Feeling overwhelmed and stressed about hair loss? We understand how challenging it can be. If you're searching for information, medical jargon might complicate matters even more. But don't worry—we're here to break it down for you.

Let's briefly discuss the two main categories of hair loss to help you better understand their causes and your hair restoration options. We will get into the details of each type to provide you with comprehensive insights on how to address them effectively.

Non-Scarring Alopecia Category

This category of hair loss does not destroy the hair follicle, allowing for the potential of regrowth. It is more common and includes both male and female pattern hair loss.

Types: Androgenetic Alopecia (Pattern Baldness), Alopecia Areata, Telogen Effluvium, Traction Alopecia, Trichotillomania.

Scarring Alopecia Category

This category of hair loss is caused by inflammation that destroys hair follicles and replaces them with scar tissue, resulting in permanent hair loss.

Types: Central Centrifugal Cicatricial Alopecia, Frontal Fibrosing Alopecia, Lichen Planopilaris, Discoid Lupus Erythematosus.

Dr. Zack Charkawi, our board-certified physician at Springs Hair Restoration, offers effective treatments and successful hair transplants for both men and women. He can help you treat various types of hair loss and regain your confidence today.

Androgenetic Alopecia

Androgenetic alopecia, also known as male- or female-pattern baldness, is a common form of hair loss influenced by genetic factors and hormones. In men, it typically presents as a receding hairline and balding on the top of the head, while in women, it manifests as thinning hair along the crown of the scalp. This type of hair loss occurs gradually and follows a predictable pattern over time​.

Both hair transplants medical treatments and are viable options. Medical treatments require continuous use to maintain benefits, while hair transplants offer a more permanent solution but come with higher costs and longer recovery times

Alopecia Effluvium

Alopecia areata is an autoimmune condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks hair follicles, leading to sudden, patchy hair loss. This condition can affect the scalp, beard, eyebrows, and other areas of the body. The hair often falls out in small, round patches, and the affected skin may feel itchy or painful before the hair falls out​. Hair regrowth typically does occur over time; however, the course is unpredictable and new patches can appear as old patches disappear. There is no cure for alopecia Areata.

However, there are treatment options to help promote hair regrowth. There are several treatment options include topicals, intralesional corticosteroids for localized patches, and non-surgical injection treatments, as well as new treatments that target specific parts of the immune system.

Telogen Areata

This is a common, temporary form of hair loss that typically occurs after a physical or psychological stressor including illness, pregnancy, and certain medications. Hair loss usually occurs a few months after the triggering event and can result in overall thinning of the hair.

Hair regrowth typically occurs after dealing with the stressor, however, and can be encouraged with treatments such as injections or topical treatment options.

Traction Alopecia

Traction alopecia is caused by prolonged tension or pulling on the hair, often due to certain hairstyles such as tight ponytails, braids, or pigtails. This type of hair loss can become permanent if the hair follicles are damaged over time. Preventive measures include avoiding tight hairstyles and minimizing the use of hair treatments that cause stress to the hair follicles.

If scarring has occurred, it may limit the effectiveness of topical treatments. In such cases, medications to reduce inflammation may be prescribed.

A hair transplant may be an option for those with significant hair loss and scarring. This involves moving hair follicles from one part of the scalp to the affected areas. However, the success of this procedure can vary depending on the extent of the scarring.

Trichotillomania

Trichotillomania is a psychological condition characterized by an irresistible urge to pull out one’s hair, often resulting in noticeable hair loss. This behavior can affect the scalp, eyebrows, and other body areas. It is often linked to stress, anxiety, or other underlying mental health issues.

Treatment typically involves behavioral therapy and, in some cases, medication.

We provide hair restoration consultations at both our Johns Creek and Sandy Springs locations, which are easily accessible to patients in the Greater Atlanta area, including Atlanta, Alpharetta, Cumming, Roswell, Sandy Springs, Duluth, Dunwoody, Marietta, and Johns Creek.