Introduction:
Hair loss is often seen as a natural chapter in the story of life and ageing, with a staggering 80% of us destined to experience it at some point. It’s so prevalent that it’s woven into the fabric of our lives, but the surrounding myths, misunderstandings, and misinformation can make it feel like a labyrinth. We are here to help set the record straight.
Experiencing hair loss can sometimes feel like losing a part of one’s identity, taking a toll on self-esteem and confidence. Because it’s such a personal journey, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, and without a clear understanding of the particular type of hormonal hair loss one is dealing with, it can lead to rushed decisions about hair loss treatments that may not deliver the desired results.
But it’s essential to remember that hair loss is not a one-size-fits-all situation. There are several types of hair loss, and identifying your unique symptoms is your first ticket to successfully navigating this journey. This is where we come in.
At Advanced Hair Studio, we believe that every journey should start with a clear map. That’s why we begin every patient’s journey with our Advanced Hair Check. This comprehensive hair loss assessment, performed by a hair expert using the latest microscopic imaging technology, is designed to pinpoint your specific hair loss stage and condition. With this knowledge, we can determine the best course of action tailored to your needs.
We’re here, ready to collaborate, to help you regain control and confidence in your journey through hair loss. Together, let’s set a course for success and introduce you to the different types of hair loss.
Androgenic Alopecia
Hair loss is like a complex jigsaw puzzle, with multiple pieces contributing to the overall picture. After extensive research and observations, scientists concur that the most frequently seen piece in this puzzle is related to our genetic makeup. This type of hair loss is termed Androgenic or Androgenetic Alopecia, also widely known as male pattern baldness or female pattern hair loss.
The global picture of hormonal hair loss is dominated by Androgenic Alopecia symptoms, with an overwhelming majority of hair loss cases being attributed to this condition. In fact, it accounts for over 95% of instances in men and 68% in women, underlining its widespread prevalence.
The manifestations of Androgenic Alopecia are unique and can serve as identifying features. In men, typical signs may include a receding hairline, thinning hair, and balding, often at the crown of the head. Women, however, experience this condition differently. While it’s rare for women to go fully bald as some men do, Androgenic Alopecia in women usually results in progressive thinning and weakening of the hair strands. This leads to visibly less dense and less healthy hair, a change that becomes increasingly evident with age.
Androgenic Alopecia is not a static condition; it’s a progressive one. If not addressed in time, the resulting hair loss can become permanent. So, if you’re noticing signs of hair loss, don’t push your concerns aside. Remember, it’s never too early to act, but it can be too late. Set up a confidential consultation with a qualified hair expert without delay. The sooner you address your hair fall, the more options you’ll have to manage it and mitigate its impact.
Alopecia Areata
The hair fall reasons why Androgenic or Androgenetic Alopecia causes still remain something of a mystery. However, significant strides have been made in understanding how this type of hair loss takes place and, importantly, how to treat it.
Remember, Androgenic or Androgenetic Alopecia is a progressive condition that can continue to worsen if not addressed. If untreated, the hair loss could potentially become permanent. Therefore, if you’re concerned about your hormonal hair loss, don’t wait for it to reach a point of no return. Reach out to a qualified hair expert as soon as possible, and take control of your hair loss journey.
Alopecia Areata is where the body’s immune system prompts hair to fall out in patches or specific areas. The precise trigger for Alopecia Areata causes remains a mystery, but a common theory among scientists and healthcare professionals suggests it might be linked to stress.
In instances of Alopecia Areata, the hair follicles, which are the roots where hair growth begins, in the affected areas go into a dormant or inactive stage. After this period, the hair begins to regrow. This cycle of hair loss and regrowth can recur several times throughout a person’s life, often beginning in adolescence. In some cases, if a hair follicle stays inactive for an extended period, it may deteriorate to a point where it no longer functions, causing permanent damage. Therefore, seeking medical advice and hair loss treatment promptly to stimulate the follicles and promote hair regrowth is essential.
In rare cases, Alopecia Areata can progress to a more severe form. This severe form, known as Alopecia Totalis, involves the loss of all hair on the scalp. In the most extreme cases, it can extend to cause loss of all body hair, a condition known as Alopecia Universalis.
The latest data shows that Alopecia Areata affects about 1.7% of the population at some point in their lives. It’s important to mention that many individuals dealing with Alopecia Areata may also experience Androgenic or Androgenetic Alopecia, a genetic hair loss condition commonly known as male or female pattern baldness.
If you’re unsure about your hair loss or believe you might be experiencing symptoms of Alopecia Areata, our team is here to help. Don’t hesitate to contact us; we would be delighted to arrange a confidential consultation with a qualified hair expert. Together, we can navigate the journey to understanding and managing your hair loss.
Cicatricial Alopecia
Cicatricial Alopecia, commonly referred to as Scarring Alopecia, encompasses a rare and diverse group of hair loss disorders. What sets this type apart from other forms of hair loss is its destructive nature: it targets and eradicates the hair follicles - the very roots where hair growth begins. This destruction leaves scars in its wake, resulting in permanent hair loss.
