Common Types of Hair Loss
Hair loss presents differently depending on its underlying cause. Understanding your type of hair loss helps guide treatment decisions.
Hair loss affects millions of people, regardless of age or gender. Whether you’re experiencing a receding hairline, thinning crown, or diffuse shedding across your scalp, understanding what’s causing your hair loss is the first step toward finding an effective solution. At Lickstein Plastic Surgery in Palm Beach Gardens and Jupiter, we help patients understand their hair loss and explore hair restoration treatment options tailored to their unique situation.
- Understanding Hair Loss: The Basics
- Common Types of Hair Loss
- Root Causes of Hair Loss
- When to Seek Professional Evaluation
- The Emotional and Social Impact of Hair Loss
- Diagnosing Hair Loss
- Hair Loss Treatment Options
- Lifestyle Factors That Support Hair Health
- Hair Loss in Different Populations
- Frequently Asked Questions About Hair Loss
The Hair Growth Cycle
Hair grows in three distinct phases:
Anagen (Growth Phase)
This is the active growth phase, lasting 2-7 years. During this time, hair grows approximately half an inch per month. About 85-90% of your hair is in this phase at any given time.
Catagen (Transition Phase)
This brief transition phase lasts 2-3 weeks. Hair stops growing and the follicle begins to shrink.
Telogen (Resting Phase)
The resting phase lasts 2-4 months. The old hair remains in the follicle while a new hair begins to grow beneath it. When the new hair emerges, the old hair sheds naturally. It's normal to lose 50-100 hairs per day during this phase.
When this cycle functions normally, you maintain consistent hair density. However, when follicles spend too long in the resting phase or shrink prematurely, you experience noticeable hair loss.
How Much Hair Loss Is Normal?
Losing 50-100 hairs per day is completely normal. However, if you notice any of the following, it may indicate excessive hair loss:
- Excessive shedding in the shower or on your pillow
- Widening part line
- Thinner ponytails
- Visible scalp showing through hair
- Hair loss that occurs suddenly or rapidly
- Patchy hair loss or bald spots
Androgenetic Alopecia (Pattern Hair Loss)
Androgenetic alopecia, commonly called male pattern baldness or female pattern hair loss, is the most common type of hair loss, affecting approximately 80 million Americans.
In Men:
Male pattern baldness typically begins with a receding hairline or thinning at the crown. Hair loss follows predictable patterns and can progress to significant baldness if untreated.
In Women:
Female pattern hair loss usually presents as diffuse thinning across the entire scalp rather than distinct bald patches. Women often notice widening parts and reduced hair volume.
Cause:
Androgenetic alopecia is driven by genetics and hormones. People with this type of hair loss have hair follicles that are sensitive to DHT (dihydrotestosterone), a hormone derived from testosterone. In genetically predisposed individuals, DHT causes hair follicles to shrink, a process called miniaturization. Smaller follicles produce thinner, shorter hairs until eventually they stop producing visible hair.
Telogen Effluvium (Stress-Related Hair Loss)
Telogen effluvium occurs when a significant physical or emotional stressor pushes a large number of hair follicles into the resting phase prematurely.
Common Triggers:
- Severe psychological stress
- Major surgery or illness
- Rapid weight loss or crash dieting
- Hormonal changes (pregnancy, menopause, thyroid disorders)
- Nutritional deficiencies
- Certain medications
- High fever or infection
Characteristics:
Hair loss typically appears 2-3 months after the triggering event. Patients notice diffuse shedding across the entire scalp rather than localized bald patches. The good news is that telogen effluvium is usually temporary and reversible if the underlying cause is addressed.
Alopecia Areata
Alopecia areata is an autoimmune condition where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks hair follicles, causing sudden hair loss.
Characteristics:
- Patchy, round bald spots on the scalp
- Can progress to total scalp hair loss (alopecia totalis) or loss of all body hair (alopecia universalis)
- Often begins suddenly
- May be preceded by stress or illness
Prevalence:
Alopecia areata affects approximately 2% of the population and can develop at any age, though it’s more common in people under 40.
Traction Alopecia
Traction alopecia results from prolonged tension on hair follicles, typically from tight hairstyles.
