About this symptom
Losing a certain number of hairs each day is part of a normal growth cycle. A noticeable increase in shedding during washing or combing, a widening hair part or new areas without hair may suggest a change in the growth cycle or a scalp disorder. One loose hair cannot reveal the cause.
Possible causes and features
Possible explanations include temporary telogen shedding after illness or substantial stress, hereditary pattern thinning, alopecia areata and inflammatory or fungal scalp conditions. Hair shaft breakage is not the same as shedding hair from the follicle, and the investigations can differ.
During assessment, tell the dermatologist when changes began and about family history, recent illnesses, medications, tight hairstyles and previous hair treatments. The clinician evaluates the distribution of thinning, scalp condition and hair shafts. Trichoscopy, an examination under magnification, may help characterize the findings.
Clinical assessment and next steps
Blood tests for possible nutritional deficiencies or endocrine disorders, or referrals to another specialist, are selected only when the history and examination justify them. Not everyone needs the same laboratory panel.
Treatment depends on the diagnosis: it may involve managing scalp inflammation, observing a temporary shedding episode or discussing appropriate therapy for a form of alopecia. Avoid starting hormones, supplements or advertised growth products without establishing the cause.
Related topics: Seborrheic scalp dermatitis; Trichoscopy of the hair and scalp.
Signs and symptoms
- More hairs than usual after washing or on a hairbrush.
- A widening part line or overall reduction in hair density.
- Rounded bald patches or broken hair shafts.
- Itching, redness or flaking of the scalp.
Diagnosis and tests
The dermatologist assesses the pattern and distribution of hair loss, the scalp, hair shafts and follicular openings. Trichoscopy and, if indicated, laboratory evaluation for deficiencies or endocrine problems may be advised. Tests are selected individually.
Care and treatment approaches
The plan may include treatment of scalp inflammation, observation of temporary shedding or targeted therapy for a diagnosed alopecia. Products that help one type may be ineffective in another. Do not start hormonal medications or supplements solely on the basis of advertising.
When to seek urgent care
Rapid onset of a painful swollen or pus-filled scalp lesion, fever or severe illness requires urgent in-person assessment. For impaired consciousness or breathing call 103 in Ukraine. Gradual uncomplicated hair thinning is not, by itself, an emergency.
Frequently asked questions
Does hair loss always mean vitamin deficiency?
No. Causes are varied, and laboratory tests should be chosen after the examination and medical history.
What is trichoscopy used for?
Magnification helps examine hair shafts, follicular openings and scalp changes as an adjunct to the clinical examination.
Can I immediately buy a hair-growth treatment?
First establish the type of hair loss; a product that helps one condition may not help another.
Important information
A medical consultation is needed for diagnosis and treatment recommendations.
Self-treatment can be harmful to your health.
