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The Types and Triggers of Alopecia: An In-Depth Look

Learn about the types of Alopecia, including triggers and causes, such as genetic, immune-based, and hormonal changes. Get the facts you need to know by georgialamb
Estimated reading time: 2 min 51 sec
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Alopecia refers to hair loss or baldness. It can affect any part of the body, including the scalp, eyebrows, and eyelashes. Many things can cause alopecia, and the condition can take various forms.

Understanding the different types and triggers of alopecia can help diagnose and treat the condition more effectively.

Types of Alopecia

Androgenetic alopecia

Androgenetic alopecia or male-pattern baldness is the most prevalent type of hair loss in men and women. It is characterized by a receding hairline and gradual thinning on the crown of the head.

It’s attributed to genetics and hormonal changes in the body. The hormone dihydrotestosterone (DHT) shrinks hair follicles until they no longer produce hair.

Alopecia areata

Alopecia areata is a condition that causes hair loss in small, circular patches on the scalp.

The exact cause of alopecia areata is unknown, but many scientists believe it is an autoimmune disorder that occurs when the body’s immune system attacks hair follicles. This form of alopecia can vary in severity and progress to complete baldness of the scalp.

Traction alopecia

Traction alopecia is a type of hair loss that occurs when the hair is repeatedly pulled too tight, damaging the hair follicles. It’s often seen in people who wear tight braids, ponytails, or hair extensions.

When left untreated, traction alopecia can lead to irreversible hair loss.

Scarring alopecia

Scarring alopecia is a rare type of hair loss that occurs when scarring damages hair follicles. It can be caused by skin conditions such as lupus or lichen planus or an injury to the scalp. Hair loss from scarring alopecia cannot be reversed.

Telogen effluvium

Telogen effluvium is a condition that causes sudden, diffuse shedding of hair due to a shock to the hair cycle. This shock can result from pregnancy, significant weight loss, surgery, or stress.

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Telogen effluvium usually resolves on its own within six months and does not result in permanent hair loss.

Triggers of Alopecia

Genetics

Genetics is a common trigger of different types of alopecia. Male-pattern baldness is more prevalent in individuals with a family history of the condition.

Additionally, alopecia areata has a genetic component, and a person is more likely to experience it if another family member has the condition.

Hormonal Changes

Alopecia may also be triggered by hormonal changes in the body. The hormone DHT, which is produced from testosterone, can trigger hair loss in men and women. Significant hormonal changes during pregnancy and menopause can also cause hair loss.

Autoimmune Diseases

Autoimmune disorders are thought to contribute to alopecia areata. In these disorders, the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s hair follicles or skin.

Autoimmune disorders like lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis, and Crohn’s disease can also cause scarring alopecia.

Physical Damage to the Hair

Poor hair grooming practices like tight braids, extensions, or improperly applied chemicals can damage the hair and lead to hair loss. Traction alopecia occurs when the hair is under constant strain, and follicles become damaged as a result.

Stress

Chronic stress can trigger the immune system to attack the body’s hair follicles, leading to alopecia areata. Additionally, people who experience acute, significant stress can experience telogen effluvium.

Conclusion

Alopecia is a common condition, and understanding the types and triggers can help diagnose and treat the condition more effectively. Although many types of alopecia cannot be cured, some can be managed with treatment.

It’s essential to seek professional medical advice if experiencing hair loss.

Disclaimer: This article serves as general information and should not be considered medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional for personalized guidance. Individual circumstances may vary.

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