There are many different types of hair loss you can experience in your lifetime. From genetics to stress related hair loss, the cause impacts how the condition should be treated.

A recent poll in the United States found that dermatologists predominantly treat three main types of hair loss: Androgenetic Alopecia, Alopecia Areata, and Scarring Alopecia. Here, we look at these types of hair loss, shedding light on their characteristics, symptoms, and treatment options.

Androgenetic Alopecia

Androgenetic alopecia, commonly referred to as male or female pattern baldness, is the most widespread type of hair loss. It is primarily influenced by genetics and hormones.

Men with this condition often experience receding hairlines and thinning on the crown, whereas women may notice a widening of the parting or generalised thinning. There is no cure for Androgenetic Alopecia, but there are effective treatments to help manage and slow down the condition.

Treatments can range from topical medications like Minoxidil to surgical interventions such as hair transplantation. However, it’s crucial to manage expectations, as this type of hair loss is often progressive and can’t be entirely reversed.

Alopecia Areata

Alopecia areata is an autoimmune condition where the immune system mistakenly targets hair follicles, resulting in hair loss. This type of alopecia often presents as well-defined, round bald patches on the scalp. Although it can affect people of all ages, it often starts in childhood.

Treatments may include corticosteroid creams, injections, or oral medications to suppress the immune response. While the hair may regrow, relapses are common, making ongoing treatment and monitoring essential.

Like Androgenetic Alopecia, this condition doesn’t have a cure.

Scarring Alopecia

Although less common, Scarring Alopecia leads to permanent hair loss. It causes inflammation that destroys the hair follicles, replacing them with scar tissue.

Scarring alopecia can result from various causes, including diseases, burns, or infections. Since the hair follicles are destroyed, the condition is generally irreversible, but treatments can halt the progression.

Anti-inflammatory medications, antibiotics, or surgical interventions like skin grafts are often used to manage symptoms and prevent further damage.

Understanding the type of hair loss that you’re experiencing is the first step toward effective treatment. A proper diagnosis will allow for tailored treatments that address the root cause of the condition. If you’re dealing with any form of hair loss, it’s essential to consult a specialist who can provide expert advice tailored to your specific needs.

If you are experiencing hair loss, schedule an appointment with a dermatologist that specialises in hair loss and scalp conditions.

For many patients, alopecia areata is more than just a cosmetic concern. While it’s long been suspected that hair loss may be linked to depression, a new study has confirmed the connection.

According to a recent study, a significant number of patients dealing with hair loss also experience symptoms of depression. In this blog, we’ll explore the latest study and the importance of addressing both the physical and mental health aspects of hair loss.

More Than Third of Alopecia Areata Patients Have Symptoms of Depression

The latest study into the mental health aspects of hair loss revealed that between 7-17% of patients suffer with depressive or anxiety disorders. More than a third also present with mental health symptoms.

This new research builds upon a 2021 study that first uncovered a connection between hair loss and depression. However, the latest study takes a more comprehensive look at the link, emphasising its bidirectional nature: not only can depression lead to hair loss, but hair loss can also contribute to depression.

More than six million people were included in the study. Those diagnosed with major depressive disorder had a staggering 90% increased risk of developing hair loss. Those experiencing hair loss were found to have a 34% increased risk of developing major depressive disorder.

The implications of these findings are profound, suggesting that hair loss and mental health are deeply intertwined. It highlights the need for medical professionals to consider both physical and emotional well-being when treating patients with alopecia areata, as well as a broader understanding of the complex interplay between appearance and mental health.

What is Alopecia Areata?

Alopecia areata is a medical condition that causes hair to fall out in small patches. Over time, these patches may connect and become more noticeable, but the overall impact varies greatly among patients. It occurs when the immune system mistakenly targets and attacks the hair follicles, leading to hair loss.

While alopecia areata can affect anyone, it most commonly develops during childhood or the teenage years. Around half of those who experience the condition see their hair regrow within 12 months, without needing any specific treatment.

The nature of hair regrowth can be unpredictable. For some, the hair may grow back permanently. Others might find themselves in a cycle where the hair regrows only to fall out again. This unpredictable pattern of hair loss and regrowth might continue for years.

