• Androgenetic alopecia (female/male pattern baldness) is the most common type of hair loss. This type of hair loss presents differently in men and women. Men can start to see this type of hair loss soon after they reach puberty, and it progresses over time. It is possible for men to eventually become completely bald. For women, however, this type of hair loss results in significant thinning of the hair, but rarely leads to complete baldness.

• Anagen Effluvium is rapid hair loss triggered by medications and treatments such as chemotherapy that prevent hair follicle production, sometimes poisoning the follicle. Cancer medications are powerful and often effective in killing cancerous cells. However, as they attack all quickly forming cells, they tend to also stop hair follicle production. Once the medical treatment is completed, this type of hair loss is usually reversed. Once the treatment is complete, the hair follicles are usually restored and grow back on their own, though physicians can prescribe certain medication to speed up the process.

• Telogen effluvium occurs when a significant number of follicles enter the telogen phase, but the anagen phase doesn’t begin. This type of hair loss is typically triggered by medical conditions or events such as fever, surgery, or childbirth, but may also be the result of vitamin or mineral deficiencies.

• Tinea Capitis, also referred to as scalp ringworm, is caused by a fungal infection on the scalp. Though this condition is more commonly seen it children, it can affect adults as well. Tinea capitis causes hair to fall out in patches, resulting in bald spots that can increase in size over time. The affected areas typically exhibit red, scaly skin that can be itchy. Early treatment is crucial for tinea capitis, as it is highly contagious and can spread rapidly through contact with contaminated objects or skin. Treatment options include antifungal medication, medicated shampoo, and oral medication. With appropriate treatment, hair regrowth is possible.

• Cicatricial alopecia, also known as scarring alopecia, is a rare type of hair loss that occurs when inflammation destroys hair follicles and scar tissue replaces them, preventing hair regrowth. This condition can result from a variety of causes, including autoimmune disorders, infections, trauma, and certain medications. The onset of cicatricial alopecia may be gradual, with symptoms going unnoticed. However, sudden hair loss can also occur. This hair loss subtype affects both genders and can occur at any age. Symptoms of this condition include itching, burning, and tenderness of the scalp, as well as hair loss that may be accompanied by redness, scaling, or pus-filled bumps. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent further damage and preserve existing hair. Treatment options include topical and oral medications, injections, and in severe cases, hair transplant surgery.

• Traction alopecia, also known as cosmetic hair damage, is a type of hair loss resulting from excessive tension and pulling on the hair – often from hairstyling and use of treatment. The constant pulling can damage the hair follicles, leading to hair loss that may be permanent if left untreated. Symptoms of traction alopecia include a receding hairline, thinning hair, and bald spots around the hairline and temples. Early intervention is essential to prevent further damage and promote hair regrowth. However, hair loss can become permanent if scarring develops. Treatment options include changing hairstyles to reduce tension on the hair, using hair growth products, and in severe cases, hair transplant surgery.