Temple hair loss: what to know

Gradual recession at both temples may occur with androgenetic alopecia, while a smooth, sharply defined patch can occur with alopecia areata. Tight hairstyles, extensions or repeated pulling can contribute to traction alopecia. Scaling, broken hairs, tenderness or swollen glands can point toward scalp ringworm and need medical treatment. Hair shedding that begins after illness, major stress, weight change or another trigger may fit telogen effluvium.

Look for clues rather than diagnosing from the hairline alone: note whether loss is sudden, itchy, scaly, painful, patchy, symmetrical or accompanied by loss elsewhere. Temple hair loss does not by itself identify one condition.

Arrange a scalp assessment if loss is new, progressing or difficult to explain. Bring a list of medicines and recent illnesses, and take clear photographs in similar lighting to show change over time. Loosen styles that pull on the hair, avoid harsh chemical processing on an irritated scalp, and use gentle washing.

A clinician may examine the scalp and hair shafts and decide whether testing or treatment is appropriate. Options depend on the cause; finasteride treatment is relevant only for selected patients and requires a discussion of suitability, possible effects and pregnancy-related precautions.

Seek prompt medical advice for rapidly expanding patches, scalp pain, pus, marked redness, heavy scaling, broken hairs, fever or swollen neck glands. Arrange assessment for eyebrow loss, nail changes or hair loss elsewhere, especially when the change is sudden. Early review matters when inflammation or infection may damage follicles.

Ask which pattern is visible, whether the follicles look inflamed or scarred, what recent triggers matter, whether tests are needed, which treatment fits the cause, and how progress should be photographed and reviewed.