Alopecia means hair loss.

All forms of hair loss are considered alopecia. There are different types of hair loss (alopecia) conditions that can be diagnosed by a board certified dermatologist.

Alopecia areata: a common autoimmune disorder that causes hair loss. In this condition, the immune system mistakenly attacks the hair follicles, resulting in hair loss in patches. The term "alopecia" refers to hair loss, and "areata" means occurring in patches or localized areas.

Here are some key points about alopecia areata:

Patchy Hair Loss: The primary characteristic of alopecia areata is the appearance of round or oval-shaped patches of hair loss on the scalp or other areas of the body that have hair, such as the eyebrows, eyelashes, or beard. The affected areas are usually smooth and may have a slightly different texture or color than the surrounding hair.

Autoimmune Disorder: Alopecia areata is considered an autoimmune condition, which means that the immune system mistakenly targets and attacks the hair follicles as if they were foreign substances. The exact cause of this autoimmune response is not fully understood, but genetic and environmental factors are believed to play a role.

Triggers and Associations: Various factors may trigger or contribute to the development of alopecia areata, including genetic predisposition, stress, certain illnesses or infections, hormonal changes, and other autoimmune conditions like thyroid disorders or vitiligo.

Types of Alopecia Areata: Apart from the typical form that causes patchy hair loss, there are other variations of alopecia areata:

a. Alopecia Totalis: This form involves the complete loss of hair on the scalp.

b. Alopecia Universalis: This is the most extensive form, resulting in the loss of all body hair, including scalp hair, eyebrows, eyelashes, and even body hair.

c. Ophiasis Pattern: This specific pattern involves hair loss in a band-like shape along the sides and lower back of the scalp.

Treatment Options: There is no known cure for alopecia areata, but various treatment options may help stimulate hair regrowth or manage the condition:

a. Corticosteroids: Topical or injectable corticosteroids can be used to reduce inflammation and suppress the immune response in the affected areas.

b. JAK inhibitors: Topical or oral JAK inhibitors are the newest advance in alopecia areata treatment. You may be prescribed topical opzelura or oral Baricitinib (Olumiant®).

c. Minoxidil: This medication, available as a topical solution or oral tablet, can be used to promote hair regrowth in some cases of alopecia areata.

d. Wigs or Hairpieces: For individuals with extensive hair loss, wearing wigs, hairpieces, or scarves can be options to manage the appearance.

It's important to consult with a dermatologist or healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plan if you suspect you have alopecia areata.

Telogen effluvium: is a common form of temporary hair loss that occurs due to changes in the hair growth cycle. It is characterized by excessive shedding or thinning of hair, typically all over the scalp. Telogen effluvium is a disruption in the normal hair growth cycle.

Here are some key points about telogen effluvium:

Hair Growth Cycle: The hair growth cycle consists of three phases:

a. Anagen Phase: The active growth phase when hair follicles produce new hair.

b. Catagen Phase: A transitional phase when hair growth stops, and the hair follicle prepares for shedding.

c. Telogen Phase: The resting phase when the hair follicle remains inactive before shedding the hair and starting a new growth cycle.

Triggering Factors: Telogen effluvium occurs when there is a significant shift in the balance of hair follicles from the anagen phase to the telogen phase. This shift can be triggered by various factors, including:

a. Physical or Emotional Stress: A traumatic event, surgery, severe illness, emotional stress, or a major life change can disrupt the hair growth cycle.

b. Hormonal Changes: Hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy, childbirth, menopause, or thyroid disorders can contribute to telogen effluvium.

c. Nutritional Deficiencies: Inadequate intake of essential nutrients, such as iron, zinc, or vitamin D, can impact the hair growth cycle.

d. Medications: Certain medications, such as those used in chemotherapy, anticoagulants, beta-blockers, or retinoids, can trigger telogen effluvium.

e. Dietary Changes: Rapid weight loss, crash diets, or nutritional deficiencies can affect the hair growth cycle.

