How is hair loss treated?

Hair can shed after illness, major stress, childbirth or a change in nutrition, and growth may recover when the trigger settles. Pattern hair loss gradually reduces density at characteristic areas. Alopecia areata can cause smooth patches, while scalp ringworm may bring scale or broken hairs. Tight hairstyles can cause traction alopecia, which may become scarring if tension continues. A clinician may review the pattern, scalp, medicines, diet and recent health events, with blood tests or other tests when indicated.

Follow the plan for the cause found. This may mean correcting a confirmed nutritional problem, treating scalp infection, reducing traction, or using a medicine for pattern loss or alopecia areata. Gentle washing, adequate protein and avoiding repeated heat, bleaching or tight pulling protect vulnerable hair, but supplements are not a universal treatment. Cosmetic fibres, wigs or specialist restoration can improve coverage while medical treatment takes effect.

Book an assessment for sudden shedding, distinct bald patches, scalp pain, redness, scaling, pus, broken hairs or loss of eyebrows. Prompt review matters when hair loss is rapidly progressing or follows a new medicine, restrictive diet or significant illness.

Ask which pattern you have, whether the follicles look inflamed or scarred, which tests are useful, how long treatment should be tried, and what signs mean the diagnosis needs reconsideration.