On average, the standard individual loses nearly 50 -100 strands of hair per day. However, for someone undergoing hair loss, this number might substantially increase. Hair loss, popularly known as alopecia, unfortunately affects millions of people worldwide. While hair shedding is a normal occurrence, an excessive amount can often be indicative of underlying health conditions. Hair loss may be temporary or permanent, and understanding its cause and obtaining a proper diagnosis is necessary for effective treatment. Hair loss is one of the most common reasons patients seek out dermatologic care. It can often prove to be distressing and challenging to manage without professional guidance. Beyond its physical effects, hair loss can also have a significant psychosocial impact, affecting self-esteem, confidence, and people’s overall well-being.
At Houston Dermatology Specialists, Dr. Christopher Downing and Dr. Joel Byrne specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of various forms of hair loss within a diverse set of patients in the greater Houston and Cypress area.
If you are experiencing excessive hair shedding or noticeable thinning, please call (713) 487-8233 or requesting a consultation online to schedule an evaluation.
Common Types of Hair Loss
Androgenetic Alopecia
Androgenetic alopecia, commonly known as male or female pattern baldness, is the most common form of hair loss. It is often hereditary and results from a combination of genetic and hormonal factors. In men, hair recession presents at the temples and crown, while in women, diffuse thinning occurs along the entirety of the scalp.
Alopecia Areata
Alopecia areata is an autoimmune condition that causes the body to attack its own hair follicles. The result often leads to sudden hair loss in isolated, circular patches and prevention of new hair growth. Overtime, this condition can evolve into alopecia totalis (complete hair loss of the scalp) and/or alopecia universalis (complete hair loss of the body). However, for most patients, alopecia areata is a self-limiting condition, with hair regrowth occurring spontaneously over time, even without treatment.
Telogen Effluvium
Telogen effluvium is hair loss that is caused temporarily, usually by stress, illness, hormonal factors, or medication. It occurs when a large number of hair follicles enter the resting phase (telogen) prematurely, leading to increased shedding.
Traction Alopecia
Traction alopecia is caused by repeated tension on the hair from hairstyles like tight ponytails, braids, or extensions. Over time, constant pulling can damage the hair follicles, leading to thinning or bald spots, especially along the hairline
Scarring Alopecia (Cicatricial Alopecia)
Scarring alopecia refers to a group of hair loss disorders that cause permanent damage to hair follicles due to inflammation. This inflammation destroys hair growth and can trigger the formulation of scar tissue. Once the scar tissue is formulated, hair growth can no longer occur in the same area. Types of cicatricial alopecia include: Lichen planopilaris, frontal fibrosing alopecia, discoid lupus erythematosus, and folliculitis decalvans. All of which are conditions that induce damage to the hair follicles, leading to irreversible loss of hair and scarring on the scalp.
Hair loss can also prove to be an indicator of underlying health issues, such as thyroid disease or autoimmune disorders, which can contribute to the progression of one’s alopecia. Conditions like lupus, Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, and alopecia areata can affect hair growth and overall scalp health. In order to manage and evaluate these conditions, dermatologists typically conduct thorough assessments, ordering lab tests, and providing tailored treatment plans to address the hair loss and its potential underlying causes. Early intervention and appropriate medical care can help manage symptoms and assist to prevent further complications.
Treatments for Hair Loss
Treatment options depend on the type and severity of hair loss. Some common treatments include:
- Medications: FDA-approved treatments like minoxidil (topical and oral) and finasteride (topical and oral) can help slow hair loss and promote regrowth. Other oral medications such as doxycycline and hydroxychloroquine are often used to treat scarring alopecia.
- Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy: A cosmetic treatment that uses the patient’s own blood components to stimulate hair growth.
- Intralesional Kenalog Injections (ILK): Intralesional Kenalog injections are an effective treatment option for those who suffer with autoimmune disorders that directly attack the body’s hair follicle. These steroid injections incorporate a corticosteroid, such as triamcinolone acetonide, which works to slow inflammation and progression of hair loss. Injections are administered directly into affected areas where hair loss is present.
If you are concerned about hair loss and want to explore treatment options, please contact Houston Dermatology Specialists in Cypress at (713) 487-8233 or request a consultation online to schedule an evaluation with Dr. Downing or Dr. Byrne.
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