UNDERSTANDING THE DIFFERENT TYPES OF HAIR LOSS

Alopecia is the general medical term for hair loss, which can come in different forms and severities.

Hair loss is a common concern for men, and the most prevalent form is male pattern baldness, or androgenetic alopecia, which is hereditary and affects up to 50% of men by their 50s, according to Phil Day, Superintendent Pharmacist at Pharmacy2U.

Here, the expert breaks down the different types of hair loss, their characteristics and the likely causes.

Androgenetic alopecia

If you have noticed that your hairline is gradually receding, it could be due to androgenetic alopecia.

"Known commonly as male pattern baldness, androgenetic alopecia, it is largely driven by genetics, and early intervention is key to slowing its progression," he says. "This condition is characterised by a receding hairline and gradual thinning of hair at the crown and temples."

Alopecia areata

If you have bald patches, you may have alopecia areata.

"Whilst not primarily hereditary, there is a genetic predisposition with this - if there is family history this can increase the risk," Phil states. "This can be more common in people with thyroid conditions, diabetes and Down syndrome, and affects about two in 1,000 people each year."

According to the pharmacist, the condition, which mostly affects teenagers and young adults, causes coin-sized patches of baldness on the head or body.

Telogen effluvium

Another form of alopecia is telogen effluvium, which can be caused by lifestyle factors such as dieting and some medications.

"(It) is characterised by widespread thinning of the hair, rather than bald patches," he explains. "Causes can include stress, illness, medical treatments, crash dieting, some medications, and hormonal changes."

There are other lifestyle factors that may exacerbate hair loss and thinning, such as stress, sudden weight loss, and iron deficiency.

"Modern lifestyles can often lead to nutritional gaps and increased stress, both of which play a role in hair loss," Phil continues. "Whilst maintaining a balanced diet and monitoring your health is essential, we would also recommend if required, counselling or support groups such as alopecia.org to aid you further."

The expert also recommends taking supplements such as biotin, vitamin D and iron.

2025-03-24T12:41:01Z