Understanding the Different Types of Hair Loss in Men and Women
Hair loss affects millions of men and women worldwide, and while it’s often viewed as a cosmetic concern, it can significantly impact self-esteem and quality of life. From gradual thinning to sudden shedding, there are several distinct types of hair loss, each with unique causes and treatment considerations.
Understanding the type of hair loss one is experiencing is essential before exploring options like PRP hair restoration, topical treatments, or lifestyle changes. This guide outlines the most common types of hair loss in both men and women, supported by current medical research and clinical observations.
Androgenetic Alopecia (Pattern Hair Loss)
Androgenetic alopecia, also known as male pattern baldness or female pattern hair loss, is the most widespread form of hair loss. It is hereditary and strongly influenced by hormones—particularly dihydrotestosterone (DHT).
In men, androgenetic alopecia usually begins with a receding hairline or thinning at the crown, while in women it presents as diffuse hair thinning across the top of the scalp, often sparing the frontal hairline.
Studies have linked DHT to progressive hair follicle miniaturisation, resulting in thinner, shorter hairs over time. While genetics play the primary role, hormonal changes—such as those related to menopause or polycystic ovary syndrome—can accelerate this process in women.
This type of hereditary hair loss in men and women is often long-term, but treatment options like PRP hair regrowth therapy, low-level laser therapy, and topical minoxidil have shown positive results in slowing its progression.
Telogen Effluvium
Telogen effluvium is a temporary, stress-related form of hair shedding that typically occurs 2–3 months after a triggering event. These events may include:
Physical or emotional trauma
Major surgery or illness
Postpartum hormonal changes
Crash dieting or nutritional deficiencies
Sudden medication changes
In this condition, a significant number of hairs prematurely enter the telogen (resting) phase, causing noticeable thinning. Unlike pattern baldness, telogen effluvium often involves diffuse hair loss across the scalp rather than patchy or receding areas.
Fortunately, this form of stress-related hair loss is usually reversible. Many people experience postpartum hair shedding or telogen effluvium after illness and recover within several months, especially when nutritional and lifestyle factors are addressed.
Traction Alopecia
Traction alopecia occurs when the hair is subjected to continuous tension, pulling, or friction. It’s most often caused by tight hairstyles such as:
Ponytails, braids, and buns
Hair extensions and weaves
Excessive use of rollers or chemical straighteners
Traction alopecia is commonly seen around the hairline and temples, where prolonged pulling damages follicles over time. If caught early, removing the tension typically leads to regrowth. However, in chronic cases, permanent follicle damage can occur.
Hair loss from tight hairstyles disproportionately affects women, particularly in communities where certain styles are more common. Early intervention is key to preventing long-term thinning.
Alopecia Areata
Alopecia areata is an autoimmune condition in which the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own hair follicles, leading to patchy bald spots. This can happen suddenly, without warning, and affects people of all ages.
In most cases, alopecia areata causes smooth, round patches of hair loss, often on the scalp but sometimes on eyebrows, eyelashes, or other parts of the body. More severe forms include alopecia totalis (complete scalp hair loss) and alopecia universalis (total body hair loss).
While the exact cause remains unknown, genetic and environmental factors appear to play a role. Treatments such as corticosteroid injections, topical immunotherapy, and even PRP injections have been explored with varying levels of success.
Comparison of Common Types of Hair Loss in Men and Women
| Type of Hair Loss | Key Characteristics | Causes | Pattern of Hair Loss | Is It Reversible? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Androgenetic Alopecia | Gradual thinning; miniaturised follicles; runs in families | Genetics, hormones (DHT) | Receding hairline (men), diffuse thinning (women) | Partially, with long-term treatment |
| Telogen Effluvium | Sudden shedding; increased daily hair loss | Stress, illness, childbirth, poor diet | Diffuse thinning all over scalp | Yes, often within 6 months |
| Traction Alopecia | Thinning near temples and hairline; broken hairs | Tight hairstyles, prolonged tension | Localised to areas under tension | Yes, if caught early |
| Alopecia Areata | Round or oval bald patches; sudden onset | Autoimmune response | Patchy bald spots on scalp or body | Sometimes; varies case by case |
| Other Causes | Varies—dry scalp, dull hair, breakage, or inflammation | Nutritional deficiencies, thyroid issues, medications | Depends on underlying condition | Often reversible with treatment |
Other Common Causes of Hair Loss
In addition to the four primary types outlined above, several other factors can contribute to hair thinning or shedding in both men and women:
Nutritional deficiencies (e.g., low iron, vitamin D, zinc)
Thyroid dysfunction
Fungal infections or seborrheic dermatitis
Medications such as chemotherapy, antidepressants, or anticoagulants
Poor scalp health, including inflammation and blocked follicles
Addressing these root causes can support scalp rejuvenation and create a healthier environment for hair regrowth.
How to Tell the Difference Between Hair Loss Types
Recognising whether hair loss is:
Gradual or sudden
Diffuse or localised
Reversible or progressive
…can help narrow down the diagnosis. A proper consultation with a dermatologist or trichologist, along with blood tests and scalp assessments, is often needed to confirm the type of hair loss disorder.
Treatments may include topical therapies, oral medication, non-surgical hair restoration options, or regenerative approaches like platelet-rich plasma therapy for hair loss.
Final Thoughts
Hair loss can be emotionally challenging, but understanding its root cause offers clarity and direction. Whether it’s androgenetic alopecia, telogen effluvium, traction alopecia, or alopecia areata, recognising the pattern is the first step toward effective treatment.
Thanks to advances in regenerative medicine, nutrition, and scalp science, many men and women are now able to manage or reverse their hair loss with targeted therapies. From DHT-related hair loss to autoimmune conditions like alopecia areata, modern treatments are more personalised, less invasive, and increasingly successful.
With the right diagnosis and tailored support, thicker, healthier hair may be closer than ever before.