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Hair Loss

Hair Loss

Hair loss is one of the most common concerns dermatologists see, and it can stem from several very different underlying causes, from genetics to hormonal shifts to a temporary reaction to stress or illness. Losing 50 to 100 hairs a day is normal, but shedding beyond that, thinning at the crown or hairline, or patchy bald spots are worth a professional evaluation. At Genesis Dermatology in Jupiter, FL, board-certified dermatologists diagnose the specific type of hair loss you’re experiencing and build a treatment plan around it, since the right approach depends entirely on the cause.
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What Causes Hair Loss?

Hair loss, medically known as alopecia, isn’t a single condition, it’s a symptom with several distinct causes. Androgenetic alopecia (male and female pattern hair loss) accounts for roughly 95% of cases and is driven by genetics and the hormone DHT; in men it typically causes a receding hairline and crown thinning, while in women it usually shows up as more diffuse thinning without a receding hairline.

Alopecia areata is an autoimmune condition that causes sudden, patchy hair loss as the immune system mistakenly attacks hair follicles. Telogen effluvium is a temporary, diffuse shedding triggered by a stressor like illness, surgery, childbirth, a crash diet, a new medication, or a nutrient deficiency such as low iron, and it typically resolves once the underlying trigger is addressed. Less common causes include scarring alopecia, which permanently damages follicles, and traction alopecia from tight hairstyles or repeated tension on the hair.

How to Detect Hair Loss Worth Evaluating

Signs that your hair loss may need attention include:
  • Gradual thinning at the crown or a receding hairline (typical of pattern hair loss)
  • Sudden, noticeable shedding well beyond your normal amount, often triggered by a recent illness, stress, or medication change
  • Round or oval bald patches that appear suddenly (a hallmark of alopecia areata)
  • Scalp tenderness, itching, redness, or scaling accompanying hair loss
  • Thinning that's affecting your part width, ponytail thickness, or overall hair density

When Should You See a Doctor?

Consider a dermatology visit if:
  • You've used over-the-counter hair loss products for six months or more without improvement
  • Shedding is sudden, severe, or accompanied by bald patches
  • Your scalp is tender, itchy, or shows visible redness or scaling
  • Hair loss is affecting your confidence or emotional well-being
  • You want an accurate diagnosis before starting treatment, since the right approach depends entirely on the underlying cause

What Happens If Hair Loss Is Left Untreated?

The physical consequences of delaying treatment vary by type. Pattern hair loss is progressive, meaning it tends to continue and worsen over time without intervention, and the follicles involved can eventually stop producing hair altogether, at which point regrowth becomes far more difficult. Scarring alopecia is even more time-sensitive: the inflammation involved permanently damages hair follicles, so early treatment is the only way to preserve the hair that’s still there.

Beyond the physical trajectory, the psychological impact of unaddressed hair loss is well documented and shouldn’t be underestimated. Research shows the quality-of-life burden from hair loss can be comparable to, or exceed, that of other visible chronic skin conditions, and it’s commonly linked to embarrassment, reduced self-esteem, social withdrawal, and in some cases anxiety or depression. Getting an early diagnosis isn’t just about preserving hair, it’s often about protecting how you feel day to day.

The Genesis Dermatology Process

Effective treatment starts with figuring out exactly what type of hair loss you’re dealing with:
  • A consultation reviewing your hair loss pattern, timeline, family history, medications, and any recent illness or life changes
  • A scalp exam, and bloodwork when a nutrient deficiency, thyroid issue, or other underlying condition is suspected
  • A personalized treatment plan, which may include topical or oral minoxidil, finasteride for men, or other targeted medications depending on the diagnosis
  • Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy, which uses your own blood's growth factors to stimulate follicle activity, often combined with medication for better results
  • For alopecia areata, treatment options like corticosteroid injections or other immune-modulating therapies
  • Ongoing follow-up to track regrowth and adjust your plan, since most hair loss treatments take several months to show visible results

Ready to Take the Next Step?

The sooner hair loss is diagnosed, the more options you typically have. Schedule a consultation with the board-certified dermatologists at Genesis Dermatology in Jupiter, FL, to find out what’s causing your hair loss and what can be done about it.
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Frequently Asked Questions

Is hair loss reversible?
It depends on the cause. Telogen effluvium and many cases of alopecia areata are reversible once the trigger is addressed or treated. Pattern hair loss can often be slowed or partially reversed with consistent treatment, but is generally progressive without it, which is why early treatment matters.
Most hair loss treatments take 3 to 6 months of consistent use before visible improvement, since hair growth happens in cycles. Your dermatologist will set realistic expectations based on your specific diagnosis.
Finasteride is effective for many men with pattern hair loss, but it can cause side effects for some, including changes in libido, and isn’t appropriate during pregnancy. Your dermatologist will review your health history to determine if it’s a good option for you.
Current evidence supports PRP as an effective option for many types of hair loss, and it’s often used alongside medication for stronger results. Your provider can help determine whether you’re a good candidate.
Yes. Significant physical or emotional stress can trigger telogen effluvium, a temporary shedding phase that typically shows up two to three months after the stressful event and resolves once the body recovers.
If you’re noticing more than the typical 50 to 100 strands a day, visible thinning, bald patches, or scalp symptoms like redness or itching, it’s worth having evaluated rather than waiting to see if it resolves on its own.