Alopecia is the loss or thinning of hair. There are two main types of alopecia:
• “Scarring”, in which hair follicles are destroyed
• “Non-scarring”, which can be reversed because there are still hair follicles within the skin.
The use of the words “scarring” and non-scarring” can be confusing and misleading because they do not necessarily mean that there will be visible scars on the scalp.
Androgenic alopecia, commonly referred to as “male pattern baldness”, is the most prominent type and affects up to 70% of men and 40% of women.
Non-scarring alopecia involves hair loss either all over or in certain areas, a receding hairline, broken hair, as well as possibly some loss of eyelashes or eyebrows or other body hair.
Scarring alopecia occurs in only particular areas and can include inflammation and follicle loss toward the center of lesions, violet-colored skin abnormalities, and scaling.
Non-scarring alopecia can be caused by certain drugs, medical conditions such as autoimmunity and iron deficiency, stress, pregnancy, pulling at your own hair, and poor diet.
Scarring alopecia can be caused by skin disorders, diseases, or bacterial infections.
What can be done?
The primary goal is to identify the underlying cause of your hair loss and to treat it and correct any damage. Treatments vary per person and can include vitamins, medications such as Minoxidil, laser therapy, hair replacement systems, and surgical placement of hair follicles.
If you have symptoms associated with hair loss, you should seek professional help. A physical inspection of your hair and scalp will help identify the type of hair loss.
Keep in mind, if you’re experiencing hair loss, never diagnose yourself. The best thing you can do is see a hair expert. Contact New England Associates® today. At New England Associates®, how you feel about your hair loss and making the right choice to solve it matters. We encourage you to take the time and review your options then come in for a no-cost, no-obligation private hair loss consultation.
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Since 1982 New England Associates® has known hair loss is as individual as you are. New England Associates® offers all of the procedures that work to repair, replace, restore, and grow hair. We are members of the American Hair Loss Council and the Better Business Bureau. Locations include Wakefield, MA and Manchester, NH. Our hair restoration options include hair and scalp treatments, non-medical hair replacement, laser hair therapy treatments, hair transplants, and shampoos and vitamins for fine and thinning hair.