Pattern baldness is the most common type, it is medically called alopecia and it affects about a third of the population including men as well as women. It is typically a permanent condition but there are also temporary types. Areas affected are the scalp as well as other areas of the body. As early as the teen years to the early 20's is when male pattern baldness can show symptoms, usually the first being a receding hairline. In women the symptoms show up as a thinning on the sides, the crown and the front. Patchy spots can appear due to inflammation where the follicles have been damaged.
When pulled into certain types of hairstyles such as pigtails, ponytails and cornrows, the area of the part can start to show signs of baldness. Loss of hair can also be caused by stress. Soreness and itching can precede the problem but it usually has very few symptoms. In temporary cases, small patches will appear on the scalp as well as in the beard, the eyebrows and eyelashes.
Sometimes hormonal changes, damage and irritation can change the cycle of growth. Normal growth is 1/2 inch a month and shedding is on average 50 to 100 hairs a day. Thinning is a normal phase of aging.
Based on the reason for the loss will determine whether medication will be effective. Over the counter treatments applied to the scalp can prevent further loss and stimulate growth. Prescription medications can also slow down the loss and promote growth but it can take a few months for results. One can also try cortisone shots once a month, pills can also be taken.
When medications are not effective surgery is often the next step taken. Grafts can be done to fill in bald spots. Scalp reduction minimizes the area of baldness. These options are not without risk and can be painful, cause scarring and there is risk of infection.
Natural looking wigs can be an option to consider, there are many styles to choose from. The best method is to prevent the condition from occurring if possible, eat a healthy diet and practice gentle grooming with limited blow dryer use. Hair Loss DC can advise on styling techniques and options available.
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