Treating the Physical and Mental Symptoms of Hair Loss

When it comes to hair loss, it’s more than just the physical appearance that’s affected; there’s a mental and emotional aspect too.

On the physical front, there are several avenues to explore. Over-the-counter treatments, like minoxidil, can be effective in promoting hair growth or slowing hair loss. However, always remember to consult with a dermatologist before diving into any treatment.

The emotional and mental side of hair loss also cannot be ignored. Many find solace in seeking counselling or therapy, where they can acquire coping strategies, and gain support in a safe environment. Joining support groups, both online and offline, can also provide a sense of community, as sharing experiences often lightens the burden.

A team of researchers from Northwestern University have announced an exciting discovery that could be a game-changer in the treatment of male pattern baldness. Scientists believe they’ve stumbled upon a promising method to trigger hair growth.

What they found is that as individuals age, the hair follicles become more rigid, which inhibits the growth of hair. This is somewhat like the way in which our joints may become less flexible with age, limiting our mobility.

The team suggests that by making hair follicles suppler, they might be induced to generate hair. Here we look at what the latest research uncovered and why it could prove to be the cure for male pattern baldness.

RNA Could Provide Cure for Baldness

In the recent study, researchers claim they have discovered a method to promote hair growth in mice. By making the stem cells more pliable, through the enhancement of the production of a microscopic RNA particle known as miR-205, which eases the rigidity of the cells, it triggers regrowth.

The team noted that when they altered the stem cells genetically to yield an increased amount of miR-205, there was hair growth observed in mice, irrespective of their age. The hair started to grow back in just 10 days in mice trials.

The method stimulates existing stem cells to grow hair. Many times, even though stem cells are present, they might not have the capability to produce hair.

Other Breakthroughs in Hair Loss Treatment

This latest development isn’t the only one to get excited about. There are also a handful of medications that are currently undergoing clinical trials which could potentially be good news for those who live with male pattern baldness.

There are also several established therapies that are safe, effective, and well-tolerated for promoting hair growth and combating hair loss, such as. Medications such as Finasteride, a DHT inhibitor, and Minoxidil, a medication that encourages hair growth.

What is Male Pattern Baldness?

Male pattern baldness, also known as androgenetic alopecia, is a common form of hair loss that occurs in men. This condition is characterised by the thinning of hair on the scalp, often resulting in a receding hairline and/or balding on the top of the head.

The condition is typically associated with a combination of genetic factors and the male hormone dihydrotestosterone (DHT). The sensitivity of hair follicles to DHT can cause them to shrink, which in turn shortens the lifespan of each hair follicle and eventually causes the hair to stop growing in certain areas.

While male pattern baldness can begin in the late teens to early twenties, it is most common in older men. The progression and pattern of hair loss can vary and there are treatments available. They include medication and surgical procedures that can slow down the hair loss or help to regrow hair in some cases.

It’s important to note that the effectiveness of these treatments can vary from person to person. To determine the best course of treatment to manage your hair loss, schedule an appointment with hair loss expert today.

Ground-breaking results from a clinical trial led by researchers at Yale University have given hope to adolescents suffering from alopecia areata – a condition causing abrupt and often significant hair loss.

Recognised as the second leading cause of hair loss, alopecia areata impacts an estimated 7 million people across the United States. It’s an autoimmune disease with transformative physical effects. The drug Ritlecitinib has emerged as a promising, and critically, a safe treatment option for young patients. Here we assess the significant findings of the recent study and current treatment options for Paediatric Alopecia Areata.

Understanding the Latest Study

The recent comprehensive study included a diverse group of 718 participants from 18 different countries, receiving care from 118 hospitals and clinics. Among these, over 100 were adolescents, all of whom had lost at least half of their scalp hair due to alopecia areata.

After taking Ritlecitinib for a period of 24 weeks, many participants reported either complete hair regrowth or a significant improvement. Prolonged use of the medication for an additional 24 weeks, led to further instances of hair regrowth amongst the patients.

The medication was favourably received by the patients throughout the study, showcasing its tolerability. Positive results were observed across all age demographics, including younger patients.

Now, an extended study investigating the long-term effectiveness of Ritlecitinib in treating childhood alopecia areata is underway.

What is Paediatric Alopecia Areata?

