Hair Loss (Alopecia) Diagnosis and Treatment

Androgenetic Alopecia is a common hair loss known as both male pattern baldness and female pattern baldness. In men, the hairline recedes along the temples and crowns. In women, the hair thins over the entire head. The hairline does not recede, and total baldness is rare.

Alopecia Areata is hair loss that affects the scalp and causes at least a patch of hair loss. Alopecia Areata usually affects younger men and women. Most of the time, this hair loss condition will correct itself in about a year; however, hair loss can occasionally be permanent. 

There are a variety of treatments available to help stimulate hair growth or to replace hair loss.

Rogaine (Minoxidil) is a non- prescription medication used for both alopecia areata and androgenetic alopecia. It is believed to be the most effective way to treat both male and female pattern baldness; however, hair regrowth is only effective for about 40% of patients. Rogaine comes in two forms: liquid and foam. The medication is applied to the scalp two times a day. It takes between 8 and 12 months for hair regrowth to take place. Hair loss will continue when treatment stops. The most common side effects include allergic contact dermatitis, minor scalp irritations, and increased facial hair.

Propecia (Finasteride) is a prescription medication used to help treat male pattern baldness. Propecia comes in pill form and is taken daily. It takes between 6 and 8 months before treatment is effective. Hair loss will continue when treatment stops. The most common side effects include erectile dysfunction, decreased libido, ejaculatory dysfunction, myopathy, and gynecomastia. It is not recommended for women. 

Corticosteroids are available to treat alopecia areata. This treatment involves receiving an injection of cortisone once a month. It may take several months before any improvements are noticed. In extreme cases of alopecia areata, a doctor may prescribe pills.

Anthralin is an ointment that can be rubbed onto the scalp. It can take about 3 months before any results are seen.

Surgery Options include hair follicle transplants, alopecia reduction, and scalp flaps. These treatments are generally expensive and can be painful. Infection and scarring can occur. It takes between 6 and 8 months after the surgery to see results. One option is a hair transplant. This procedure is done by either a cosmetic surgeon or dermatologist. The procedure involves taking tiny plugs of skin containing a few strands of hair and embedding the plugs into the bald areas. Usually the plugs are taken from the sides or back of the scalp. The procedure may be done over the course of several sessions. Another option is scalp reduction. Scalp reduction involves removing pieces of the scalp that are bald. A scalp with hair is put in its place. Scalp reduction is usually done along with a hair transplant. The combination of hair transplant and scalp reduction allow for a more natural hairline.

Wigs and hairpieces are also an option that can be used to either temporarily or permanently conceal hair loss. There are a variety of quality and natural looking hairpieces and wigs available today.