Understanding the Different Types of Alopecia

Hair loss affects millions worldwide, but not all forms of hair loss are the same. From androgenetic alopecia to scarring alopecia, the different types of alopecia each require personalized evaluation and treatment. Below, we explore the major forms of alopecia, their causes, symptoms, prevalence, and the most effective ways to treat them.

Androgenetic Alopecia (Common Baldness)

Also Known As:

Male or female pattern baldness.

Symptoms:

Androgenetic alopecia causes gradual hair thinning that usually starts at the temples, crown, or frontal hairline in men. In women, it tends to affect the top of the scalp while preserving the frontal line.

Prevalence:

This hereditary condition affects nearly half of all men by age 50 and about 20% of postmenopausal women.

Causes:

This form of alopecia is linked to the body’s inability to neutralize male hormones. Hair follicles genetically sensitive to these hormones shrink and go through shorter growth cycles. Excess sebum production may also restrict blood flow to the roots, accelerating hair loss.

Possible Treatments:

While there is no definitive cure, treatments can slow progression and stimulate regrowth. Options include:

• Minoxidil or finasteride for hormone regulation
• PRP therapy, microneedling, or mesotherapy to reactivate follicles
• Laser therapy to boost blood circulation
• Hair transplant surgery or scalp micropigmentation for advanced cases

Telogen Effluvium

Also Known As:

Diffuse alopecia or non-pattern hair loss.

Symptoms:

Telogen effluvium results in sudden, excessive shedding across the scalp. People often report losing handfuls of hair at once. However, this condition is temporary and usually resolves within 2 to 4 months.

Prevalence:

It is the second most common type of alopecia in women, although men are also affected.

Causes:

Triggered by a temporary disruption of the hair cycle, this condition often follows:

• High-stress events
• Childbirth, miscarriage, or abortion
• Surgery under general anesthesia
• Severe infection or illness
• Emotional trauma
• Crash diets or sudden weight loss

Possible Treatments:

Recovery is likely, especially with early intervention. Treatments include:

• PRP injections, mesotherapy, or microneedling
• Laser therapy to improve blood flow
• Nutritional support and psychological counseling

Scarring Alopecia

Symptoms:

A smooth, shiny scar forms on the scalp, where hair can no longer grow.

Prevalence:

This form is relatively common and can affect individuals of any age or gender.

Causes:

Scarring alopecia results from permanent follicle damage due to:

• Accidents or burns
• Radiotherapy to the scalp
• Chronic inflammation from conditions like seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis, lupus, or frontal fibrosing alopecia

Possible Treatments:

Since follicles are permanently destroyed, hair regrowth is not possible. Still, cosmetic solutions can restore appearance:

• Hair transplantation (in suitable cases)
• Scalp micropigmentation to visually densify the area

Alopecia Areata (Patchy Hair Loss)

Also Known As:

Patch alopecia.

Symptoms:

Alopecia areata appears as sudden bald patches on the scalp. It can be limited to a few areas or become severe, leading to full scalp hair loss within hours.

In 80% of cases, hair regrows within 6 to 12 months. However, in others, it may take years.

Prevalence:

Affects approximately 0.1% of the population. It often begins in childhood and typically appears before the age of 40.

Causes:

This is an autoimmune disorder, where the body mistakenly targets hair follicles. Triggers include:

• Intense stress
• Viral infections
• Hormonal shifts

Fortunately, stem cells remain intact, preserving the potential for regrowth.

Possible Treatments:

There is no standard treatment, but doctors may prescribe:

• Topical minoxidil
• Corticosteroids (like triamcinolone acetonide)
• Psychological support for emotional resilience

Traction Alopecia

Also Known As:

Bun alopecia or hairstyle-induced hair loss.

Symptoms:

Traction alopecia involves gradual hair loss at the hairline, temples, or across the scalp. Warning signs include:

• Scalp redness
• Itching
• Hair thinning

Prevalence:

Common among women—particularly Black women—due to certain hairstyling practices.

Causes:

This condition results from repeated tension on the scalp, due to:

• Tight buns or ponytails
• Braids, cornrows, or heavy weaves
• Extensions and chemical relaxers

Left untreated, it can lead to permanent follicle damage and hairline recession.

Treatments:

In early stages, simply changing hairstyling habits can stop progression. In advanced cases:

• Hair transplants or
• Scalp micropigmentation are the only viable options to restore density

Trichotillomania in Adults

Symptoms:

Trichotillomania leads to irregular hair loss across the scalp, resulting in visible bald patches.

Prevalence:

While it often starts in childhood or adolescence, the disorder can persist into adulthood.

Causes:

This is a compulsive behavior where individuals repeatedly pull out their hair. It weakens the hair root and accelerates the exhaustion of the hair’s growth potential.

Treatments:

• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or psychological counseling is essential
• In cases of permanent damage, hair transplantation or scalp micropigmentation may be needed

Final Thoughts on the Different Types of Alopecia

From hormonal imbalances to autoimmune disorders and psychological triggers, the different types of alopecia each have unique causes and solutions. Understanding your specific condition is the first step toward effective hair restoration.

Whether you’re facing temporary shedding or irreversible follicle damage, consult a scalp specialist to receive a customized treatment plan. With the right intervention, hair health can often be improved—both physically and emotionally.