About Hair Loss
There are many potential causes of hair loss, but by far the most common is androgenetic alopecia, or patterned hair loss, which results from genetic or familial predisposition. Circulating androgen hormones lead to a progressive reduction in hair length and caliber, a process known as miniaturization, ultimately resulting in visible thinning and hair loss. In such cases, medical therapy plays an important role in slowing further loss, while hair transplantation is the primary method of restoring density. For patients with medical conditions that contribute to or accelerate hair loss, such as iron deficiency, treating the underlying condition is a vital first step. Medical hair-loss treatments and hair transplantation can then serve as complementary interventions once the underlying issue has been addressed.
Female-pattern hair loss: In contrast to men, women tend to thin more diffusely but rarely become totally bald.
Male-pattern hair loss: Baldness progresses over time, but even severely bald men have a rim of permanent hair that can potentially be used for hair transplantation.
Other Causes of Hair Loss:
Aside from androgenetic alopecia, or patterned hair loss, a number of medical conditions—such as iron deficiency, thyroid disorders, and significant psychological stress—can accelerate hair shedding. Medications are another increasingly common contributor, particularly testosterone replacement therapy (TRT). TRT is often prescribed to older adults for non-specific symptoms such as fatigue, reduced libido, decreased bone density, and loss of muscle mass—many of which simply reflect normal aging. Despite its widespread use, numerous studies show that TRT often does not meaningfully improve these symptoms. It is, however, well established that TRT can accelerate hair loss by raising androgen levels, which drive the miniaturization process.
Less commonly, hair loss results from autoimmune, inflammatory, or scarring conditions such as alopecia areata (AA), lichen planopilaris (LPP), frontal fibrosing alopecia (FFA), central centrifugal cicatricial alopecia (CCCA), and acne keloidalis nuchae (AKN). These conditions may present with signs of scalp inflammation, including redness, flaking, discomfort, or irritation.
Many patients worry that their hair care habits are responsible for their hair loss, but this is rarely the case. Exceptions include frequent use of harsh chemical dyes, bleaching agents, or high-heat styling tools, which can damage the hair shaft and follicles. Hairstyles that place constant tension on the scalp—such as tight ponytails, braids, or buns—can also lead to traction alopecia, a form of hair loss caused by chronic pulling. This condition can become permanent, particularly along the temples and frontal hairline.