Common Causes:
- Tight ponytails or braids
- Hair extensions
- Tight buns or cornrows
- Frequent hair pulling (trichotillomania)
Characteristics:
Hair loss occurs along the hairline and areas of tension. In early stages, traction alopecia is reversible if the tension is removed. However, prolonged traction can cause permanent follicle damage.
Scarring Alopecia
Scarring alopecia, also called cicatricial alopecia, occurs when inflammation destroys hair follicles, leaving scar tissue in their place.
Causes:
- Severe scalp infections
- Scalp injuries or burns
- Certain inflammatory scalp conditions
- Surgical complications
Characteristics:
Hair loss is permanent in scarring alopecia because the follicles are destroyed. Early treatment of underlying scalp conditions is essential to prevent progression.
Root Causes of Hair Loss
Hair loss rarely results from a single cause. Understanding the factors contributing to your hair loss helps guide treatment decisions.
Genetic Factors
If your parents or grandparents experienced hair loss, you’re more likely to as well. Genetics determine your hair follicles’ sensitivity to DHT and your overall hair growth patterns.
Hormonal Changes
Hormonal fluctuations can trigger or accelerate hair loss:1
Menopause and Perimenopause
Declining estrogen levels during menopause can shift hair growth cycles, leading to increased shedding and reduced hair density.
Postpartum Hair Loss
After pregnancy, hormonal shifts can push a large percentage of hair into the resting phase, causing noticeable shedding 2-3 months postpartum. This typically resolves within 6-12 months.
Thyroid Disorders
Both hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism can disrupt hair growth cycles. Even subclinical thyroid dysfunction (where blood tests are technically “normal” but thyroid function is suboptimal) can contribute to hair loss.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
PCOS causes elevated androgen levels, which can trigger or worsen androgenetic alopecia in women.
Nutritional Deficiencies
Hair growth requires adequate nutrition. Deficiencies in the following nutrients are linked to hair loss:2
Iron
Iron deficiency is one of the most common nutritional causes of hair loss, particularly in women. Ferritin levels below 40 ng/mL are associated with diffuse hair shedding.
Zinc
Zinc is essential for hair growth and immune function. Deficiency can cause telogen effluvium and slow hair regrowth.
Vitamin D
Low vitamin D levels are associated with various types of hair loss, including androgenetic alopecia and alopecia areata.
B Vitamins
B vitamins, particularly B12 and folate, are essential for cell division and hair growth. Deficiency can slow hair cycling.
Protein
Hair is primarily composed of protein. Inadequate protein intake can weaken hair and slow growth.
Copper and Magnesium
These minerals support hair pigmentation and follicle function.
Stress
Psychological stress can trigger telogen effluvium, pushing hair follicles into the resting phase prematurely. Chronic stress also elevates cortisol levels, which can interfere with hair growth cycles and exacerbate androgenetic alopecia.3
Medical Conditions
Several medical conditions are associated with hair loss:
- Thyroid disease (hypo- and hyperthyroidism)
- Autoimmune conditions (alopecia areata, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis)
- Anemia
- Diabetes
- Scalp infections (fungal or bacterial)
- Skin conditions (psoriasis, eczema, seborrheic dermatitis)
Medications
Certain medications can trigger hair loss as a side effect:
- Blood pressure medications (beta-blockers, ACE inhibitors)
- Antidepressants (SSRIs)
- Anticoagulants
- Chemotherapy drugs
- Retinoids
- Immunosuppressants
Hair Care Practices
How you care for your hair affects its health:
Heat Styling
Excessive blow drying, flat ironing, and curling can damage hair shafts and cause breakage.
Chemical Treatments
Harsh chemical treatments, relaxers, and permanent waves can weaken hair and cause breakage or traction alopecia.
Tight Hairstyles
Tight ponytails, braids, buns, and extensions create tension on follicles, potentially causing traction alopecia.
Poor Scalp Care
Infrequent washing, product buildup, and scalp irritation can impede hair growth.
When to Seek Professional Evaluation
You should consult a healthcare provider about hair loss if you experience:
- Sudden hair loss
- Excessive shedding lasting more than 3 months
- Patchy or localized hair loss
- Hair loss accompanied by scalp pain, itching, or burning
- Hair loss following a major life event or illness
- Concern about your appearance or quality of life
The Emotional and Social Impact of Hair Loss
Hair loss affects more than just appearance, it can impact confidence and quality of life. Many people experiencing hair loss report increased anxiety and social withdrawal.
