By Dr Lynn Teo, Dermatologist. When you look into the mirror each day, and start to see signs of your hair thinning or even balding, it is normal to feel a sense of panic overwhelm you. Our hair is extremely important for our confidence, males and females alike. Unless you have been sporting the bald look all your life, losing your crowning glory is definitely not an easy thing to swallow. Imagine not being able to have a good hair day ever again. Hair loss, or alopecia, is a common problem and a huge source of distress for many people. It comes in various forms, with many different causes. Let’s talk about the common types of hair loss:
- Pattern Baldness
This is the most common type of hair loss. It follows a general pattern that progresses throughout the years and it affects mostly men, including Prince William! - Patch Baldness
When you see a sudden bald patch anywhere your body, it is likely that you are suffering from patch baldness. This happens very quickly — sometimes even overnight. - Shedding
Shampooing your hair notice large amounts of hair falling out? Or when combing your hair, you find that it seems to be very thin? This type of hair loss is usually temporary, and often caused by stress and diet. - Irreversible Balding
This type of hair loss is undoubtedly the most scary, simply because it is irreversible because your hair follicles (where hair grows out from) are damaged. This could be due to fungal infections, burns, or trauma. These four types are just a glimpse into the huge world of hair and hair loss. Just like the plentiful amount of hair that we all wish we would have forever, there are plenty of reasons and causes for hair loss. But the key takeaway is this: no, your hair is not gone forever. Even in the most severe of cases, hair transplant is available. What’s most important is that you see a specialist who can diagnose it correctly, and treat it accordingly.
If you would like to see a specialist regarding hair loss, call us at +65 6679 7867 or email us at customercare@tmcg.com.sg.
References
- http://hairfoundation.org/hair-library/article-hair-loss.htm
- http://www.alopeciaonline.org.uk/types-of-alopecia.asp
- http://dermatology.about.com/cs/hairloss/a/alopeciaareata.htm
- http://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/guide/alopecia-areata
- http://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/hair-loss/effluviums