According to the American Hair Loss Association, an estimated 35 million men and 21 million women in the US suffer from some form of hair loss—the scientific term for which is alopecia.
And while there are many different treatments that claim to prevent hair loss and regrow hair, it’s always best to exercise caution.
Awareness about the different types of alopecia can help you decide which treatment is right for (and which ones are definitely not) you. That’s why we’ve outlined some of the most common types of alopecia right here.
1. Alopecia Areata
Alopecia areata is an autoimmune disease that affects both men and women. It results in thinning hair around the crown and a resultant ‘U’ shape at the back and sides of the head.
Over time, that hair may fall too, leading to complete baldness. According to the National Alopecia Areata Foundation, it affects over 6.8 million people in the US.
2. Androgenetic Alopecia
Androgenetic alopecia—more commonly known as male pattern baldness—accounts for more than 95 percent of hair loss in men.
This type of alopecia is quite distinguishable as it results in hair loss that manifests in a characteristic ‘M’ shape. It can start as early as during one’s teenage years, and the risk increases with age. This type of alopecia is quite common among women as well, although it’s often limited to just thinning.
3. Alopecia Universalis
Alopecia universalis is an advanced form of Alopecia areata that results in complete loss of hair from the scalp and body.
It leaves certain sensitive areas of the body, such as the eyes and nasal cavity, completely exposed. People with this autoimmune disease should be very careful about protecting themselves.
4. Alopecia Totalis
Alopecia totalis causes a complete loss of hair from the scalp and face. It is a rare condition, and people’s genetics are usually responsible for its occurrence. Younger people are more likely to show symptoms if there is a history of alopecia in the family.
This condition affects men and women in equally and is more common in people that have other autoimmune diseases such as diabetes or thyroid issues.
5. Traction Alopecia
Traction alopecia is caused by continuous, long-term pulling force being applied to hair. For example, people who wear their hair in tight ponytails, braids, or particularly tight ‘cornrows’ might suffer from this condition. It can also be an outcome of cosmetic surgery—such as facelifts—that put additional pressure on the hair.
6. Chignon Alopecia
Chignon alopecia is characterized by hair loss on the crown of the head. This is common in people who wear tight buns, such as ballet dancers. It results from the traction induced by twisting the hair to uphold the bun.
Scalp micropigmentation (SMP) is becoming increasingly popular among people suffering from alopecia. While it doesn’t prevent hair growth or cause regrowth, it does give off the impression of thicker hair.
Many people opt for the procedure because it’s simple, effective, and yields quick results. If you’re thinking of getting SMP, Delaware Scalp Micropigmentation offers non-surgical hair loss treatment for men and women. Based in Delaware, we’re experts at using high-quality tools and natural pigments to help our clients achieve the look they want.
To learn more about our hair loss treatment services, call 302-292-0380, or visit our website.