Hair Loss Conditions
Alopecia
First, let's get some terminology out of the way. Alopecia just means "hair loss" from areas where hair usually grows. It isn't on its own a diagnosis and doesn't really help us figure out possible causes, it's just a descriptive term. There are many different types of alopecia, some that people are born with (congenital) and many more that develop later (acquired).
What Does Alopecia Look Like?
Asking what alopecia looks like is a bit like asking, "What do people look like?" The truth is, there is a vast spectrum of appearances among those of us affected by hair loss. Some individuals may appear to have luscious, long flowing locks, while others may have no hair at all anywhere on their body.
Alopecia ("hair loss") includes:
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Thinning Hair: This leads to a noticeable decrease in hair density and increasing scalp show
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Receding Hairlines: Particularly in the temporal region, as hair follicles are lost, the hairline can creep back
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Balding Patches: Patches of hair loss, which can vary in size and location.
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Complete Hair Loss in the head
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Total hair loss affecting the whole body
Alopecia can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, or background.
The Emotional Effects of Alopecia
The entire spectrum of alopecia conditions including full and partial hair loss can have a significant emotional impact and the psychological effects can be profound, regardless of the extent of hair loss. Sometimes a tiny amount of hair loss can have a massive impact on a person's well-being and should not be dismissed or minimized by others.
Alopecia changes appearances and in all it's forms needs understanding and compassion, including empathy from loved ones, friends, work colleagues, hairdressers, doctors and the wider community.
At Growth Factor Hair Clinic Dr Gwen Adey has experienced some of the emotional impacts of hair loss personally, as she is a hair loss sufferer herself. Everybody's experience is different though.
In 2025, we will have some new resources from our experienced Clinical Psychologist.
In the meantime, here is a great resource we highly recommend for advice on managing your emotional response to hair loss:
www.strongerminds.co.uk/how-to-cope-with-the-psychological-stress-of-hair-loss/
An Overview of Common Aquired Hair Loss Conditions
This page will try to give an overview of common acquired hair loss conditions, supported by scientific research.
For each condition, we will summarise an evaluation of the current evidence for the effectiveness of various therapies.
1. Androgenetic Alopecia
What is Androgenetic Alopecia?
Androgenetic Alopecia is the most common form of hair loss in both men and women. It is characterized by a gradual thinning of hair, often beginning at the temples and crown in men, and diffuse thinning across the scalp in women. This condition is primarily influenced by genetic factors and hormonal changes, particularly the effects of dihydrotestosterone (DHT) on hair follicles.
Treatment options to consider:
Minoxidil✔️ (see TrichoTest)
Microneedling ✔️
Mesotherapy ✔️
Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) ✔️
Psychological Therapy ✔️
Tests to consider:
TrichoTest
Blood Tests
2. Telogen Effluvium
Telogen Effluvium is a temporary hair loss condition that occurs when a significant number of hair follicles enter the resting phase prematurely. This can be triggered by stress, hormonal changes, illness, or certain medications. Individuals may notice increased hair shedding, often several months after the triggering event.
3. Alopecia Areata
Alopecia Areata is an autoimmune disorder that causes sudden hair loss in patches. The immune system mistakenly attacks hair follicles, leading to hair loss on the scalp and other areas of the body. While the exact cause is unknown, it can be associated with other autoimmune disorders.
Alopecia areata can in some cases progress to Alopecia Areata Totalis (complete loss of scalp hair) or Alopecia Areata Universalis (complete loss of all body hair).
4. Traction Alopecia
Traction Alopecia is caused by prolonged tension on hair follicles due to certain hairstyles, such as tight ponytails or braids. This condition is preventable and reversible if caught early, but prolonged tension can lead to permanent damage.
5. Hair Pulling Disorder (Trichotillomania)
Compulsive hair pulling can accompany anxiety. Sometimes co-exists with other alopecia condiitons.
6. Scarring Alopecias
Scarring alopecias, or cicatricial alopecias, involve the destruction of hair follicles and replacement with scar tissue. This can result from inflammatory skin conditions, infections, or injuries. Conditions such as Lichen Planopilaris and Frontal Fibrosing Alopecia fall into this category.