At Lickstein Plastic Surgery, we understand that hair loss is deeply personal. Our team approaches every patient with empathy and takes time to listen to your concerns and goals. You’ll be heard and guided toward solutions that address both your physical and emotional needs.
Diagnosing Hair Loss
A thorough evaluation helps identify the cause of your hair loss and guide treatment decisions.
Medical History
Your healthcare provider will ask about:
- When your hair loss began
- Whether it’s gradual or sudden
- Family history of hair loss
- Recent stressful events, illnesses, or surgeries
- Current medications and supplements
- Dietary habits and nutritional concerns
- Scalp symptoms (itching, pain, flaking)
- Hair care practices
Physical Examination
Your provider will examine your scalp and hair, assessing:
- Hair loss pattern and distribution
- Hair shaft quality and thickness
- Scalp health and any signs of inflammation or infection
- Signs of traction or trauma
Diagnostic Testing
Depending on your presentation, your provider may recommend:
Blood Tests
Blood work can identify nutritional deficiencies, thyroid dysfunction, hormonal imbalances, and autoimmune conditions contributing to hair loss.
Scalp Biopsy
A small scalp sample examined under a microscope can help diagnose certain types of hair loss, particularly scarring alopecia or alopecia areata.
Pull Test
Your provider gently pulls on a small section of hair to assess how many hairs are in the resting phase.
Dermoscopy
A specialized magnifying device allows detailed examination of hair and scalp structure.
Hair Loss Treatment Options
If you’re experiencing hair loss, several treatment approaches are available. At Lickstein Plastic Surgery in Palm Beach Gardens and Jupiter, we offer advanced hair restoration options to address hair loss:
Non-Surgical Approaches
Exosome Therapy
Exosomes are tiny extracellular vesicles derived from stem cells that contain powerful growth factors and regenerative compounds. When applied to the scalp, exosomes stimulate hair follicles and promote natural hair growth. This non-invasive treatment can be used alone or combined with other approaches to enhance results.
Topical and Prescription Medical Treatments
Some patients may benefit from medical therapies designed to slow ongoing hair loss and support existing hair. Depending on your goals and medical history, your provider may discuss options such as topical minoxidil (Rogaine®) or prescription treatments like finasteride for appropriate candidates. These therapies are often used as part of a long-term plan—either on their own in earlier stages of hair loss or to help maintain results after in-office treatments.
Surgical Hair Restoration
For patients with significant hair loss, surgical hair restoration offers permanent results. Advanced robotic technology allows precise extraction and placement of individual hair follicles.
ARTAS Robotic Hair Restoration
The ARTAS system uses artificial intelligence and precision imaging to identify and extract individual hair follicles with exceptional accuracy. This minimally invasive approach results in no linear scarring and high graft survival rates.
NeoGraft Hair Transplant Technology
NeoGraft combines automated graft extraction with manual implantation by your surgeon, offering a hybrid approach that provides excellent results with minimal downtime.
For detailed information about surgical hair restoration options, including procedure details, recovery timelines, and candidacy, visit our Hair Restoration page.
Combination Approaches
Often, combining treatments produces superior results. For example, exosome therapy may be used before or after surgical hair restoration to support scalp health and optimize outcomes. In some cases, topical or prescription medical therapies may also be recommended to help preserve existing hair in non-transplanted areas. Your surgeon will recommend the best approach based on your specific hair loss pattern and goals.
Lifestyle Factors That Support Hair Health
While not a substitute for medical treatment, certain lifestyle practices support overall hair health:
Nutrition
Eat a balanced diet rich in protein, iron, zinc, vitamin D, and B vitamins. Consider foods like eggs, fish, nuts, leafy greens, and legumes.
Stress Management
Practice stress-reduction techniques such as exercise, meditation, yoga, or counseling. Chronic stress can worsen hair loss.
Sleep
Prioritize 7-9 hours of quality sleep nightly. Sleep is essential for cellular repair and hormone regulation.
Scalp Care
Use gentle, sulfate-free shampoos. Avoid excessive heat styling and tight hairstyles. Massage your scalp regularly to improve circulation.
Hydration
Drink adequate water daily. Hydration supports overall health, including hair growth.
Avoid Smoking
Smoking impairs blood circulation and can accelerate hair loss.
