Male pattern baldness is the most common cause of hair loss in men and is primarily genetic. It typically begins with a receding hairline or thinning at the crown and progresses gradually over time.

Common causes include:

• Genetic sensitivity to DHT (dihydrotestosterone)
• Hormonal changes
• Age-related follicle shrinkage

Signs of male pattern baldness:

• Receding temples
• Thinning at the crown
• Overall decrease in hair density

Early intervention can slow progression and help preserve existing hair. A professional evaluation at Bopp Dermatology & Facial Plastic Surgery can determine the most effective treatment options.

Female pattern baldness affects women differently than men. Instead of a receding hairline, women often experience diffuse thinning across the scalp, especially along the part line.

Common causes include:

• Genetics
• Hormonal fluctuations (pregnancy, menopause, thyroid disorders)
• Aging

Symptoms may include:

• Widening part
• Decreased volume
• Thinning at the crown while maintaining the frontal hairline

Female hair loss is often emotionally distressing, but modern medical and aesthetic treatments can help improve hair density and scalp health when addressed early.

Telogen effluvium is a temporary hair shedding condition triggered by physical or emotional stress that disrupts the hair growth cycle.

Common triggers include:

• Illness or surgery
• Significant stress
• Rapid weight loss
• Hormonal changes
• Postpartum hair loss

Hair shedding usually occurs 2–3 months after the triggering event and can result in noticeable thinning. The good news is that telogen effluvium is often reversible once the underlying cause is addressed.

Traction alopecia is hair loss caused by repeated tension on the hair follicles. It is commonly associated with certain hairstyles and grooming practices.

Common causes:

• Tight braids, ponytails, or buns
• Extensions or weaves
• Frequent use of tight headwear

Signs include:

• Thinning along the hairline
• Hair breakage
• Scalp tenderness or irritation

If caught early, traction alopecia can be reversed. Prolonged tension may lead to permanent follicle damage, making early diagnosis essential.

Alopecia areata is an autoimmune condition where the body’s immune system attacks hair follicles, leading to sudden hair loss.

Characteristics:

• Round or oval bald patches
• Sudden onset
• May affect the scalp, eyebrows, eyelashes, or body hair

This condition can be unpredictable, with periods of hair regrowth and recurrence. Medical evaluation is important to confirm diagnosis and explore treatment options that may encourage regrowth.

Scarring alopecia is a group of rare but serious hair loss disorders that permanently destroy hair follicles and replace them with scar tissue.

Symptoms may include:

• Redness, scaling, or inflammation of the scalp
• Burning, itching, or tenderness
• Permanent hair loss in affected areas

Early diagnosis is critical, as prompt treatment may help prevent further follicle damage and preserve remaining hair.