Hair loss can lower a person’s confidence, leading to depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions.
If you’re struggling with hair loss or thinning, you likely already know how embarrassing it can be. You may have tried to hide it by changing your part or wearing hats. Or maybe it’s too obvious to even bother trying to conceal.
But not all types of hair loss are permanent, nor are they untreatable. Discover some of the different types of hair loss and what to expect with each.
Hereditary Hair Loss
Hereditary hair loss, also called male pattern baldness or female pattern baldness, is a type of hair loss that’s passed down through your genes.
This type of hair loss generally happens gradually as you age. And while many are self-conscious of this gradual balding, it’s one of the most common types of hair loss in men (though it can affect either gender).
Hair restoration is one of the most effective ways of treating hereditary hair loss, and there are several over-the-counter products and solutions as well.
Stress-Related Hair Loss
Hair loss from stress is one of the most common kinds of hair loss, and fortunately it’s usually only temporary.
Stress can disrupt the hair’s growth cycle, leading to excessive hair fall. For those who are chronically stressed, they may notice regular hair loss and thinning because the growth cycle is never given a chance to reset.
To avoid additional hair loss, it’s important to de-stress. Replace unhealthy habits like smoking or staying up late with new habits like meditating or exercising. That can help restore your locks’ growth, preventing more shedding.
Drug and Chemical Hair Loss
Sometimes, hair loss and balding may be the result of certain drugs or medical treatments.
One common example is losing hair from chemotherapy treatments. Once chemotherapy is finished, most hair can be expected to grow back.
Other types of drugs that may cause hair loss include:
- birth control pills
- blood thinners
- some blood pressure medicines
- acne medications
- antibiotics
Hair loss from medications is often temporary. If you suffer from prolonged hair loss after taking a new drug, talk to your doctor about alternatives.
Traction Alopecia
Traction alopecia is a type of hair loss caused by strain and pulling on the hair. This is a common type of hair loss in women who regularly pull their hair in tight hairstyles, such as cornrows or tight ponytails. It may also happen after getting hair extensions or weaves.
When the hair is repeatedly or continuously pulled, it weakens the hair, leading to hair loss. The best way to prevent traction alopecia is to choose hairstyles that cause less tension on the scalp. But if you’re already noticing hair loss, your dermatologist can help you find treatment options.
Fungal Hair Loss
Fungal infections, like ringworm, may cause hair loss on your head. This type of hair loss is typically found in patches that expand over time.
To treat fungal hair loss, it’s important to first treat the infection causing it. Anti-fungal medication can help eliminate the fungus to begin improving the condition of your scalp.
Identifying Different Types of Hair Loss
If you’re struggling with thinning hair, it helps to understand some of the different types of hair loss. That way, you can get to the root of the problem and find suitable treatments for your condition.
For more ways to care for your mane, check out our other beauty articles!
