Hair Loss Diagnosis
Understanding hair loss is the first step toward growth.
What to Expect During Your Hair Loss Evaluation
Accurate diagnosis is the most important step in treating hair loss effectively. Because hair loss can be caused by genetics, hormones, medical conditions, lifestyle factors, or disruptions in the hair growth cycle, a comprehensive evaluation is essential.
At Bopp Dermatology & Facial Plastic Surgery, our providers take a thorough, personalized approach to hair loss diagnosis to identify the underlying cause and create an individualized treatment plan.
Your Hair Loss Consultation
During your visit, your provider will begin with a detailed discussion of your medical history, hair loss concerns, and goals for treatment. Understanding when hair loss started, how it has progressed, and any associated symptoms helps guide the diagnostic process.
Your provider may ask about:
- Family history of hair loss
- Recent illness, stress, or hormonal changes
- Medications or supplements
- Hair care practices and styling habits
- Overall health and lifestyle factors
Scalp & Hair Analysis
A comprehensive scalp analysis is a key part of diagnosing hair loss. Your provider will examine the scalp and hair follicles to assess overall scalp health and identify patterns of hair thinning or shedding.
This evaluation may include:
- Visual inspection of hair density and distribution
- Assessment of scalp inflammation, scaling, or irritation
- Examination of hair shaft thickness and follicle condition
- Identification of scarring or non-scarring hair loss patterns
Bloodwork & Laboratory Testing
In some cases, bloodwork may be recommended to rule out underlying medical conditions that can contribute to hair loss.
Blood tests may evaluate:
- Thyroid function
- Iron levels and ferritin
- Vitamin and nutrient deficiencies
- Hormonal imbalances
- Inflammatory markers
Ultimately, Not every patient requires laboratory testing, but bloodwork can be an important diagnostic tool when hair loss may be linked to internal health factors.
ALO GENETIC TESTING
For certain patients, the ALO genetic buccal swab testing may be recommended. This non-invasive test collects a sample from the inside of the cheek to analyze genetic factors related to hair loss.
Genetic testing can help:
- Identify sensitivity to DHT
- Detect early signs or symptoms of alopecia.
- Predict response to specific hair loss treatments
- Determine the most effective medications or therapies
- Avoid treatments that may be less effective for your genetics
Why Accurate Diagnosis Matters
Hair loss treatments are most effective when they are targeted to the correct cause.
Treating hair loss without a proper diagnosis can delay results or lead to ineffective care.
- Visual inspection of hair density and distribution
- Assessment of scalp inflammation, scaling, or irritation
- Examination of hair shaft thickness and follicle condition
- Identification of scarring or non-scarring hair loss patterns
Creating a Personalized Treatment Plan
Once your evaluation is complete, your provider will review your findings and discuss treatment options tailored to your diagnosis.
Your personalized plan may be designed to:
- Slow or stop hair loss progression
- Support healthier hair growth
- Improve scalp health
- Address underlying medical or hormonal factors
Expert Hair Loss Diagnosis at Bopp Dermatology & Facial Plastic Surgery
At Bopp Dermatology & Facial Plastic Surgery, our team combines medical expertise with advanced diagnostic tools to deliver personalized, evidence-based hair loss care.
If you are experiencing hair thinning, excessive shedding, or changes in scalp health, a professional evaluation can provide clarity and direction.
Schedule your hair loss consultation today and take the first step toward an accurate diagnosis and a treatment plan designed specifically for you.