Hair loss. It’s complicated. But KB Dermatology is here to help.

Causes, Types, and Treatment Options

Hair loss is extremely common and can affect people of all ages and genders. While losing some hair each day is normal, noticeable thinning or shedding can be distressing to most people. So what’s the good news? Many types of hair loss are treatable, especially when evaluated by a dermatologist and addressed early.

It is normal to lose 50–100 hairs per day as part of the natural hair growth cycle. However, it is important to see a dermatologist for hair loss for the following concerns:

• when hair seems thinner overall

• you notice widening parts or a receding hairline

• you are losing large clumps of hair

• clear bald patches have begun to appear

• your scalp feels tender or inflamed and you feel you are losing hair because of this

Some common types of hair loss treated at KB Dermatology

1. Androgenetic alopecia (male or female pattern hair loss)

This is the most common cause of hair loss. It affects both men and women, and is often genetic and progressive. It can start as early as late teenage years, but most often is noticed in the 4th to 5th decade of life. Men may notice receding temples or crown thinning, and women often experience diffuse thinning along the part and recession of the frontal hairline.

2. Telogen effluvium

Telogen effluvium is characterized by sudden and diffuse hair shedding. It is often triggered by illness, surgery, childbirth, lab anomalies, weight loss, certain medications or emotional stressors. It usually starts anywhere from 2-4 months after the triggering cause. The good news is that this is often temporary, and the hair will most often regrow after the underlying cause is addressed. The better news is that many treatment options exist.

3. Alopecia Areata

Alopecia areata is an autoimmune condition that is characteried by distinct smooth round patches of hair loss. It can affect many parts of the body, including the scalp, eyelashes, eyebrows, beard and even the body. There are many treatment options including injections and oral medications, such as JAK inhibitors, depending on the severity.

4. Scarring Alopecia

Scarring alopecia are less common but are more important to diagnose early on to avoid permanent loss. Scarring alopecias have inflammation that can permanently damage the hair follicles, leading to scarring and inhibition of regrowth. Often times, patient complain of itching, burning or scalp tenderness. Early diagnosis is critical to prevent permanent hair loss.

Treatment options for hair loss at KB Dermatology include

• topical medications

• oral medications such as minoxidil, JAK inhibitors

• anti-inflammatory treatments

• nutritional guidance and supplements

• procedures such as PRP (platelet rich plasma)

• long-term monitoring and support

Not every treatment is right for every patient. Personalized care matters. KB Dermatology is here to help.