Symptoms and Duration: The primary symptom of telogen effluvium is excessive shedding of hair, often noticed during hair washing, brushing, or when running fingers through the hair. Unlike alopecia areata, telogen effluvium does not typically result in patchy hair loss. The condition is usually self-limiting, and hair growth resumes once the underlying triggering factor is resolved. The duration of telogen effluvium can vary from 3-6 months depending on the individual and the cause.

Diagnosis and Treatment: A dermatologist can diagnose telogen effluvium based on a physical examination, medical history, and sometimes blood tests to rule out other underlying causes. Since telogen effluvium is often self-resolving, treatment focuses on addressing the underlying cause and promoting healthy hair growth. This may include:

a. Stress Management: Identifying and managing sources of physical or emotional stress can help reduce the impact on the hair growth cycle.

b. Nutritional Support: Ensuring a balanced diet with adequate intake of essential nutrients necessary for healthy hair growth.

c. Medication Adjustment: If medication is the suspected cause, consulting with a healthcare professional about potential alternatives or adjustments may be beneficial.

d. Scalp Care: Gentle hair care practices, avoiding excessive heat styling or chemical treatments, and using mild shampoos can help minimize further hair damage.

Female pattern hair loss (FPHL) and male pattern hair loss (MPHL), also known as androgenetic alopecia, are the most common forms of hair loss in men and women, respectively. They are characterized by a gradual thinning of hair, primarily on the top and front of the scalp. Although the patterns and progression of hair loss differ between sexes, the underlying mechanism is similar.

Here are the key points about female and male pattern hair loss:

Female Pattern Hair Loss (FPHL):

Pattern: FPHL typically involves diffuse thinning of hair on the top of the scalp. The hairline is generally preserved, but the parting of the hair may widen.

Causes: FPHL is influenced by genetic factors and hormonal changes. An inherited sensitivity to the hormone dihydrotestosterone (DHT) causes miniaturization of hair follicles, resulting in thinner and shorter hair growth over time.

Onset: FPHL may start during or after menopause due to hormonal changes, but it can also begin in younger women.

Risk Factors: A family history of female pattern hair loss, hormonal imbalances (such as polycystic ovary syndrome), and certain medical conditions can increase the risk.

Treatment: Treatment options for FPHL include topical minoxidil (an over-the-counter medication that promotes hair growth), oral anti-androgen medications (prescribed in some cases), and hair transplantation for more advanced cases.

Male Pattern Hair Loss (MPHL):

Pattern: MPHL follows a distinct pattern characterized by a receding hairline and thinning on the crown of the scalp, forming an "M" shape. Eventually, the hair on the crown may completely disappear, leading to partial or complete baldness.

Causes: MPHL is also influenced by genetics and hormonal factors. DHT, a byproduct of testosterone, binds to hair follicles and leads to their miniaturization.

Onset: MPHL usually starts in adulthood, with the onset commonly occurring in the late teens to early 20s. The rate and extent of hair loss can vary among individuals.

Risk Factors: Family history is a significant risk factor for MPHL. Other factors like age, hormonal imbalances, and certain medications can contribute to the progression of hair loss.

Treatment: Treatment options for MPHL include topical minoxidil, oral finasteride (a prescription medication that blocks the conversion of testosterone to DHT), hair transplantation, and low-level laser therapy.

It's important to note that both FPHL and MPHL are chronic conditions, and the goal of treatment is usually to slow down the progression of hair loss, promote hair regrowth, and manage the appearance of thinning hair. Consulting with a healthcare professional or a dermatologist is advisable for a proper diagnosis, evaluation of the underlying causes, and discussion of appropriate treatment options based on individual circumstances.

Traction alopecia: is a type of hair loss caused by persistent pulling or tension on the hair over a prolonged period. It occurs when certain hairstyles or hair practices exert excessive force on the hair follicles, leading to damage and eventual hair loss. Traction alopecia is considered a form of acquired hair loss and is typically preventable.

Once the hair follicles are damaged, your hair cannot grow back, leading to permanent hair loss.

