Overview
What is Hair Loss?
Hair loss (alopecia) is the excessive shedding or thinning of hair that can affect men and women of all ages. It may develop gradually over time or occur suddenly and can be temporary or permanent.
Hair loss is commonly categorised into:
- Androgenetic alopecia: Pattern baldness affecting the scalp.
- Telogen effluvium: Temporary shedding caused by stress, illness, or hormonal changes.
- Alopecia areata: Patchy hair loss due to autoimmune reactions.
- Anagen effluvium: Hair loss during the growth phase, often caused by chemotherapy.
- Scarring (cicatricial) alopecia: Permanent hair loss where follicles are destroyed.
Symptoms and Causes
How Hair Loss Appears
Hair loss can present as:
- Patterned thinning: Hair gradually becomes thinner at the crown or front.
- Patchy bald spots: Small, smooth patches of baldness typical in alopecia areata.
- Diffuse shedding: Widespread hair drop across the scalp, often following stress or illness.
- Loss during hair growth (anagen phase): Common with chemotherapy or certain medicines.
- Permanent loss: When follicles are destroyed, as in scarring alopecia.
Underlying Factors: Key contributors include, a family history of baldness, hormonal imbalances (such as thyroid dysfunction), autoimmune disorders, poor nutrition, certain medications or medical therapies, high stress levels, and hairstyles that place excessive strain on the hair.
Diagnosis and Tests
A GP or dermatologist can usually diagnose hair loss by examining the scalp and reviewing your medical history. Further investigations may involve:
- Blood tests, to assess thyroid function, iron status, and hormone levels
- Scalp biopsy, in cases where scarring hair loss is suspected
- Microscopic or imaging techniques, to check the structure and health of hair follicles
- Early diagnosis is important, as it supports more effective, tailored treatment.
Management and Treatment
The right treatment depends on the type of hair loss:
- Medical therapies: For example, topical minoxidil for pattern hair loss, or steroids (injection or cream) for alopecia areata.
- Procedural options: Hair transplant surgery for persistent bald areas, or low‑level laser therapy to boost follicle growth.
- Supportive measures: Use of wigs or hairpieces, gentle scalp care, and lifestyle modifications to tackle nutritional or stress-related triggers.
Outlook/Prognosis
The likely outcome varies:
- Telogen effluvium often improves once the triggering factor is addressed, with hair typically regrowing over several months.
- Androgenetic alopecia may persist but can be managed effectively with medical treatments.
- Alopecia areata may improve on its own or with treatment, though recurrences are common.
- Scarring alopecia can cause permanent loss, making early diagnosis and intervention especially important.
Appropriate treatment and support can improve cosmetic results and lessen emotional impact.
Prevention
Not all hair loss can be prevented particularly genetic forms, but there are ways to help look after your hair:
- Avoid tight hairstyles and harsh chemical or heat treatments
- Eat a balanced diet with sufficient protein, iron, and other key nutrients
- Manage stress through relaxation, exercise, or therapy
- Seek early medical advice if hair loss is rapid, patchy, or distressing
