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CONSUMER EDUCATION

Hair Loss Classification

Contrary to popular beliefs, there are indeed many types of hair loss and many of them are actually reversible or can be treated. It is a big mistake to jump to conclusion at the onset of hair loss and think that you have male or female pattern baldness (androgenic alopecia). It is an even bigger mistake not to consult your dermatologist before you proceed to purchase a treatment, as only your dermatologist or doctor can accurately diagnose your condition and prescribe the appropriate treatment for you.

Alopecia is the official term for all types of hair loss. Generally speaking, there are basically two types of hair loss: scarring and non-scarring. The scarring forms of hair loss are usually permanent in nature and are less likely to allow for regrowth. However, early diagnosis can help tremendously in rescuing partially lost hair. The scarring forms of hair loss is usually associated with infections that cause inflammatory reactions around hair follicles, which eventually are replaced by scar tissue. Deep bacterial and fungal outbreaks or the herpes zoster (shingles) virus can all be responsible. If the treatment comes early enough, residual follicular activity may return. Serious physical trauma, such as abrasive, chemical or thermal burns as well as severe sun burns can also cause scarring hair loss.

The most common form of non-scarring hair loss is male pattern baldness or female pattern baldness (androgenic alopecia). Though not all contributing causes are known, sex hormones are definitely one of the biggest culprits. In general, female pattern baldness is easier to treat than male pattern baldness.

Severe illnesses (usually with high fever) and medications can both cause temporary hair loss, known as Telogen Effluvium. In some cases, the loss can be delayed or avoided. Again, the key is to consult your doctor or dermatologist at the onset of significant hair loss. Medications that may cause hair loss include birth control pills, anti-depressant medications, hormonal treatments, anticoagulants, allopurinol, anti-inflammatory drugs, steroids and of course, cancer treatments. Vitamin A can also cause hair loss, but that require far higher doses than most people would normally take. Ironically, vitamin A is also necessary for proper skin and hair growth.

Alopecia Areata is another form of hair loss characterized by rapid loss of patches of hair, usually coin-sized, while surrounding areas of hair appear normal. The cause is still largely unknown. The prevailing theory implicates an immune-system condition. The lost hair may return at intervals, but recurrences are common.

Alopecia Totalis is probaly the worst case scenario for hair loss. Hair loss occurs throughout the whole body, affecting your scalp eyebrows, and all body hair.

If your hair loss is associated with scaling,it is possible that ringworm is causing the patchy hair loss and masquerading as alopecia areata. Ringworm is readily treatable with antifungal agents.

Traction Alopecia is another form of reversible hair loss. It is caused when hair is continually pulled by certain hairstyles, such as tight braiding or ponytails or by the unconscious habit of twisting the hair. In addition, people who have hair weaving on their scalp may also suffer from Traction Alopecia.

Trichotillomania is another form of extreme case when people are compulsively pulling their hair off. It is more common among females and is considered to be a nervous disorder, which some feel is within the same category as compulsive disorders.   The 2 medicines for obsessive-compulsive disorder are Luvox and Anafranil and some people suggest that they may help.

Norwood hair loss scale: the following is the most popular classification scale for male pattern baldness, invented by Dr. Norwood in the 70s.

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