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Understanding Hair Loss

Knowledge Is the First Step to Restoration

Hair loss has many causes, each requiring a different approach. Understanding why you are losing hair is essential to finding the right treatment. Explore the most common types below.

Androgenetic AlopeciaTraction AlopeciaTelogen EffluviumAlopecia AreataHormonal HairMedical HairNutritional Deficiency
Type 1 of 7

Androgenetic Alopecia

Male & Female Pattern Hair Loss

What It Is

The most common form of hair loss, driven by genetic sensitivity to DHT (dihydrotestosterone). In men, it follows the Norwood pattern with receding hairline and crown thinning. In women, it presents as diffuse thinning along the part line (Ludwig pattern).

Who It Affects

50% of men by age 50, and up to 40% of women by menopause. Family history on either side increases risk.

Symptoms

  • Gradual thinning over years
  • Miniaturized, finer hairs replacing thick ones
  • Widening part (women) or receding temples (men)
  • Visible scalp through hair
Type 2 of 7

Traction Alopecia

Hair Loss from Tight Hairstyles

What It Is

Caused by prolonged tension on the hair follicle from tight braids, ponytails, weaves, extensions, locs, or cornrows. Particularly common in individuals with Afro-textured hair. When caught early, it is fully reversible.

Who It Affects

Predominantly affects women of African descent, but anyone who wears tight hairstyles consistently. Can also affect Sikh men who tie turbans tightly.

Symptoms

  • Thinning along the hairline and temples
  • Small bumps or redness where hair is pulled
  • Broken or short hairs at the hairline
  • Gradual recession of the frontal hairline
Type 3 of 7

Telogen Effluvium

Stress-Related Shedding

What It Is

A temporary but alarming condition where a large number of hairs simultaneously enter the resting (telogen) phase and then shed. Usually triggered by a significant physical or emotional stressor, and typically resolves within 6-9 months.

Who It Affects

Anyone experiencing major stress, surgery, illness, crash dieting, or significant life changes. More commonly reported in women.

Symptoms

  • Sudden, diffuse shedding (100-300+ hairs per day)
  • Noticeable hair in the shower drain or pillow
  • Overall thinning without bald patches
  • Hair feels thinner when gathered in a ponytail
Type 4 of 7

Alopecia Areata

Autoimmune Hair Loss

What It Is

An autoimmune condition where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks hair follicles, causing sudden, patchy hair loss. Can affect the scalp, beard, eyebrows, and body hair. Unpredictable in course, but many patients experience regrowth.

Who It Affects

Can occur at any age, but most commonly begins before age 30. Affects about 2% of the population. Family history of autoimmune conditions increases risk.

Symptoms

  • Smooth, round bald patches appearing suddenly
  • Patches can appear on scalp, beard, or eyebrows
  • 'Exclamation point' hairs at patch edges
  • Nail pitting or ridging in some cases
Type 5 of 7

Hormonal Hair Loss

Postpartum, Menopause & Thyroid

What It Is

Hormonal shifts can significantly impact hair growth cycles. Estrogen drops after pregnancy or during menopause accelerate shedding, while thyroid imbalances (both hypo- and hyperthyroidism) disrupt the growth phase. PCOS-related androgen excess can also thin hair.

Who It Affects

Women during or after pregnancy, perimenopause, menopause, and those with thyroid disorders or PCOS. Men with testosterone imbalances can also be affected.

Symptoms

  • Diffuse thinning across the entire scalp
  • Changes in hair texture (dry, brittle)
  • Increased shedding 2-4 months postpartum
  • Thinning eyebrows (thyroid-related)
Type 6 of 7

Medical Hair Loss

Medications & Chemotherapy

What It Is

Certain medications — including chemotherapy, blood thinners, beta-blockers, retinoids, and some antidepressants — can cause hair thinning or loss as a side effect. Chemotherapy targets rapidly dividing cells, including hair follicles, causing widespread shedding.

Who It Affects

Cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, and individuals on medications known to affect hair growth. The effect is usually temporary once medication is adjusted or completed.

Symptoms

  • Rapid, widespread hair shedding
  • Complete hair loss within weeks (chemotherapy)
  • Gradual thinning (other medications)
  • Changes in hair texture during regrowth
Type 7 of 7

Nutritional Deficiency

Iron, Vitamin D, Biotin & More

What It Is

Hair follicles are among the most metabolically active cells in the body. Deficiencies in iron, vitamin D, zinc, biotin, and protein can impair hair growth, leading to thinning, breakage, and slow regrowth. Often overlooked as a contributing factor.

Who It Affects

Individuals with restrictive diets, vegans/vegetarians (iron, B12), those with malabsorption conditions, post-bariatric surgery patients, and anyone with an unbalanced diet.

Symptoms

  • Diffuse thinning across the scalp
  • Slow hair growth
  • Brittle, dry, or dull hair
  • Hair that breaks easily

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