t regrow.
Treatments: urgent evaluation to halt inflammation using corticosteroids, immunomodulators, and targeted therapies; early diagnosis improves outcomes.
Does The DERM Center treat all of these types of hair loss?
Yes, we treat ALL types of hair loss! Hair loss is multifactorial, and an accurate diagnosis is essential before treatment. If you’re noticing shedding or thinning, schedule an evaluation for a personalized plan. Early intervention can significantly improve hair health and confidence—whether the cause is genetic, hormonal, autoimmune, behavioral, or stress‑related.
Helpful external resources:
- Learn more about types of hair loss from the American Academy of Dermatology: https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/hair-loss
- Support and education for alopecia areata: https://www.naaf.org/alopecia-areata/
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