Hair Loss Education

Understanding the Types of Hair Loss: Which One Are You Facing?

Kelly | The Hairpath
A woman examining her hair in front of a mirror, reflecting on different types of hair loss and personal experiences with alopecia.

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Hair loss can feel like a lonely and overwhelming experience, but you’re not alone. Millions of women worldwide face the challenge of thinning hair, bald spots, or excessive shedding. Yet, not all hair loss is the same. Understanding what type of hair loss you’re experiencing is the first step toward finding the right treatment and support.

Before we dive in, a gentle reminder: this is The Hairpath, my personal journey, and I’m sharing insights I’ve learned along the way. Always consult with a doctor or dermatologist to get a proper diagnosis and tailored advice.

1. Androgenetic Alopecia (Female Pattern Hair Loss)

Top view of a woman's scalp displaying symptoms of androgenetic alopecia, commonly known as female pattern hair loss, with noticeable hair thinning along the central parting of the hair, revealing a wider separation and reduced hair density.

This is the most common type of hair loss in women, caused by genetics and hormonal changes. It leads to gradual thinning on the crown or a widening parting.

Key signs: Hair thins over time, often starting in your 30s or 40s.

Treatments: Minoxidil is the only FDA-approved treatment for female pattern baldness. Microneedling combined with minoxidil has shown promising results in improving absorption and effectiveness.

Palliative tips: Use volumising shampoos and concealers for an instant confidence boost.

✨ Personal note: I’ve seen great results with Minoxidil 5%, 60ml Hair Growth Spray after consistent use. Microneedling with the Dr. Pen M8 Microneedling Pen Wireless Professional before applying minoxidil enhances absorption. My go-to volumising shampoo is Maria Nila Pure Volume, paired with BOLDIFY Hair Fibres for a seamless look.

2. Telogen Effluvium

Top view of a woman's scalp showing signs of telogen effluvium, characterized by diffuse hair thinning with visible scalp exposure, indicating excessive hair shedding often associated with stress, illness, or hormonal changes.

This temporary condition occurs when hair prematurely enters the shedding phase, often due to stress, hormonal changes, or illness.

Key signs: Diffuse shedding across the scalp, noticeable when washing or brushing your hair.

Treatments: Address underlying causes like iron deficiency or stress. Hair-growth supplements and low-level laser therapy (LLLT) may also help.

Palliative tips: Manage stress and use gentle, scalp-friendly shampoos.

✨ Personal note: Nature’s Bounty Hair, Skin & Nails Gummies have been a tasty way to support hair strength during stressful times.

3. Alopecia Areata

Close-up view of a person's scalp with alopecia areata, featuring a distinct round bald patch with smooth, hairless skin surrounded by otherwise healthy, intact hair, indicative of this autoimmune condition.

This autoimmune condition causes the immune system to attack hair follicles, resulting in sudden bald patches.

Key signs: Circular bald spots on the scalp or other areas, such as eyebrows or eyelashes.

Treatments: Corticosteroids, topical immunotherapy, and emerging JAK inhibitors can promote regrowth.

Palliative tips: Wigs or scarves can be empowering during regrowth.

✨ Personal note: Accessories and extensions have been lifesavers for me—they’re practical and give me a confidence boost. Here are my top picks for different needs:

Headbands:
– DRESHOW Headbands: Stylish and versatile, perfect for daily wear.
– BELEVO Hair Bands: Durable and functional, with boho-inspired designs.

Ponytail Extensions:
– SOFEIYAN Curly Ponytail Extensions: Natural curls for instant volume and elegance.
– SEGOHAIR Wrap Around Extensions: High-quality human hair for a polished look.

4. Trichotillomania (Hair Pulling Disorder)

Image depicting trichotillomania, showing a person pulling strands of hair from their scalp, which is a hallmark behaviour of this hair-pulling disorder, often leading to noticeable bald spots or thinning hair.

This psychological condition involves compulsive hair pulling, often triggered by stress or anxiety.

Key signs: Uneven hair loss, often accompanied by broken hairs of varying lengths.

Treatments: Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is highly effective. Dermatologists may suggest topical solutions to soothe the scalp.

Palliative tips: Use fidget toys or wear gloves to manage urges.

✨ Personal note: Scalp care products like Paul Mitchell Tea Tree Hair and Scalp Treatment soothe irritation caused by pulling.

