Hair Loss

What is Hair Loss?

Hair loss, or alopecia, refers to the partial or complete absence of hair from areas where it normally grows. It can affect the scalp, eyebrows, eyelashes, or body hair and may occur suddenly or progressively over time.

There are many types of hair loss, including:

• Androgenetic Alopecia – Also known as male or female pattern hair loss. This is the most common type, with a genetic and hormonal basis.

• Telogen Effluvium – A temporary condition where stress, illness, or medication disrupts the normal hair growth cycle, causing diffuse shedding.

• Alopecia Areata – An autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks hair follicles, leading to round patches of hair loss.

• Scarring Alopecias – A group of conditions that destroy hair follicles and replace them with scar tissue.

• Traction Alopecia – Hair loss caused by prolonged tension from hairstyles like tight ponytails, braids, or extensions.

Causes of Hair Loss

There are many possible causes of hair loss. These include:

• Genetics and family history

• Hormonal changes (e.g., menopause, thyroid disorders, post-pregnancy)

• Nutritional deficiencies (e.g., iron, zinc, protein)

• Stress or major illness

• Medications (e.g., chemotherapy, certain acne or blood pressure medications)

• Autoimmune conditions

• Scalp infections (e.g., fungal infections)

• Poor scalp hygiene or harsh hair treatments

Identifying the underlying cause is key to selecting the most effective treatment.

Diagnosis

At Shine Dermatology, a detailed consultation is the first step. Your dermatologist will assess your medical history, perform a scalp and hair examination, and may conduct:

• Trichoscopy – A magnified visual assessment of hair shafts and follicles.

• Scalp biopsy – To investigate scarring alopecia or autoimmune disease.

• Blood tests – To check for hormonal imbalances, vitamin and mineral deficiencies, or autoimmune conditions.

• Hair pull test – To evaluate active hair shedding.

Hair Loss Treatment Options

Treatment is tailored to the type and severity of hair loss, as well as individual needs. Options include:

1. Topical Treatments

• Topical Minoxidil – Stimulates hair growth and slows progression in both men and women.

• Anti-inflammatory scalp lotions – Useful for inflammatory and autoimmune scalp conditions.

2. Oral Medications

• 5-alpha reductase inhibitors – Help reduce hormone-related hair loss in men (prescription required).

• Oral supplements – May include iron, biotin, zinc, vitamin D, or amino acids, depending on blood test results.

• Immunosuppressive medications – For conditions like alopecia areata, under specialist supervision.

3. In-Clinic Treatments

• Scalp Injections – Anti-inflammatory injections for alopecia areata.

• Microneedling with Hair Serums – Enhances penetration of growth factors and stimulates scalp circulation.

• Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) – A non-invasive light therapy that improves hair density and thickness over time.

• Exosome Scalp Therapy – Exosomes are cell-derived vesicles containing growth factors and signaling molecules. Applied via microneedling or direct scalp application, they may help promote hair follicle regeneration and improve scalp health. This emerging treatment is used in selected patients and is part of our personalised regenerative protocols.

4. Lifestyle and Haircare Advice

• Avoid heat styling, harsh chemical treatments, and tight hairstyles.

• Use gentle, scalp-friendly shampoos and conditioners.

• Address stress and maintain a healthy, balanced diet.

When to See a Dermatologist

Seek professional evaluation if you experience:

• Sudden or patchy hair loss

• Excessive daily shedding

• Thinning that’s worsening over time

• Scalp irritation, scaling, or discomfort

• Hair loss after a stressful event or illness

Early diagnosis improves outcomes. Delaying treatment may reduce the effectiveness of therapy, especially in scarring alopecias.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is hair loss reversible?
It depends on the cause. Non-scarring hair loss types (like telogen effluvium and androgenetic alopecia) often improve with early treatment. Scarring types are harder to reverse, making early diagnosis crucial.

Can I use over-the-counter treatments?
Some may help, but results are often limited without medical evaluation. Using the wrong products may worsen the condition.

How soon can I see results from treatment?
Most treatments take 3–6 months to show visible improvement. Hair growth is a slow process that requires consistency.

What are exosomes and how do they help with hair loss?
Exosomes are biologically active messengers that may support hair follicle repair and regeneration. They are used in selected patients as part of regenerative hair restoration therapy. Your dermatologist will assess if this treatment is suitable for your type of hair loss.

Is hair transplant surgery an option?
Hair transplants may be considered for stable pattern hair loss that hasn’t responded to medical treatment. A consultation can help determine if you’re a suitable candidate.

If you're struggling with hair loss, let our dermatologists help you uncover the cause and develop a customised plan to restore your hair and confidence.

Book a consultation at Shine Dermatology today.