Hair Loss

Hair loss affects millions of men and women each year, making it a common cosmetic concern with many underlying causes. At Shady Grove Dermatology in Rockville, Maryland, the board-certified dermatologists get to the root of hair loss to develop a personalized treatment plan that boosts your hair’s volume and density. Call today or use the online booking tool to schedule a hair loss consultation.

What causes hair loss?

Hair loss occurs when the hair follicles responsible for growth become damaged. Many factors can lead to hair loss, including:

Genetics

This type of hair loss is more commonly known as male-pattern baldness and female-pattern baldness. It occurs gradually and in predictable patterns in both men and women.

Hormonal changes

Hormonal changes due to pregnancy, menopause, and thyroid issues can cause thinning hair.

Physical and emotional stress

Surgery, severe illness, and stressful life events can lead to temporary hair loss, shedding, and breakage.

Poor nutrition

Lack of proper nutrition and deficiencies in certain vitamins and minerals, such as iron and vitamin D, can contribute to hair loss.

Infections

Many infections, including ringworm, can invade the skin and lead to hair loss. Chronic diseases, such as lupus and Type 2 diabetes, can also cause your hair to thin.

Hairstyles and treatments

Pulling your hair into tight hairstyles, using hot oil treatments and permanents, or regularly applying harsh chemicals to your hair can damage the hair shaft and lead to hair loss.

When does hair loss usually start?

While hair loss can affect people when they’re younger, men typically begin losing hair in their 30s. Around two-thirds of American men experience some hair loss by age 35. Women tend to notice thinning hair later, around 10-15 years after men, particularly during menopause.

Can you reverse hair loss?

Some types of hair loss are reversible, while others are more difficult to treat. Slowing hair loss is the key to preventing further thinning and balding. Determining the underlying cause of hair loss is the first step in developing an effective treatment plan to promote regrowth.

What are the treatments for hair loss?

The team at Shady Grove Dermatology offers many effective treatments for hair loss, including:

• Minoxidil (Rogaine®)
• Hormone therapy
• Prescription shampoos
• Topical corticosteroids
• Lifestyle and dietary changes
• Nutritional supplements

In cases of severe hair loss, your dermatologist may recommend hair transplantation or other, more aggressive treatments to restore your hair’s density and volume.

Call Shady Grove Dermatology today or use the online booking tool to schedule a hair loss consultation.