Paediatric alopecia areata is a condition characterised by sudden, patchy hair loss in children. This autoimmune disorder occurs when the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the hair follicles, leading to hair loss on the scalp, and sometimes other areas of the body.

Unlike adult alopecia areata, the onset in children can be more dramatic and distressing, potentially affecting their self-esteem and social interactions. It’s essential to understand that this condition doesn’t result from a lack of hygiene or diet but stems from a complex interplay of genetic and environmental factors.

The key takeaway here is that paediatric alopecia areata is not a result of something your child has done or a reflection of their overall health.

How is Paediatric Alopecia Areata Treated?

Treatment for Paediatric Alopecia Areata aims to promote hair regrowth and manage the psychological impact of hair loss. Treatment may depend on the child’s age, the extent of hair loss, and the child’s ability to tolerate it.

Corticosteroid creams or ointments are often the first line of treatment. They are applied directly to bald patches to stimulate hair growth. Other treatments may include corticosteroid injections, topical immunotherapy, or even oral medications. However, it’s crucial to remember that what works for one child may not work for another. Therefore, a personalised approach to treatment is critical.

If your child is experiencing unexplained hair loss, a dermatologist that specialising in conditions that affect the scalp and hair follicles is advised.

The menopause can trigger all kinds of unpleasant side effects. From mood swings to hot flushes, going through this dreaded milestone can have a significant impact on your health and wellbeing. One potential side effect many women aren’t prepared for, is hair loss.

Due to hormonal changes within the body, many women begin to experience either hair thinning or hair loss. Here, we address what causes hair loss during the menopause and how you can treat the problem.

The causes of menopausal hair loss

Hair loss and thinning are often attributed to the menopause. However, other factors such as genetics, stress, diet, and certain medical conditions, may also play a role.

Research indicates that hair, like the skin and other organs, is susceptible to ageing. For women, hair follicles begin to shrink in size around their mid-40s, resulting in increasingly finer hair with each passing year. The overall number of hair follicles decreases too, affecting both the scalp and body hair.

During the menopause, the decline in oestrogen – a hormone believed to promote hair growth as it keeps hair follicles in the anagen or growth stage for longer – may accelerate hair shrinkage. Various medications, including pain relievers, antidepressants, and blood pressure treatments, can also contribute to hair loss.

There is also a growing number of women undergoing hormone treatments like tamoxifen and aromatase inhibitors for breast cancer. These treatments are known to trigger hair loss as a side effect.

Some women find that synthetic forms of HRT exacerbate hair loss, while body-identical HRT typically encourages hair growth.

Can you prevent menopausal hair loss?

Hormonal hair loss can be reversed, and there are several ways to address it, particularly during menopause. Here’s some of the best ways to avoid menopausal hair loss and thinning:

Exercise regularly: Staying active improves overall health, circulation, and muscle tone. It also helps to manage menopausal symptoms such as bloating, mood swings, and sleep disturbances.

Drink more water: Keeping hydrated will combat dry skin and hair, as well as help flush toxins from the body. This alleviates symptoms like joint pain and constipation. Hydration is particularly effective at easing hot flashes and night sweats.

Reduce stress: Use activities like yoga or tai chi to reduce stress. They can also maintain overall health, as well as combat mood swings, anxiety, and depression caused by lower oestrogen levels.

Eating a healthy diet will also help to potentially prevent menopausal hair loss.

Treating menopause related hair loss

Factors such as diet, stress, and health conditions can impact hair growth, making it essential to identify the root cause of hair loss. Prolonged or severe thyroid issues can also cause hair loss. After a consultation with a specialist, and ruling out other underlying health conditions, you may explore both holistic and medical treatments.

Medical treatments may include Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT), Propecia, or Minoxidil, but keep in mind that their effects can vary among patients, and they must be prescribed by a medical professional.

HRT replenishes hormones that diminish during menopause, helping to alleviate some menopausal symptoms and promote hair growth. However, not all HRT therapies are hair-friendly, and some may worsen hair thinning.

Given that hair cells are among the fastest growing in the body, their nutritional demands are high, and even minor deficiencies can lead to hair loss. Therefore, maintaining a healthy and balanced diet is also crucial for preserving the health of your hair.

If you are worried about the effects the menopause is having on your hair, book a consultation with a hair specialist.