Exercise
Regular physical activity improves circulation, reduces stress, and supports overall health.
Hair Loss in Different Populations
Hair Loss in Men
Men are more likely to experience androgenetic alopecia, which can progress rapidly. Surgical hair restoration offers permanent results for men with significant hair loss.
Hair Loss in Women
Women often experience diffuse thinning rather than distinct bald patches. Hormonal changes, nutritional deficiencies, and stress are common triggers. Women are excellent candidates for both non-surgical and surgical hair restoration options.
Hair Loss in Older Adults
Hair naturally thins with age due to declining growth factor production and hormonal changes. However, excessive hair loss in older adults may indicate underlying medical conditions or medication side effects that warrant evaluation.
Is hair loss hereditary?
Yes, genetics play a significant role in androgenetic alopecia. If your parents experienced hair loss, you're more likely to as well. However, genetics isn't destiny, and early intervention can slow or prevent significant hair loss.
Can stress cause permanent hair loss?
Stress-related hair loss (telogen effluvium) is usually temporary and reversible once the stressor is removed or managed. However, chronic stress can exacerbate androgenetic alopecia and other types of hair loss.
Does wearing hats cause hair loss?
Wearing hats doesn't cause hair loss unless they're extremely tight and create constant tension on hair follicles (traction alopecia). Normal hat wearing is safe.
Can hair loss be reversed?
Some types of hair loss are reversible if the underlying cause is addressed. Telogen effluvium, nutritional deficiency-related hair loss, and early-stage androgenetic alopecia may improve with treatment. However, advanced androgenetic alopecia and scarring alopecia may require surgical intervention.
How long does it take to see results from hair loss treatment?
Results vary by treatment type. Exosome therapy shows improvement within 3-6 months. Surgical hair restoration results develop over 9-12 months as transplanted hair reaches mature length and density.
Are hair loss treatments permanent?
Surgical hair restoration provides permanent results because transplanted hair comes from genetically resistant donor areas. Non-surgical treatments like exosome therapy may require maintenance sessions to sustain results.
Can I combine different hair loss treatments?
Yes. Combining treatments often produces superior results. For example, exosome therapy can complement surgical hair restoration. Your surgeon can recommend the best combination for your situation.
Do medications like minoxidil (Rogaine®) or finasteride really work?
For some patients, topical or prescription treatments may help slow hair loss and support existing hair—especially when started early. Results vary based on the cause of hair loss, consistency of use, and individual factors. During your consultation, we can discuss whether medication may be appropriate and how it may fit into your overall treatment plan.
Where can I find hair loss treatment near me in Palm Beach Gardens or Jupiter?
Lickstein Plastic Surgery offers comprehensive hair loss evaluation and treatment options at our Palm Beach Gardens location, conveniently serving patients throughout Jupiter, West Palm Beach, and South Florida. Our board-certified surgeons specialize in advanced hair restoration using ARTAS and NeoGraft technology, as well as non-surgical exosome therapy. Schedule your consultation today to discuss your hair loss and explore treatment options.
About Lickstein Plastic Surgery
At Lickstein Plastic Surgery in Palm Beach Gardens and Jupiter, we help patients understand their hair loss and explore treatment options. Whether you're interested in non-surgical exosome therapy or surgical hair restoration, our board-certified plastic surgeons and experienced team are here to guide you.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn which hair loss treatment is right for you.
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2 Almohanna HM, Ahmed AA, Tsatalis JP, Tosti A. The Role of Vitamins and Minerals in Hair Loss: A Review. Dermatol Ther (Heidelb). 2019 Mar;9(1):51-70. doi: 10.1007/s13555-018-0278-6. Epub 2018 Dec 13. PMID: 30547302; PMCID: PMC6380979. Available: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30547302/. Accessed December 22, 2025.
3 Malkud S. Telogen Effluvium: A Review. J Clin Diagn Res. 2015 Sep;9(9):WE01-3. doi: 10.7860/JCDR/2015/15219.6492. Epub 2015 Sep 1. PMID: 26500992; PMCID: PMC4606321. Available: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4606321/. Accessed December 22, 2025.
4 U.S Food and Drug Administration. Risks and Complications of Breast Implants. Available: https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/breast-implants/risks-and-complications-breast-implants. Accessed August 12, 2025.
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