Experiencing hair loss can be overwhelming, but innovative treatments and compassionate care offer a path to restoring your hair and your peace of mind.
Alopecia is hair loss on the scalp and body that results from hormonal changes, aging, autoimmune disorders, manual manipulation, medications, and other rare causes. It affects men and women and can be temporary or permanent. In some cases, people will notice small, quarter-sized patches of hair loss in one centralized location. Others will see widespread hair loss covering the entirety of the scalp. Bald spots caused by alopecia may grow back over time but may fall out again after regrowth. It is important to understand the various patterns of hair loss, as well as the underlying causes, to build the most effective treatment plan.
Symptoms may vary by each case. The most common symptoms include:
Hereditary hair loss, the most common cause, is attributed directly to your family’s genetics. This condition is also known as androgenetic alopecia and is associated with hormone levels and aging. This occurs in both men and women and is more commonly referred to as male/female pattern hair loss. Hereditary hair loss is typically gradual and appears in noticeable patterns.
Telogen effluvium occurs when a significant number of hair follicles enter the resting phase prematurely, leading to noticeable shedding. This condition is often triggered by physical or emotional stress, illness, or hormonal changes, such as postpartum or menopause. While the shedding is temporary, addressing the underlying cause and supporting scalp health can accelerate recovery.
Deficits in key nutrients such as iron, zinc, vitamin D, or biotin can cause hair loss. Without adequate nutrition, hair follicles may weaken, resulting in thinning and shedding. Addressing deficiencies through dietary changes or supplements can help restore hair strength and promote healthy regrowth over time.
Hormonal changes such as childbirth, pregnancy, menopause, and various thyroid conditions have a history of causing slow and prolonged hair loss. These imbalances impact the growth cycle of hair follicles, causing prolonged shedding. Treatments targeting the underlying hormonal issues often help stabilize hair loss and improve hair density.
Beauty treatments that include harsh chemicals or continuous use of heating tools can cause inflammation of the hair follicle and can lead to sudden hair loss. Traction alopecia results from prolonged tension on hair follicles caused by tight hairstyles, such as braids, ponytails, or extensions. This condition can lead to weakened follicles and hair loss, especially along the hairline. Preventative measures include adopting gentler styling practices and avoiding excessive tension, while treatment may involve stimulating regrowth and repairing the scalp.
Hair loss may be a side effect of certain oral medications, including chemotherapy, antidepressants, and blood pressure drugs. This shedding, often temporary, occurs when the drugs disrupt the hair growth cycle. In many cases, hair regrowth resumes once the medication is adjusted or discontinued, alongside supportive treatments to nurture the scalp. If you believe a medication is causing hair loss, contact your dermatologist to express your concerns before you stop taking the medication.
Tinea capitis is a fungal infection of the scalp that causes hair loss in round patches, often accompanied by redness, scaling, and itchiness. This contagious condition primarily affects children but can occur in adults. Antifungal treatments effectively combat the infection, allowing hair to regrow in the affected areas.
Underlying autoimmune conditions may also play a role in gradual hair loss and/or sudden bald patches. People with a history of prior autoimmune diseases like vitiligo may be more likely to experience hair loss at some point in their life.
Our dermatologists are dedicated to crafting the most effective treatment options for hair loss. Our main goal is to regenerate hair growth and prevent immune cells from attacking hair follicles in the future. Treatment options vary depending on your diagnosis, age, and the amount of hair loss you are experiencing and may include the following:
If you are interested in learning more about our treatment options, book a consultation with one of our board-certified dermatologists today.
Your skin health matters, so don’t delay. Our clinicians look forward to treating you and your family at one of our local New England practices.
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