What are the three most common types of hair loss

1. Androgenic Alopecia (Male and Female Pattern Baldness)

• Cause: Genetic predisposition and the influence of androgens (male hormones, like testosterone), which can shrink hair follicles over time.

• Pattern:

  • Men: Often starts with a receding hairline at the temples and thinning at the crown, eventually leading to baldness in advanced stages.

  • Women: Typically causes diffuse thinning on the top of the scalp, but the hairline usually remains intact. Complete baldness is rare.

• Onset: Gradual, typically beginning in the late teens or early 20s for men, and around menopause for women.

• Progression: Slow and progressive. It worsens over time but can be managed with treatments like minoxidil or finasteride.

2. Alopecia Areata

• Cause: An autoimmune disorder where the immune system mistakenly attacks hair follicles.

• Pattern: Causes round or oval patches of hair loss, most commonly on the scalp, though it can occur elsewhere on the body.

  • Alopecia Totalis: Total hair loss on the scalp.

  • Alopecia Universalis: Complete hair loss across the entire body.

• Onset: Sudden, often affecting children or young adults, but can occur at any age.

• Progression: Hair loss typically occurs in patches and may regrow on its own, though it can progress to total loss or persist. Treatments like corticosteroids or immunotherapy may help, but there’s no cure.

3. Telogen Effluvium

• Cause: A disruption in the hair growth cycle, usually triggered by physical or emotional stress (e.g., illness, surgery, childbirth, major life changes).

• Pattern: Diffuse thinning across the scalp, with overall shedding but no distinct bald patches.

• Onset: Hair shedding typically begins 3 to 6 months after the stressor or trigger.

• Progression: Often temporary, with hair regrowing within 6 to 12 months once the underlying cause is addressed. In some cases, it can become chronic if the stressor persists.

Summary of Key Differences:

• Androgenic Alopecia: Gradual, patterned hair loss due to genetic and hormonal factors.

• Alopecia Areata: Sudden, patchy hair loss caused by the immune system attacking hair follicles.

• Telogen Effluvium: Temporary, diffuse hair shedding triggered by stress or other factors.

If you’re experiencing hair loss, identifying the cause is crucial for effective treatment. Consulting a specialist can help determine the right course of action based on your specific situation.