5. Trichorrhexis Nodosa

Close-up image of hair strands affected by trichorrhexis nodosa, displaying weak points or nodes along the shafts, indicating structural abnormalities often caused by trauma or hereditary hair fragility.

This condition weakens the hair shaft, making it prone to breakage and uneven texture.

Key signs: Brittle, uneven hair with frequent breakage, often noticeable after styling or handling.

Treatments: Focus on strengthening the hair shaft with protein-based treatments. Minimise exposure to harsh chemicals, heat styling, and aggressive grooming. Incorporate hydrating products to maintain elasticity.

Palliative tips: Use a heat protectant spray if styling is unavoidable and opt for gentle detangling brushes to reduce stress on the hair.

✨ Personal note: Olaplex No.3 Hair Perfector has been a lifesaver, restoring my hair’s structure and reducing breakage. Combined with a sulfate-free shampoo, it’s helped me maintain healthier strands over time.

6. Traction Alopecia

Close-up of a scalp affected by traction alopecia, showing hair loss along the hairline and temple areas, with visible scalp irritation and broken hair strands, often caused by prolonged tension from tight hairstyles.

Constantly wearing tight hairstyles like braids or ponytails can damage hair follicles over time.

Key signs: Thinning hair along the temples or hairline.

Treatments: Early intervention is crucial to prevent permanent damage. Switch to protective hairstyles that reduce tension, and incorporate hair care practices that nourish and strengthen the scalp.

Palliative tips: Use satin or silk pillowcases to reduce friction and minimise hair breakage. Avoid using tight elastic bands and opt for soft hair ties instead. Consider wearing a loose-fitting scarf or satin bonnet during the day for additional protection. Use leave-in conditioners and hydrating treatments to keep hair healthy and reduce stress on the strands.

✨ Personal note: The Satin Night Sleeping Cap has been a game-changer, reducing friction and protecting hair overnight. Adding scalp massages with a nourishing oil like argan or jojoba has also helped maintain my hair’s strength and health.

7. Scarring Alopecias (Cicatricial Alopecia)

Image showing scarring alopecia (cicatricial alopecia), characterised by patches of hair loss with visible redness, scaling, and scarring on the scalp, indicating permanent hair follicle damage due to inflammation.

This rare form of hair loss results from inflammation that destroys hair follicles, leaving scar tissue.

Key signs: Smooth, shiny bald patches or areas with visible scarring.

Treatments: Anti-inflammatory medications like corticosteroids or hydroxychloroquine can halt progression. Early diagnosis is crucial.

Palliative tips: Protect your scalp with sunscreen.

✨ Personal note: Calypso Hair & Scalp Protection Spray SPF30 offers high UV protection and is non-greasy, perfect for sensitive scalps.

8. Anagen Effluvium

Image showing a scalp affected by anagen effluvium, characterised by rapid and diffuse hair loss, often resulting in significant thinning or bald patches, typically caused by factors like chemotherapy or exposure to toxins.

Often caused by chemotherapy, this type occurs during the hair’s growth phase.

Key signs: Sudden, widespread hair loss.

Treatments: Cold caps can reduce chemotherapy-induced hair loss.

Palliative tips: Consider wigs or head wraps for confidence.

✨ Personal note: Discuss Paxman Scalp Cooling Caps with your doctor to explore options.

9. Loose Anagen Syndrome

Image of a child with loose anagen syndrome, displaying thin and uneven hair with noticeable areas of reduced density, a condition where hair easily pulls out due to improper anchoring of hair shafts in the follicles.

This condition, often seen in children, causes hair to detach easily during the growth phase.

Key signs: Hair falls out without pain or inflammation, leaving thin, uneven patches.

Treatments: Focus on gentle care with mild shampoos, a hair detangling brush, and protective hairstyles.

Palliative tips: Use silk or satin pillowcases to reduce friction during sleep.

✨ Personal note: Incorporating child-friendly hair products and adopting gentle grooming habits have been key. Loose braids or ponytails can help keep hair tidy while minimising friction and shedding. Avoid tight hairstyles that stress the scalp.

10. Frontal Fibrosing Alopecia (FFA)

"Image of a scalp affected by frontal fibrosing alopecia (FFA), showing a receding hairline with smooth, shiny skin on the forehead and temples, a condition often associated with scarring and permanent hair loss.

