Hair Loss Information
This section discusses the causes, classification, and diagnosis of hair loss in men and women. For information on medical treatments and hair transplantation, click on their respective sections.
Hair Loss in Men
The diagnosis of hair loss, also known as androgenetic alopecia, in men is generally straightforward. It is made by observing a “patterned” distribution of hair loss (i.e. baldness that affects the front, top, and crown) and by noting the presence of miniaturized hair in the areas of thinning. Miniaturization, the progressive decrease in hair shaft diameter and length, can be identified using an instrument called a densitometer and is seen only in genetic balding. The diagnosis of male pattern hair loss is supported by the progression of the hair loss according to a recognizable pattern and by a history of baldness in the family, although a family history is not always present.
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Hair Loss in Women
In women, the diagnosis of hair loss is more complex, as the most common presentation of balding, a diffuse pattern, can have a variety of non-androgenetic causes. These may include pregnancy, gynecologic problems, birth control pills, and thyroid disease. Because underlying medical conditions can produce hair loss that closely mimics the diffuse pattern seen in genetic hair loss, a careful diagnostic evaluation by a doctor is particularly important for female patients.
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Hair Loss FAQ, Myths & More
Further explore the topic of hair and hair loss in this section. Here you will find more discussion and details on the function and anatomy of hair, hair growth, the debunking of hair loss myths, answers to frequently asked questions on hair loss, a hair loss glossary, the psychology of baldness, the fun side of hair, and more.
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