3 Types of Hair Loss and Treatments That Work

Thinning hair is a common concern and, as dermatologists told the Washington Post, there are three frequently diagnosed patterns with distinct causes and evidence-based treatments. Identifying whether you have pattern hair loss, shedding from stress or illness, or autoimmune patchy loss is essential: the right diagnosis directs treatment and improves outcomes. This guide explains the differences and outlines proven options so you can discuss them confidently with a clinician.

Androgenetic alopecia: pattern hair loss

Also known as male- or female-pattern hair loss, androgenetic alopecia is the most common form of chronic thinning. It presents as a widening part, thinning at the crown, or a receding hairline in men; in women the pattern is usually diffuse thinning across the top of the scalp.

Evidence-based treatments include:

• Topical minoxidil: the most widely recommended over-the-counter therapy; promotes regrowth and slows progression when used consistently.
• Oral finasteride: effective in many men by inhibiting the hormone that shrinks hair follicles; not suitable for those who are pregnant or may become pregnant.
• Anti-androgens for women: agents such as spironolactone are prescribed off-label for some women under specialist supervision.
• Surgical options: hair transplant surgery can provide durable results for suitable candidates.
• Adjunctive therapies: low-level laser therapy and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) are increasingly offered; evidence is growing but varies between individuals.

Management usually combines medical treatment with lifestyle measures and realistic expectations; long-term maintenance is often required to keep results.

Telogen effluvium: diffuse shedding after a trigger

Telogen effluvium is characterised by sudden, diffuse shedding rather than discrete patches. It commonly follows stressors such as severe illness, major surgery, childbirth, rapid weight loss, new medication or nutritional deficiency. The hair moves prematurely into the resting (telogen) phase and falls out weeks later.

Typical approach:

• Identify and address triggers: reassess recent health events, medications and diet. Treat underlying conditions such as thyroid disease or iron deficiency.
• Reassurance and time: for many people acute telogen effluvium improves within 3–6 months once the trigger resolves.
• Supportive treatments: targeted supplementation when deficiencies are documented (eg iron, vitamin D) and topical minoxidil may be considered if shedding persists.
• Referral: chronic telogen effluvium or uncertain diagnosis should prompt a dermatologist or trichologist review.

Because hair growth cycles are slow, visible recovery can lag behind improvements in health by several months.

Alopecia areata: autoimmune patchy loss

Alopecia areata causes well-demarcated, often round patches of hair loss and can progress to total scalp loss (alopecia totalis) or whole-body loss (alopecia universalis) in severe cases. It arises when the immune system targets hair follicles.

Treatment is tailored to extent and activity:

• Intralesional corticosteroid injections: a first-line option for limited patchy disease, administered by a clinician.
• Topical corticosteroids and contact immunotherapy: used in certain cases to alter the immune response at the scalp.
• Systemic therapies and JAK inhibitors: newer systemic agents can be effective for more extensive disease but require specialist oversight due to risks and licensing considerations.
• Supportive care: cosmetic camouflage, wigs and scalp care are important for quality of life while medical therapy takes effect.

Alopecia areata is unpredictable; some people experience spontaneous regrowth, while others need longer-term management under dermatology care.

How to get the right diagnosis

Because treatments differ markedly between these conditions, an accurate diagnosis is the first step. Practical measures include:

• Book a clinical assessment with a dermatologist or experienced trichologist.
• Bring a detailed history: timing of onset, recent illnesses, medications, family history and scalp photos if helpful.
• Expect tests where indicated: blood tests for thyroid function, ferritin (iron stores) and other nutritional markers, and in some cases a scalp biopsy.
• Discuss safety and expectations: some treatments require monitoring, contraception for those of childbearing potential, or specialist prescribing.

Takeaway

Three common diagnoses—pattern hair loss, telogen effluvium and alopecia areata—account for most thinning hair presentations, and each has evidence-based options. Early assessment by a clinician, targeted tests and a personalised plan give the best chance of slowing loss and encouraging regrowth. Treatments range from topical minoxidil and oral finasteride to intralesional steroids and specialist systemic therapies; lifestyle and nutritional factors also matter.