What should you know about coin size bald spot?

Alopecia areata commonly creates a smooth, sharply defined patch without obvious scale. Scalp ringworm may cause broken hairs, scaling, tenderness, itching, or swollen areas. Tight hairstyles, repeated pulling, chemical processing, or rubbing can also reduce hair in a local area. Redness, pustules, pain, crusting, or a shiny surface may suggest inflammation or scarring and should be assessed promptly.

Look at the skin rather than judging the cause from size alone. Record whether the patch appeared suddenly, whether eyebrows or other body hair are changing, and whether there is a family or personal history of autoimmune or scalp problems.

Handle the area gently, pause tight styles and harsh chemical treatments, and avoid picking or vigorous brushing. Do not share combs, hats, pillows, or towels if scaling or broken hairs raise concern about infection. A clinician may examine the scalp with magnification, check nearby hairs, or arrange testing before choosing treatment. Hair products cannot treat an untreated scalp infection.

Arrange an assessment for a new bald patch, especially if it is enlarging, multiplying, itchy, scaly, painful, or associated with broken hairs. Seek prompt care for pus, marked tenderness, fever, or a boggy swollen area. Earlier review matters when the scalp looks shiny or scarred because some forms of hair loss can damage follicles.

Ask whether the patch looks smooth or inflamed, whether fungal testing is appropriate, what styling changes could help, and when regrowth should be reviewed.