Common Causes of Hair Loss in Men & Women

Tag Archives: telogen effluvium

Hair loss and thinning are common concerns affecting both men and women. At the Neiman Dermatology Building, we evaluate a variety of causes of hair loss and thinning, including androgenetic alopecia, telogen effluvium, hormonal hair loss, scalp conditions, and medication-related shedding.

Because some forms of hair loss can progress over time, early evaluation is often important for determining the most effective treatment approach.

Woman Inspecting Hair Loss

Androgenetic Alopecia

Androgenetic alopecia or pattern hair loss is the most common cause of hair thinning in both men and women and is influenced by genetics and hormones.

Common signs include:

  • Receding hairline
  • Thinning at the crown
  • Widening of the part
  • Diffuse thinning throughout the scalp

Treatment options include:

  • Minoxidil
  • Finasteride
  • Hair transplantation

Telogen Effluvium

Telogen effluvium or stress-induced hair loss is a temporary form of hair shedding that can be caused by illness, surgery, childbirth, rapid weight loss, and/or nutritional deficiencies.

Common signs include:

  • Increased shedding
  • Hair coming out excessively during brushing or washing
  • Diffuse thinning throughout the scalp

Hormonal, Nutritional, and Medical Causes

Hair thinning may also be associated with:

  • Menopause
  • Thyroid disorders
  • PCOS
  • Iron deficiency
  • Low vitamin D
  • Certain medications
  • Scalp conditions

Symptoms may include itching, burning, flaking, scalp tenderness, or progressive thinning.

When Should You Seek a Hair Loss Evaluation?

It may be time to schedule an appointment if you notice:

  • Sudden increased shedding
  • Progressive thinning
  • Bald patches
  • Receding hairline
  • Widening of the part
  • Changes in hair density

The team at the Neiman Dermatology Building provides personalized hair loss evaluations for men and women throughout Buffalo and Western New York.

With the widely successful release of Drake’s new album, ‘Certified Lover Boy’, the Canadian rapper seems to have everything going his way lately. But this was not the case in regards to his hair after a recent bout with COVID-19. He stated on his Instagram that the virus actually left him dealing with some hair loss.

“I had Covid that s— grew in weird. I had to start again 😂 it’s coming back don’t diss.”

– Drake (@champagnepapi) on Instagram

Drake Hair Loss

The most likely reason for the thinning could be attributed to a relatively common condition known as telogen effluvium. This temporary form of hair loss occurs when a stressor (ex. fever, illness, childbirth, or emotional stress) causes more hair than usual to fall out. During which, it is not unusual for large clumps of hair to come out at a time. Usually occurring about 2-3 months after the stressor event, it can last anywhere from 6-9 months. After that timeframe, the excessive shedding wanes and the hair reverts back to its previous thickness. It’s important to note, however, that if the stressor continues, so will the shedding.

So, it looks like Drake’s hair woes will be gone soon enough. If you believe that you may be experiencing telogen effluvium, contact our office today. Here at Lisa S. Ball NP, we specialize in diagnosing and treating diseases of the hair, skin, and nails.