What you may notice
Hair loss has many causes, and the right treatment depends on the diagnosis. Common patterns include gradual thinning at the crown or part line, sudden heavy shedding after illness, surgery or a stressful event, smooth round patches (alopecia areata), and thinning at the hairline from tight styles (traction alopecia). Some types scar the follicle, so early evaluation protects the hair you have.
Dr. Knight has been a principal investigator in alopecia research trials and talks through traction alopecia in her hair care tips.
How we evaluate it
- The pattern of loss and a close look at the scalp and follicles
- A history of styling practices, chemical treatments, medications, illness and family history
- Blood tests when a thyroid, iron or hormonal cause is suspected
- A small scalp biopsy when a scarring type of hair loss is possible
Possible care approaches
- Topical and oral medications matched to the diagnosis
- Treatment of scalp inflammation in scarring alopecia
- Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) scalp treatments through Medi Spa West for suitable candidates
- Practical guidance on styling, breakage and gentle hair care
What to expect
- Hair grows slowly, so most treatments are judged over four to six months
- Shedding can briefly increase when some treatments start
- Photos at each visit help track regrowth objectively
When to call
- Shedding that lasts more than a few months
- Patches of smooth, bare scalp
- Scalp pain, burning, itching or scarring with hair loss
- Thinning at the hairline or temples from tight styles, which can become permanent
This page is general information and not a diagnosis. Treatment is individual and is decided with you at your visit.