Hair Loss Causes

     1.  Androgenic Alopecia (AGA) is the most frequent cause or hair loss in both men and women, in men it is also known as male pattern baldness.  This form of hair loss affects an estimated 35 million men in the united states today.  AGA can start as early as a person's teens and continue on with age, more then 50% of men over the age of 50 have some degree of hair loss.  Hair is lost in a well defined pattern above both temples, over time the hairline recedes to form an "M" shape.  Hair also thins at the crown near the top of the head, often progressing to partial or complete baldness.  Researches have determined that his form of hair loss is related to hormones called androgen's particularly one called dihydrotestosterone (DHT).

    2.  Alopecia Areata is considered an autoimmune disease, in which the immune system which is designed to protect the body mistakenly attack the hair follicles.  This can lead to hair loss in the scalp but may also occur in any hair-baring part of the body.  In most cases hair falls out in small, round patches the size of quarters.  Sometimes the disease does not extend beyond a few bare patches, but in some people the disease can lead to extensive hair loss.  Scientist do not yet know exactly when the hair follicles undergo these changes, but they suspect that a combination of genes may predispose some people to the disease.  Alopecia areata affects an estimated 4 million americans of both sexes and of all ages and ethnic backgrounds. 

    3.  Traction Alopecia is most typically associated with sustained tension on the scalp hair.  Traction causes hair to loosen from its follicular roots.  However, hair loss also occurs secondary to follicular inflammation and atrophy.  Hair loss is usually symmetric and along the frontotemporal hairline.  With persistent traction, the follicles atrophy and no longer produce the typical long and course hair.  Insted thinner, fine, short hair is generated.  In the United States this condition is most commonly seen in the African American population because of their practice of styling the hair in tight braids, hair rollers, weaves, twist, locks or "cornrows" and the use of chemical hair straighteners.  Traction alopecia has also affected people worldwide.  It's frequency usually depens on cultural customs.  Japanese women who wear traditional hairdo, Sikh men in India, and others who wear ponytails are examples of individuals who may be affected.

These are the most common types of hair loss that effect both men and women of Columbia, SC.  There are other causes of hair loss, but you need to see a physician hair loss specialist in South Carolina to receive a proper evaluation and diagnosis.  Call 386-216-5429 to find a hair loss specialist.