Alopecia In Men And Women

Alopecia is a hair loss condition that affects up to 80 million men and women in the United States. While hair loss is the common factor for both men and women when it comes to this condition, the symptoms and causes may differ beyond that. In addition, the amount of hair loss varies from person-to-person, no matter what sex you are.

Alopecia in Men

Another term for androgenetic alopecia in men is “male pattern balding.” For men, testosterone hormones can cause hair follicles to have a shorter growth phase. The hair shafts become abnormally short and thin. The reasons for why you may have alopecia may not be fully understood. Genetic background can have a strong influence on your development of androgenetic alopecia. It also may be due to a sensitivity to a hormone called DHT, which may cause your hair follicles to shrink. Men’s hair loss is generally in the crown and frontal area of your scalp. The hairline may regress around your temples as well. The loss may create an M-shape on the top of your head.

Alopecia in Women

Another term for androgenetic alopecia in women is “female pattern hair loss.” Just like with men, your genetics may play a strong role in why you have it. Abnormal levels of androgens in your blood can play a role as well. Medications, illnesses, infections and chemicals can stop the growth of hair. It’s more common for women in their 50s or 60s to lose hair, but it can happen at any age. Women’s hair tends to thin on the top third to one half of the scalp. The part may also begin to widen and your scalp may be more visible when your hair is pulled back.

No matter if you’re a woman or a man, it’s important to diagnose why your hair loss is happening. Our experts at Medical Dermatology Specialists will give you an accurate diagnosis and provide you with a personalized treatment plan to stop or slow your hair loss. Call and book your appointment with Dr. Weisman today!