Types of Hair Loss

Did you know there are many types of hair loss?

They are divided into scarring and non-scarring alopecia.

Non-scarring alopecia is more common and includes both male and female pattern hair loss (androgenetic alopecia), alopecia areata, and telogen effluvium.

Scarring alopecia typically occurs after inflammation, which results in the destruction of follicles and leads to permanent and irreversible hair loss. Scarring alopecia can result from fungal infection, mechanical traction, harsh chemicals including hair relaxers, and other systemic inflammatory diseases.

Androgenetic alopecia is the most common type of hair loss in both men and women. Androgen is a hormone, and like testosterone, is present in men and women. Androgen at higher levels can contribute to hair loss. Patients with androgenetic alopecia typically have a family history of hair loss. This familial type of hair loss results in the gradual conversion of terminal hairs into fine, weaker hair. These fine hairs are called miniaturized hair follicles and they become so weak they shed. Androgenetic alopecia is characterized by the gradual onset of increased shedding. This type of hair loss is very common and we see it in all age groups, even youths. Catching this hair loss early is vital in preserving and preventing hair shedding. This type of hair loss is different in men and women. In men, the thinning is typically present in the crown or in the loss of the frontal hairline. In women the pattern is more variable and often spares the frontal hairline, however, it can result in diffused thinning throughout the crown. At Springs Hair Restoration we offer many treatment options for androgenetic alopecia. Treatment options vary based on the stage of hair loss, age, and sex of the patient. Surgical as well as more conservative treatment options are available.

Alopecia areata is another type of non-scarring hair loss, which can affect men, women, adults, and children alike. Hair loss in alopecia areata typically occurs in round or oval-shaped patches. Less common forms of alopecia areata can result in complete hair loss on the scalp or throughout the body. Alopecia areata is thought to be due to an underlying autoimmune etiology. 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 Blood Growth Factor treatment, as well as new treatments that target specific parts of the immune system such as xeljanz. At Springs Hair Restoration we find the best treatment for you.

Telogen effluvium is a common, temporary form of hair loss that typically occurs after a physical or psychological stressor including illness, pregnancy, and certain medications. Hair regrowth typically occurs after dealing with the stressor, however, and can be encouraged with treatments such as Blood Growth Factor or topical treatment options.

Are you suffering from loss of your frontal hairline?

Springs Hair Restoration has the best treatment options for you in Sandy Springs and Metro Atlanta. Central centrifugal cicatricial alopecia (CCCA) is a very common cause of hair loss in individuals of skin of color. It is a scarring form of hair loss, which causes the destruction of the hair follicles leading to permanent hair loss. The exact cause is unknown, however, excessive tension on the hair follicles from tight braiding or extensions as well as the frequent use of chemicals on the scalp such as hair relaxers have been linked to the development of CCCA. Early treatment is best to prevent permanent hair loss before it develops. As the hair loss progresses scarring also progresses. There are treatment options for CCCA and some patients benefit from hair restoration procedures.