What is hair loss?
Hair loss, also called alopecia, is a partial or complete loss of hair from areas of the body where it normally grows. Though your hair loss may occur anywhere on your body, including your eyebrows and eyelashes, it most often affects the scalp.
Your hair loss may result from many causes, including:
- Hormones
- Genetics
- Medication
- Aging
Stress and certain hairstyles may also lead to hair loss.
What is alopecia areata?
Alopecia areata is an autoimmune disorder in which your body’s immune system attacks your hair follicles, which affects hair growth. The condition often develops during childhood or adolescence.
There are three types of alopecia areata:
Alopecia areata
Alopecia areata refers to patchy areas of baldness that affect any part of your body.
Alopecia totalis
With alopecia totalis, you lose all the hair on your head.
Alopecia universalis
Alopecia universalis means you have lost all of your body hair. This type is the rarest form of alopecia.
When should I seek medical care for my hair loss?
If you or your child are experiencing unexpected hair loss, you should contact Idaho Skin Institute for an evaluation. An early diagnosis and treatment plan may prevent further hair loss.
Early warning signs of hair loss that benefit from medical intervention include:
- Gradual hair thinning on your head
- Circular or patchy bald spots
- Sudden increased shedding/loss of hair
- Full-body hair loss
- Patches of skin scaling that spread over the scalp
Most people with hair loss are healthy. However, certain medical conditions may trigger hair loss, such as thyroid disease, anemia, or vitiligo (loss of skin pigmentation).
How is hair loss treated?
The team at Idaho Skin Institute develops personalized treatment plans for hair loss based on the underlying cause.
For alopecia areata, your dermatologist may prescribe a corticosteroid to suppress your immune system and prevent further hair loss. They also provide self-care tips to address your specific hair loss needs and discomforts, including naturopathic treatments.
For hereditary baldness, your dermatologist may prescribe medication to help slow the rate of loss and even possibly regrow lost hair.
For expert care of hair loss from an experienced and compassionate team, call Idaho Skin Institute, or schedule an appointment using the online booking tool today.
