Hair keeps falling out: what to know

Diffuse shedding after illness, major stress, or a body change can fit telogen effluvium. Gradual thinning at the hairline or crown may fit [Male Pattern Hair Loss](/conditions/androgenetic-alopecia/), while a widening part can occur with [Female Pattern Hair Loss](/conditions/female-pattern-hair-loss/). Smooth distinct patches suggest [Alopecia Areata](/conditions/alopecia-areata/). Repeated tension from tight styles can cause traction alopecia. Hair loss does not by itself reveal which pattern is present.

Use gentle washing and detangling, avoid tight styles and frequent high heat, and do not pull at loose hairs to test shedding. Take comparison photos in similar lighting and note recent illness, stress, medication changes, weight change, or restrictive eating. A clinician can examine follicles and hair shafts and decide whether further evaluation is needed. Discuss treatments only after the pattern is identified; [Finasteride Treatment](/treatments/hair-restoration/finasteride-therapy/) is not suitable for everyone.

Arrange an assessment for sudden or rapidly changing loss, bald patches, scalp scale, pain, redness, pus, or broken hairs. Seek prompt care if loss affects eyebrows or eyelashes or the scalp becomes swollen and tender. A specialist can also help if shedding is affecting daily life or remains unexplained.

Ask whether the problem is shedding, breakage, or follicle loss; what triggers are plausible; and which treatments match your health, medications, and goals. Ask how progress will be monitored.