A common issue that dermatologists in Orange County see is hair loss, also known as alopecia. There are a number of reasons for excessive loss of hair, but whatever the cause, hair loss can be incredibly distressing to individuals of both genders. It is possible to treat alopecia with a dermatologist.
Information You Need to Know About Alopecia
Some hair loss is to be expected, as it’s normal to lose approximately 100 strands each day. This loss isn’t a problem because hair is almost constantly in the growth stage is usually adds around a centimeter in length on a monthly basis. I
There are two types of alopecia. These are scarring and non-scarring. The scarring type cannot be reversed due to permanent hair follicle damage; however, the non-scarring kind can often be regrown. Non-scarring is actually more common than scarring, which is fortunate.
What You Can Do to Combat Excessive Hair Loss
There may be actions you can take that will slow, stop or reverse the process of your hair loss. If there is no apparent cause of your hair loss and you are experiencing fatigue, make an appointment to discuss the matter with your primary physician. Tests can be run for possible health related causes like:
- Low iron
- Thyroid issues
- Vitamin D level
- Reduced red blood cell count
If any of the tests return conclusive for abnormalities, problems can be treated with medication to return your hair to its former volume. Abrupt, widespread hair loss is known as telogen effluvium and is usually brought on due to an event like pregnancy, new medication, stress or illness. Discuss these possibilities with your doctor and rest assured that they can be reversed relatively easily.
It’s possible you are dealing with the most common and non-scarring type of alopecia. It’s called androgenetic alopecia (AGA), and it effects both men and women. With AGA, hair is most lost first around the temple and crown area in men, the front of the scalp for women. Rogaine is the first treatment of choice in these cases.
When to See Your OC Dermatologist
If your alopecia doesn’t fit any of these patterns, you should see a dermatologist. Other signs it’s time to consider a specialist include:
- Visible bald scalp patches
- Follicles appear scarred
- Scales, itching, redness or pain
- Hair loss on other areas of the body
The symptoms listed above may indicate scarring. Your dermatologist will discuss medical treatment options such as topical creams or pills. You may also wish to learn about types of hair replacement.
Call us at OC Skin Institute today for answers to your questions about alopecia.