Losing Hair on Your Head: What to Know

Hair that thins gradually at the temples, hairline, or crown can fit male or female pattern hair loss. Noticeable shedding after an illness, major stress, weight change, or childbirth can fit telogen effluvium, in which more hairs enter a resting phase and fall later.

Smooth, sharply defined bare patches can occur with alopecia areata. Broken hairs, scale, tenderness, or swollen areas may point toward scalp ringworm or another scalp problem. Tight braids, extensions, buns, or frequent pulling can cause traction alopecia, especially along the hairline.

Take clear scalp photographs in the same lighting and record when shedding began, whether it is diffuse or patchy, and any recent illness, stress, diet change, new medicine, or hairstyle. Handle wet hair gently, avoid tight styles and harsh chemical processing, and eat regular meals with adequate protein.

Arrange a clinician or dermatologist assessment if the change persists, spreads, or worries you. Examination of the scalp and hair pattern helps separate shedding from follicle damage; treatment depends on that finding rather than on hair fall alone.

Seek prompt medical advice for rapidly expanding patches, scalp pain, pus, marked redness, thick scale, fever, or swollen areas. Book an appointment for sudden clumps of shedding, eyebrow or eyelash loss, or visible scarring, because early assessment can protect affected follicles.

Ask: Does my pattern suggest shedding, inherited thinning, inflammation, or traction? Could a scalp examination or blood test help find a contributing problem? Which treatments are suitable for my health history, and how should progress be monitored?