What should you know about receding hair loss?

Androgenetic alopecia can gradually narrow hairs around the temples or front. Female pattern hair loss often affects the central part and top, while the front may appear less dense. Telogen effluvium can cause increased shedding after a physical or emotional stressor, making the hairline seem thinner. Alopecia areata may create smooth patches, and scalp ringworm can bring scale, broken hairs, or inflammation. Repeated pulling may cause traction alopecia.

Record whether hairs are shedding from the root or breaking near the scalp, and photograph the same areas over time. Use gentle washing and avoid tight styles while arranging a clinical assessment. A dermatologist may examine the scalp with magnification, review recent health changes and medicines, and consider treatment such as finasteride therapy when the diagnosis and medical history support it.

Seek prompt care for sudden or rapidly spreading loss, discrete smooth patches, scalp pain, marked itch, scaling, pus, broken hairs, or loss of eyelashes or eyebrows. These features can point away from simple gradual pattern thinning and may need targeted treatment.

Ask what the timing and distribution suggest, whether blood tests or a scalp sample are warranted, and what improvement would look like. Discuss the expected review schedule, medication precautions, and how to protect hair from traction or breakage during treatment.