This is a scarring alopecia subtype that affects the hairline and temples, often seen in postmenopausal women.

Key signs: A receding hairline with smooth, scarred skin.

Treatments: Early intervention with anti-inflammatory therapies can prevent progression. Protect the scalp with gentle sunscreens to minimise damage and inflammation.

Palliative tips: Consider using lightweight, breathable headbands or scarves to protect sensitive areas from the sun and environmental irritants. Choose gentle hair care products that won’t irritate the scalp. Scalp massage with non-comedogenic oils like Rosehip Oil, can soothe dryness and promote circulation without clogging follicles.

✨ Personal note: Calypso Hair & Scalp Protection Spray SPF30 has been gentle and effective for sensitive scalps, providing protection without irritation.

11. Tinea Capitis (Scalp Ringworm)

Close-up image of a scalp with tinea capitis (scalp ringworm), showing a patch of scaly, flaky skin with hair breakage and mild redness, a fungal infection caused by dermatophytes.

This fungal infection leads to patchy hair loss and inflammation.

Key signs: Scaly, itchy patches on the scalp.

Treatments: Antifungal medications like terbinafine are necessary. Hygiene is critical.

Palliative tips: Use antifungal shampoos.

✨ Personal note: Ketoconazole Anti-Dandruff Shampoo 100ml contains ketoconazole, an antifungal ingredient that works wonders.

12. Diffuse Alopecia (Chronic Telogen Effluvium)

Image of a scalp showing diffuse alopecia (chronic telogen effluvium), characterised by widespread hair thinning and reduced hair density across the scalp, often associated with prolonged hair shedding due to underlying triggers such as stress, hormonal imbalances, or nutritional deficiencies.

This condition causes long-term diffuse thinning without visible patches.

Key signs: General thinning over months or years.

Treatments: Address underlying medical issues like iron deficiencies and focus on gentle hair care.

Palliative tips: Hydrate your scalp with moisturising shampoos and conditioners.

✨ Personal note: Pureology Hydrate Shampoo and Conditioner have been perfect for maintaining a healthy scalp.

13. Hair Shaft Disorders

Image of hair affected by a hair shaft disorder, showing uneven, brittle, and frayed strands with noticeable breakage and thinning, indicative of structural abnormalities in the hair fibre.

Conditions like monilethrix or trichorrhexis nodosa weaken hair strands, making them prone to breakage.

Key signs: Fragile, uneven hair that breaks easily, leading to thin or uneven hair length.

Treatments: Use protein-rich treatments, avoid excessive styling, and incorporate hydrating products to improve hair strength.

Palliative tips: Minimise mechanical stress by using a wide-tooth comb or hair detangling brush to gently manage hair. Opt for hairstyles that reduce friction, such as loose braids or buns, and avoid tight elastics. Use silk or satin pillowcases to prevent further weakening of hair strands during sleep. Deep conditioning masks and leave-in treatments can provide extra hydration and protection against environmental damage.

✨ Personal note: Olaplex No.3 Hair Perfector is my go-to for restoring my hair’s structure. Combined with gentle handling and sulfate-free shampoos, it has helped significantly reduce breakage.

14. Lichen Planopilaris (LPP)

Image of a scalp affected by lichen planopilaris (LPP), showing patchy hair loss with redness, scaling, and signs of inflammation, a scarring alopecia condition caused by an autoimmune response targeting hair follicles.

This scarring alopecia results in hair follicle inflammation and permanent hair loss.

Key signs: Itchy, painful scalp with patchy hair loss and scarring.

Treatments: Early treatment with a dermatologist is vital. Anti-inflammatory medications and immunomodulators can help control progression.

Palliative tips: Focus on soothing scalp care.

✨ Personal note: The Paul Mitchell Tea Tree Hair and Scalp Treatment is a fantastic option for soothing inflammation while leaving your scalp refreshed and balanced.

Take Action Today

Understanding the type of hair loss you’re experiencing can help you take charge of your hair journey. Whether it’s through lifestyle changes, treatments, or emotional support, there’s hope for a brighter, healthier hair future.

I hope this helps you understand your own hair journey better! If you have any stories or tips to share, feel free to leave a comment below.

Let’s support each other on this path!

Lots of love,
Kelly

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Published by Kelly | The Hairpath

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