Hair Loss

Hair loss may affect any part of your skin, but it’s most noticeable on the scalp. You can have hair loss from many causes, some causes are temporary while others are more permanent. Adam Whittington, MD, and providers at Whittington Dermatology in Munster and Hobart, Indiana, provide expert care and treatment for hair loss no matter the cause. To get help for your hair loss, call the office or schedule an appointment online today.

What is hair loss?

Normally, you lose 50 to 100 hairs a day. You have hair loss when the amount of hair you lose exceeds the rate at which it grows back, leading to hair thinning that affects appearance.

Hair loss may occur on any part of your body, including your scalp, eyebrows, or arms.

Hair loss is common and may occur from any number of factors. Finding the root cause of your hair loss is important for getting the right treatment. There are effective treatments for any type of hair loss, but it works best when initiated early.

What causes hair loss?

Many diseases and situations cause hair loss. Your hair thinning may be due to:

Hereditary hair loss

Hereditary hair loss is the most common cause, affecting men and women. This type of hair loss causes male- and female-pattern baldness. 

Age

Your hair naturally thins and loses its color as you get older.

Alopecia areata

Alopecia areata is an autoimmune condition in which the immune system attacks and destroys the hair follicles. This condition causes hair loss all over the body.

Medication

Certain medication and medical treatments may lead to hair loss such as chemotherapy for cancer. 

Nutritional deficiencies

Not eating a balanced diet with an adequate supply of nutrients may also cause you to lose your hair.

Infection

Fungal infections can affect hair growth and cause hair loss. 

Other factors

Your hairstyle and stress may also cause you to lose hair faster than it grows.

What happens during a hair loss evaluation?

Whittington Dermatology takes a patient-centered approach to care. When you visit the dermatology practice for help with hair loss, your provider aims to find the root cause of your condition so you get the best possible care.

During your exam, the dermatologist reviews your symptoms, medical history, family history, and examines your skin and scalp. They may take a biopsy of your skin to confirm or rule out the cause of your hair loss. 

What are the treatments for hair loss?

Treatment for hair loss depends on the cause. However, hair loss tends to respond best when you get treatment during the early stages. Whittington Dermatology creates individualized treatment plans that might include:

• Minoxidil 
• Finasteride
• Laser therapy
• Microneedling with platelet-rich plasma (PRP)
• Hair transplant
• Change in hair style or hair products

Hair loss is a common problem. No matter the cause, it’s possible to restore hair growth and health.

Call Whittington Dermatology or schedule your hair loss consultation online today.