Alopecia is a broad, general term that means hair loss. However, there are many different types of alopecia that men and women can experience. Hair loss occurs in varying degrees of severity, with some types being temporary and others permanent. This is your guide to the different kinds of alopecia, their characteristics, and what to do if you suspect hair loss.
Androgenetic Alopecia
Also known as male-pattern baldness or female-pattern baldness, this is the most common type of alopecia. Androgenetic alopecia is hereditary. It primarily affects men, but women can also experience this kind of hair loss.
In men, it commonly starts as a receding hairline or balding at the crown, which eventually leads to complete balding.
Women with androgenetic alopecia typically have a different experience than men. Most likely, they will have an overall thinning of the hair or a widening of the part. It is very uncommon for women to go completely bald from androgenetic alopecia.
Alopecia Areata
Alopecia areata is an immune disorder in which the body’s immune system mistakenly perceives healthy hair follicles as a threat to the body and attacks them. This kind of alopecia is characterized by sudden hair loss in small, usually round patches. People with this type of hair loss may not just lose hair on their head but can experience hair loss on any part of their body, including facial hair.
Traction Alopecia
This type of alopecia is a preventable one that results from too much tension on the hair for extended periods of time. The main cause of traction alopecia is tight hairstyles (e.g., braids). Over time, the stress can permanently damage the hair follicles, leading to hair loss. To prevent traction alopecia, it is important to avoid tight hairstyles that place tension on the hair.
Alopecia Totalis
Alopecia totalis is a complete balding of the scalp. The rate at which hair loss occurs differs from person to person. Some experience a slow rate of hair loss, while for others, it happens very quickly. The exact cause of alopecia totalis is still unknown. However, it is thought to be the result of an autoimmune disorder similar to alopecia areata. Further research is needed to completely understand this type of alopecia.
Alopecia Universalis
Similar to alopecia totalis, the reason for this type of alopecia is thought to be related to an immune disorder. Alopecia universalis involves complete hair loss all over the body, including the scalp.
Cicatricial Alopecia
Also known as scarring alopecia, this type of alopecia involves hair loss that leaves scars beneath the surface of the skin. Inflammation destroys the hair follicle, and scar tissue grows in its place. This is a permanent type of hair loss since the hair follicles are destroyed.
What Can You Do If You Are Experiencing Hair Loss?
If you notice increased shedding or thinning, you may be experiencing hair loss. Early detection is key. The faster you seek professional treatment from a reputable hair restoration studio, the higher your chances of regrowing your natural hair.
Custom Design Hair is Arizona’s leading restoration studio. We offer a full line of hair loss solutions to fit every need budget. Our certified hairstylists will conduct a thorough hair and scalp analysis to get to the root of the problem and then walk you through viable options. Here at Custom Design Hair, we are passionate about helping men, women, and children feel and look their best with a full, thick head of hair.
You don’t have to suffer with hair loss any longer. Contact us today to schedule your free, no-obligation consultation, and let us help you take back your life!
