The Different Types of Hair Loss
Understanding the types of hair loss is the first step toward treating it. Read on for the most common causes, and see the American Academy of Dermatology’s guide to hair loss causes for more detail.
Androgenic Alopcia
Androgenetic alopecia affects people of all genders and is commonly referred to as “pattern hair loss.” It’s driven by hormonal changes, particularly sensitivity to dihydrotestosterone (DHT) and genetics.
Common signs:
Gradual thinning at the crown or hairline
Widening part
Shorter, finer hair over time
Treatment options:
Topical or oral minoxidil
Hormonal support (when appropriate, under medical guidance)
Low-level light therapy
Regenerative treatments such as PRP or stem cell therapy
Alopecia Areata
Cause: Autoimmune condition
Alopecia areata occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks hair follicles, resulting in patchy hair loss on the scalp, face, or body. The follicles remain alive, which means regrowth is possible.
Treatment options:
Topical or injected corticosteroids
Minoxidil
Light therapy
Immunotherapy (in more advanced cases)
Alopecia Totalis
Cause: Autoimmune disorder
- Alopecia totalis is a more advanced form of alopecia areata, resulting in complete scalp hair loss. It may or may not begin as patchy alopecia areata.Additional signs may include:
Eliminating tight styles
Gentle hair care practices
Early intervention to allow regrowth before follicles are permanently damaged
Tinea Capitis (Scalp Ringworm)
Cause: Fungal infection
Tinea capitis is a contagious fungal infection of the scalp that causes patchy hair loss, redness, inflammation, and sometimes scaling.
Treatment options:
Prescription oral antifungal medication
Medicated shampoos
Prompt treatment to prevent scarring
Trichotillomania
Cause: Mental health condition
Trichotillomania is characterized by a compulsive urge to pull out hair, often as a response to stress or anxiety.
Treatment options:
Behavioral therapy
Mental health support
Gentle hair restoration strategies once pulling behavior is addressed
Why Diagnosis Matters
Hair loss is not just cosmetic, it’s often a signal from the body. Treating the wrong type of hair loss can waste time, money, and energy. A professional assessment with a trichologist or dermatologist helps identify the root cause and create a plan that supports both scalp health and long-term regrowth where possible.
If you’re experiencing hair loss, early intervention makes a meaningful difference. If you would like to treat the symptoms of hair loss we can help you. We offer hair replacement services, such as mesh and meshless integration as well as scalp prosthesis and Calecim stem cell therapy treatments. Book a consultation to learn more.