Hair loss, also known as alopecia, can affect people of all ages and backgrounds. There are eight main types of hair loss, each with its own characteristics and causes. Despite being common, many cases are often reversible with proper treatment and care. If you’re dealing with hair loss, talking to a healthcare professional can help figure out the type and come up with a plan that works for you.
ANDROGENIC ALOPECIA
Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is a common type of hair loss caused by genetics and androgen hormones.
AGA is the most prevalent type of hair loss, affecting approximately 80% of men and 40% of women.
This condition mainly affects the upper part of the scalp, including the front, middle, and crown areas.
ALOPECIA AREATA
Alopecia areata is an autoimmune disorder that causes sudden hair loss. It can make people lose hair in patches on their scalp, eyebrows, beard, and rarely other body parts.
Women are more likely to be affected from this condition compared to men.
There are different types of alopecia areata, and the cause of it is unknown.
ALOPECIA UNIVERSALIS
Alopecia Universalis is an extremely rare autoimmune disease that causes the complete loss of all body hair. It affects about 0.03% of the world’s human population.
Although it is an autoimmune disease, it only attacks the hair follicles. Therefore it doesn’t affect any other body function.
While there’s no cure yet, effective management methods exist.
ALOPECIA TOTALIS
Alopecia totalis is an autoimmune disease that causes entire scalp hair loss.
It starts with bald spots and progresses over time to complete baldness.
It affects both men and women, typically before the age of 30. However, it affects women more.
Although there’s no cure, there are treatments like corticosteroids that can help.
TRACTION ALOPECIA
Traction alopecia, aka tension alopecia, is caused by consistent tension on the hair. It can happen if you consistently pull or style your hair in ways that strain the scalp and hair roots.
This condition is not genetic, and the primary factors causing it include certain hairstyles such as tight braids or hair extensions.
Symptoms can progress from mild thinning to permanent hair loss which can lead to scarring alopecia.
TRICHOTILLOMANIA
Trichotillomania is a hair-pulling disorder. Patients get triggered after an urge to pull hair
It’s categorized into two types: Automatic trichotillomania (unintentional) and Focused trichotillomania (conscious).
Women are more susceptible and make 80-90% of adult cases.
Trichotillomania can really impact how a person looks and how they feel, so it’s important to get a professional opinion.
TINEA CAPITIS
Tinea Capitis, also known as ringworm of the scalp, is a contagious fungal infection that mostly affects kids aged 3 to 14.
It spreads through direct contact, sharing personal items, or exposure to fungal spores.
Luckily, it’s treatable with antifungal medicine, usually taken for 1 to 3 months. Tinea capitis requires proper attention for a complete recovery.
TELOGEN EFFLUVIUM
Telogen effluvium (T.E.) is a temporary hair loss condition.
It’s often triggered by severe stress, trauma, or post-trauma, and is neither contagious nor hereditary. It interrupts the resting phase of the normal hair growth cycle.
Among the common symptoms of T.E. are hair thinning and hair loss, affecting different parts of the scalp and body.
