Causes of hair loss
Male or female pattern loss "Androgenetic alopecia"
Androgenetic alopecia is the most common cause of hair loss, typically presenting as a gradual thinning of the hair.
In men, this is often referred to as male pattern baldness, and usually involves recession of the front hairline along with thinning at the crown and central scalp.
Female pattern hair loss can also affect women, sometimes beginning at a younger age than expected. This form typically causes less recession at the front hairline, and instead leads to thinning across the front and central scalp, with the hair at the back of the scalp usually remaining preserved.
If you're experiencing hair loss, consulting a dermatologist can help identify the underlying cause and guide you through the available treatment options.
Dr Wernham offers assessment and treatment for androgenetic alopecia in Sutton Coldfield and Stafford.
Alopecia Areata
Alopecia areata is an autoimmune condition in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the hair follicles, leading to hair loss. It typically causes patches of complete hair loss, rather than gradual thinning.
In more severe cases, hair loss can become more widespread and may also affect other areas, including the eyebrows and eyelashes. A characteristic feature of alopecia areata is that the underlying scalp usually appears normal, and can sometimes have a smooth or shiny appearance.
If you're experiencing symptoms of hair loss, it's advisable to consult a dermatologist for proper evaluation and management.
Dr Wernham offers assessment and treatment for alopecia areata in Sutton Coldfield and Stafford.
Frontal fibrosing alopecia
Frontal fibrosing alopecia (FFA) is a type of scarring alopecia more commonly seen in women, typically presenting as a gradually progressive recession of the front hairline. It may also affect the eyebrows.
On closer examination, there is often scaling and redness around the affected hair follicles.
Because FFA is a scarring form of hair loss, early diagnosis and treatment are important — untreated scarring alopecia can result in permanent hair loss, as the affected follicles are unable to regrow once significantly damaged. If you notice these symptoms, it's important to seek assessment from a dermatologist promptly.
Dr Wernham offers assessment and treatment for frontal fibrosing alopecia in Sutton Coldfield and Stafford.
Traction Alopecia
Traction alopecia is a form of gradual hair loss caused by long-term pulling on the hair follicles, typically resulting from certain hairstyles or practices such as tight braids, pigtails, ponytails, or hair extensions.
If caught early, traction alopecia can often improve once the causative hairstyling practice is stopped. However, if the pulling continues over a prolonged period, it can lead to permanent, scarring hair loss in the affected areas.
If you're experiencing symptoms of hair loss related to hairstyling, it's advisable to consult a dermatologist for proper assessment and guidance.
Dr Wernham offers assessment and treatment for traction alopecia in Sutton Coldfield and Stafford.
Lichen planopilaris
Lichen planus is an inflammatory skin condition that can affect not only the skin, but also the hair follicles and nails. The form that affects the hair follicles is known as lichen planopilaris, characterised by "lichenoid" inflammation around the follicle.
This inflammation can lead to scarring and hair loss (alopecia) over time. Patients may experience symptoms such as stinging, pain, or a burning sensation on the scalp, along with scaling around the base of the hairs.
A scalp biopsy can help confirm the diagnosis. As this is a scarring form of alopecia, it's essential to consult a dermatologist early to begin treatment and help prevent further progression and permanent hair loss.
Dr Wernham offers assessment and treatment for lichen planopilaris in Sutton Coldfield and Stafford.