Premature Hair Loss: What to Know

Gradual thinning at the temples or crown can fit Male Pattern Hair Loss or Female Pattern Hair Loss. Sudden smooth round patches may occur with Alopecia Areata. Diffuse shedding after illness, major stress, dietary restriction, or another body change can fit Telogen Effluvium. Broken hairs, scale, tenderness, or swollen areas need consideration of Scalp Ringworm. Tight braids, extensions, or repeated pulling can contribute to Traction Alopecia.

Take clear photos of the hairline, parting, and affected areas under similar lighting, and record when shedding began. Use gentle washing, limit heat and chemical processing, and avoid hairstyles that pull. A clinician may examine the scalp, review medicines and health changes, and arrange tests when the history suggests a nutritional, hormonal, or inflammatory contributor. Treatment should match the cause rather than the amount of hair seen in the brush.

Arrange medical review for rapid loss, painful or itchy scalp, scaling, pus, broken hairs, scarring, or loss of eyebrows or eyelashes. Seek prompt care when hair loss appears with weakness, unexplained weight change, or other new symptoms. Early assessment matters when inflammation or pulling may damage follicles, because stopping the trigger can be part of protecting remaining hair.

Ask which pattern you have, whether the scalp needs testing, what reversible triggers should be checked, and which options fit your age, medical history, and future plans.