Cicatricial Alopecia doesn’t discriminate - it can affect both men and women. Its manifestation also varies widely, meaning no two cases may present in the same way. There are two primary categories of Cicatricial Alopecia: primary and secondary.
Primary Cicatricial Alopecia is where the hair follicle is the main target of the destructive process. The hormonal hair loss starts small at the level of the follicles, which are progressively replaced by scar tissue. This can sometimes cause extreme symptoms, such as rapid hair fall accompanied by severe irritation, burning sensations, and even pain. But it’s not always this obvious. For some, it can manifest subtly, with hair loss occurring gradually and without noticeable symptoms.
Secondary Cicatricial Alopecia, on the other hand, is not a direct attack on the hair follicle but a byproduct of an external injury or a separate inflammatory condition affecting the skin, such as severe burns, infections, or tumours. The hair loss occurs in the skin area affected by the injury or condition. This can also be a swift or gradual process, depending on the underlying causes of hair loss and its progression.
The variable nature of Cicatricial Alopecia can make it difficult to identify, but early diagnosis and hair loss treatment can potentially mitigate its effects. If you’re concerned about hair loss or unsure of what you’re experiencing, our team is here to help. Contact us to set up a confidential consultation with a qualified hair expert. Together, we can help you understand and navigate your hair loss journey.
Traction Alopecia
Traction Alopecia is a unique type of hair loss that arises from prolonged, excessive pulling or tension on the hair. This condition is particularly common among individuals who consistently style their hair in ways that apply stress to the hair follicles - think tight ponytails, braids, or cornrows. However, it can also emerge due to rigorous brushing, over-styling, frequent use of heat and harsh chemical treatments, or just general rough handling of the scalp and hair.
Under normal circumstances, occasional pulling or tension wouldn’t cause permanent damage to the hair. But Traction Alopecia isn’t about the occasional pull or strain. It’s about sustained, excessive pulling that gradually weakens the hair follicle, the root where hair growth begins. Over time, this persistent tension can cause the follicle to deteriorate to a point where it no longer produces hair, much like what happens in Trichotillomania Alopecia.
This is why it’s vital to recognise and address Traction Alopecia before it progresses to a stage of permanent hair loss. The hairstyles, habits, and haircare routines that lead to Traction Alopecia can often be modified to reduce stress on the hair and scalp. Changing these practices can help mitigate the condition and promote regrowth.
But remember, taking action early is the key. If you’re noticing hair thinning or loss and suspect it could be due to Traction Alopecia, don’t delay seeking help. Reach out to a qualified hair expert who can guide you in managing this condition, helping you regain the health of your hair and the confidence that comes with it.
Telogen Effluvium
Telogen Effluvium is a known hair loss condition often triggered by a significant stressor or shock to the body. This can include severe emotional stress, major surgery, serious illness, drastic weight loss, or even childbirth. The impact of these events can push a larger than usual number of hair follicles into the resting phase in a hair growth cycle, known as the telogen phase.
Our hair growth cycle typically ensures a balanced number of hairs in each stage—growth, transition, and rest. However, in the case of Telogen Effluvium, this balance is disrupted. About two to three months following the stressful event, when these hairs in the telogen phase begin to shed, it results in noticeably increased hair loss and thinning.
Symptoms of Telogen Effluvium include a general thinning of hair across the scalp rather than specific bald spots. The hair on the top of the scalp often thins more than it does at the sides and back of the scalp. The hair loss can be more severe in some areas of the scalp than others. The good news is Telogen Effluvium is usually temporary, and the normal hair growth cycle often resumes after the body has had time to recover from the stressor.
However, dealing with this sudden hair loss can be distressing. If you suspect you may be experiencing Telogen Effluvium, don’t hesitate to contact a qualified hair expert. They can diagnose properly, guide you through understanding your condition, and suggest effective hair loss treatment strategies.
Remember, the sooner you seek assistance, the better your chances are for managing your hair loss effectively and supporting your hair’s journey back to a healthy growth cycle.
Thyroid Conditions
Hair loss can commonly be a symptom of underlying health conditions, such as thyroid disorders. Specifically, individuals diagnosed with Hypothyroidism, an underactive thyroid condition, and Hyperthyroidism, an overactive thyroid condition, are known to experience hair loss. Moreover, certain medications used to treat thyroid problems may also have hair loss as a potential side effect.
Each of these thyroid conditions manifests differently when it comes to hair loss. Hypothyroidism is typically associated with hair thinning, primarily at the front of the scalp and the eyebrows. On the other hand, Hyperthyroidism often results in a more diffuse thinning of hair, usually noticeable on the top of the head.
Dealing with hair loss linked to medical conditions like these requires a comprehensive approach. It’s crucial to get a proper medical diagnosis to pinpoint the causes of hair loss causes. This may include blood tests and diagnostic procedures to ensure you receive the appropriate hair loss treatment.
