Hair loss affects millions of men and women. Understanding causes and degrees of hair loss is essential for managing and intervening effectively. There are over 200 different diagnoses related to hair loss. A Board-Certified Dermatologist is the only true expert physician with expertise and training in diagnosis and treatment of all diseases of hair. A consultation and examination with a board-certified dermatologist to determine the diagnosis is essential before any initiation of treatment. One of the most common diagnoses of hair loss is androgenetic alopecia or male/female pattern hair loss. Scales such as the Ludwig scale for women and the Norwood scale for men are frequently used to classify the stages of androgenetic alopecia. Knowing these phases helps determine the severity of hair loss and facilitates the search for effective therapies. It is important to note that early diagnosis and therapeutic intervention can save hair. Therefore it is crucial to have proper assessment by an expert Board Certified Dermatologist to begin appropriate therapy.
Below are the typical stages of androgenetic (Pattern) alopecia. Depending on your severity, location, stage, and diagnosis , your Dermatologist will determine the best treatment modalities for your hair loss. Treatments vary from topical, oral , prescription, injectable, lab adjustments, immunomodulatory medications, and/or hair transplantation.
Phase 1: Early Hair loss
People don’t seem to lose any hair in the early stages. There are no indications of thinning or receding of the natural hairline. The underlying process is there with the correct genetic predispositions, however clinical thinning has not started yet.
Stage 2: Minimal Hair Loss
The second phase is when the hair thinning really become apparent. Around the temples, the hairline starts to slightly recede. Even though the alterations are slight, they represent the beginning of the loss of hair. It is imperative to keep an eye out for any new developments.
Stage 3: Mild to Moderate Hair Loss
The hair loss is more noticeable by stage 3. The hairline is more deeply receding around the temples, and the frontal and temporal regions are also seeing thinning. This stage frequently marks the beginning of clinically visible female- or male-pattern hair loss.
Phase 4: Notable Hair Loss
Stage 4 sees a sharper increase in hair loss. The hair bridge that divides the frontal and top areas narrows as the thinning continues to the crown of the head. At this point, people might observe more visible scalp and think about hair restoration methods.
Phase 5: Profound Hair Loss
The severity of hair loss increases at this point. The hair strip that separates the frontal and crown regions gets thinner. Around the temples and crown, there is significant thinning, making it difficult to hide the loss with conventional haircuts. At this point patients may consider multiple modalities such as hair transplantation.
Making informed decisions through knowledge
At Mays Dermatology, every visit is performed by our Dual Board Certified Dermatologist. Dr. Mays has extensive experience and research in hair loss disorders and lectures on the topic nationally. She will perform a through examination and analysis of hair including potential biopsy and lab interpretation to determine the best treatment for your specific hair loss. Dr. Mays combines the latest advanced technologies and prescription oral and topical treatments as well as injection therapy, exosome therapy, and/or hair transplantation for the best treatment results