Here are the key points about traction alopecia:

Causes: Traction alopecia is commonly caused by certain hairstyles or hair practices that involve pulling or tension on the hair. Examples include tight ponytails, braids, cornrows, dreadlocks, hair weaves, hair extensions, and excessive use of hair rollers, curling irons, or hot styling tools. Continuous and repetitive stress on the hair follicles can lead to inflammation and damage.

Hair Loss Patterns: The hair loss pattern in traction alopecia depends on the specific hairstyles and areas subjected to tension. Commonly affected areas include the hairline, temples, and sides of the scalp. Initially, hair loss may appear as thinning, breakage, or shortening of the hair in the affected areas. If the tension persists, it can result in more severe hair loss.

Risk Factors: Individuals who regularly engage in hairstyles or practices that put tension on the hair are at a higher risk of developing traction alopecia. This condition can affect people of any age, gender, or hair type.

Prevention and Treatment:

Avoiding Tension Hairstyles: It is advisable to avoid hairstyles that pull tightly on the hair and put excessive stress on the hair follicles. Opt for looser hairstyles and avoid using accessories or tools that can cause damage.

Gentle Hair Care: Handle the hair with care and avoid excessive combing, brushing, or manipulation. Use wide-toothed combs or brushes with soft bristles.

Alternating Hairstyles: Give the hair time to rest by alternating hairstyles and avoiding continuous tension on the same areas.

Treatment Options: If traction alopecia has already developed, the condition may be reversible if caught early. Treatment options include discontinuing the causative hairstyles, using topical minoxidil to stimulate hair regrowth, and practicing good hair care habits. In severe cases, hair transplant surgery may be considered.

It's important to note that if traction alopecia is left untreated for an extended period, it can lead to permanent hair loss. Consulting with a dermatologist or a healthcare professional is advisable for an accurate diagnosis, prevention strategies, and appropriate treatment options based on individual circumstances.

Lichen planopilaris (LPP) and frontal fibrosing alopecia (FFA) : are two related forms of scarring hair loss that primarily affect the scalp. They are considered autoimmune conditions and can lead to permanent hair loss if left untreated. Here are the key points about lichen planopilaris and frontal fibrosing alopecia:

Lichen Planopilaris (LPP):

LPP is a variant of lichen planus, an inflammatory skin condition that can affect various areas of the body.

Hair Loss Patterns: LPP typically presents as patchy hair loss, often characterized by areas of hair follicle inflammation and scarring. The affected areas may show redness, scaling, and follicular plugging.

Symptoms: In addition to hair loss, LPP can cause itching, burning, and pain on the scalp. It may also affect other hair-bearing areas like the eyebrows, eyelashes, and body hair.

Progression: LPP can progress slowly over months or years, resulting in irreversible hair loss and scarring of the affected areas.

Treatment: Treatment for LPP focuses on managing inflammation and preventing further hair loss. This may involve the use of topical or systemic corticosteroids, topical calcineurin inhibitors, oral medications, and other immune-modulating therapies. Close monitoring by a dermatologist is essential to determine the most appropriate treatment approach for each individual.

Frontal Fibrosing Alopecia (FFA):

FFA is considered a variant of lichen planopilaris, primarily affecting the frontal hairline and eyebrows.

Hair Loss Patterns: FFA typically presents as a progressive recession of the frontal hairline. It can extend backward and may also affect the temples and eyebrows. The hair loss is often accompanied by inflammation, redness, and a band-like area of hair loss.

Symptoms: In addition to hair loss, FFA can cause itching, burning, and tenderness in the affected areas.

Progression: FFA is a chronic condition that tends to progress slowly over time, leading to irreversible hair loss and scarring.

Treatment: Treatment for FFA aims to slow down the progression of hair loss and manage associated symptoms. This may involve the use of topical or systemic corticosteroids, topical calcineurin inhibitors, oral medications, and other immune-modulating therapies. Early intervention is important to preserve hair follicles and prevent further scarring.

Both LPP and FFA are chronic conditions that require long-term management and monitoring by a dermatologist. Treatment approaches may vary depending on the individual and the severity of the condition. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment options based on individual circumstances.