However, don’t let fear or uncertainty delay your action. If you’re experiencing hair loss and suspect it could be linked to a medical condition such as a thyroid disorder, seek help as soon as possible. Reach out to a qualified hair expert who can guide you through this process and connect you with the appropriate medical professionals if necessary. Addressing your concerns promptly can pave the way for effective treatments and solutions, preventing permanent hair loss.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Hair loss can be a side effect for women battling Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, commonly known as PCOS. This health condition often leads to a hormonal imbalance in the body known as hyperandrogenism, where the body produces an excess of male sex hormones. As these hormones can interfere with the normal hair growth cycle, PCOS can trigger the onset of Androgenic Alopecia, a prevalent hair loss condition.
Androgenic Alopecia is characterised by thinning and miniaturisation of hair strands, where the diameter and length of the hair follicle reduce over time. Additionally, this condition can slow down the rate of new hair growth, causing a noticeable decrease in hair density and coverage over time.
Dealing with PCOS and its effects on your hair can feel daunting, but remember, you’re not alone. If you’re noticing hair loss and suspect it could be related to PCOS, don’t hesitate to seek help. Reach out to a qualified hair expert at your earliest convenience. They can guide you through understanding your condition, help you explore suitable treatment options, and provide support as you navigate this journey. Remember, the earlier you take action against hair loss, the more effectively it can be managed.
Menopause
Hair loss can often be an unexpected and distressing symptom of menopause for many women. As the body undergoes significant hormonal shifts during this time, these changes can have an impact on the hair growth cycle, leading to increased hair shedding and noticeable thinning.
During menopause, estrogen and progesterone levels - hormones that help hair grow and stay on the head for longer - decrease significantly. Concurrently, the level of androgens, or male hormones, can increase. This hormonal imbalance can trigger hair loss and even lead to the onset of Androgenic Alopecia, a common condition that results in progressive thinning and weakening of hair strands.
Androgenic Alopecia during menopause is often characterised by a noticeable reduction in hair density, miniaturisation of hair follicles, and a slowed rate of hair growth. This can translate to an overall decrease in the volume and coverage of hair over time.
Dealing with menopausal hair loss can feel isolating, but remember you’re not alone in this experience. If you notice hair loss as you transition through menopause, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. Reach out to a qualified hair expert who can guide you through the treatment, helping you understand your hair loss and explore potential treatment options.
Remember, it’s crucial to act early in addressing hair loss. The sooner you begin exploring treatments and modifications, the better the chances are for managing hair loss effectively and maintaining your confidence throughout this transition period.
Postpartum Alopecia
Postpartum hair loss, aka postpartum alopecia, is a common phenomenon experienced by many women following childbirth. The significant hormonal changes that occur in pregnancy and after delivery can often impact the hair growth cycle, resulting in increased hair shedding and noticeable thinning in the months following the birth of a baby.
During pregnancy, elevated estrogen levels prolong hair’s growing phase, resulting in less shedding and denser, fuller hair. However, these estrogen levels drop rapidly after delivery, causing more hair follicles to enter the shedding phase. This sudden shift can lead to what feels like excessive hair loss but is often just a return to the normal hair growth cycle.
Postpartum hair loss typically begins a few months after childbirth and can continue for up to a year. While it can be quite shocking, especially given the amount of hair that can be lost in a short period, it’s important to note that this type of hair loss is usually temporary. In most cases, the hair returns to its normal growth cycle and density within a year of childbirth.
If you’re experiencing postpartum hair loss and it’s causing you distress, don’t hesitate to seek help. Contact a qualified hair expert who can guide you through this transition period, providing you with advice and potential solutions to manage this temporary hair loss.
Remember, acting early is the key. Being proactive in managing your hair health during this time can help minimise the impact of postpartum hair loss, ensuring that you can focus on the joys of new motherhood without additional stress.
Trichotillomania
Trichotillomania is a behavioural condition characterised by the compulsive urge to pull one’s own hair. This can occur in any part of the body where hair grows, but it most commonly affects the scalp, Eyebrows, and eyelashes. Individuals who struggle with this disorder often do so unconsciously, unaware of their actions until the resulting hair loss becomes noticeable. This condition is not uncommon and has been particularly observed among students under the stress of studying for exams.
The process of continually pulling at one’s hair can cause a damaging impact on the hair follicles over time. Similar to Traction Alopecia, where excessive pulling or tension on the hair results in loss, Trichotillomania can cause one’s hair follicles to weaken and, if the behaviour persists, can eventually lead to permanent hair loss.
It’s important to recognise that Trichotillomania is not just about hair loss; it’s a mental health condition often linked to anxiety and stress. As such, it’s crucial to approach this holistically, addressing both the physical symptoms and underlying psychological triggers.
If you’re dealing with hair loss and suspect that Trichotillomania could be the cause, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. Contact a qualified hair expert who can provide an accurate diagnosis and guide you toward appropriate treatment options, including behavioural therapy or medication.
Remember, it’s crucial to act promptly when dealing with hair loss. The earlier you seek help, the greater your chances are for managing the condition effectively, preserving your hair, and improving your overall well-being.
