Alopecia (Hair Loss)

What is alopecia?

Alopecia refers to hair loss in various forms, affecting both men and women. While commonly associated with male or female pattern baldness, alopecia can manifest in multiple ways, impacting any area of the body. The condition may lead to thinning hair, scalp baldness, bald patches on different body parts, or in extreme cases, total baldness.

What causes alopecia?

The causes of alopecia are diverse and may include:

• Hormonal changes, as seen in male or female pattern baldness

• Fungal infections affecting the scalp

• Certain medications, including chemotherapy drugs

• Endocrine disorders such as thyroid or pituitary abnormalities

• Autoimmune conditions, notably alopecia areata

• Hair follicles stuck in the shedding phase

• Trichotillomania, a condition characterized by compulsive hair-pulling

• Harmful hair treatments like chemical straighteners, hot combs, and waxes

• Emotional or physical stress

• In some instances, the cause may remain unidentified

What are the symptoms of alopecia?

Alopecia primarily manifests as hair loss, the extent and pattern of which can vary depending on the specific type of alopecia involved.

How do I treat alopecia?

The treatment for alopecia generally focuses on addressing the root cause. Diagnostic tests, such as blood work, may be conducted to identify underlying issues. Treatment options can range from topical medications for fungal infections or to stimulate hair growth, to systemic treatments for underlying medical conditions. For some cases, like chemotherapy-induced alopecia, hair may regrow after the completion of treatment. The therapeutic approach is highly individualized and depends on the specific cause of the alopecia.

For further information on over-the-counter treatments, please refer to our hair loss recommendation sheet.