Facing sudden hair loss? Dermat explains if it’s hair fall attack or hair cycle reset

From alopecia to telogen effluvium, here’s what you need to know about pattern hair loss and how to address it.

Not all hair loss demands a panic attack. While watching clumps of hair falling off the head can be very scary, not always it is harmful. In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr. Sheikh Naveed, consultant dermatologist and hair transplant surgeon, DermaFolix Skin and Hair Transplant Clinic, Srinagar said, “Sometimes, it’s not hair loss. It’s your scalp throwing a tantrum. A reset. Temporary chaos, not baldness.”

Bad fever, childbirth and stress can also trigger hair loss. (Shutterstock)

Telogen effluvium: What is it?

Sometimes, your body hits a stressor. It’s called Telogen effluvium, one of the most common and reversible hair conditions. A bad fever, crash dieting, childbirth, emotional meltdown, post-covid effects, low iron and skipping meals are some of the reasons of sudden hair loss.

“Telogen effluvium is temporary. It doesn’t cause bald patches or receding lines. Just general thinning. A bit everywhere,” the dermatologist added.

Androgenetic alopecia:

Also known as pattern hair loss, androgenetic alopecia creeps in slowly and doesn’t stop on its own.

The symptoms include hairline moving back, crown thinning, part widening for women and often, a family member with the same issue.

Androgenetic alopecia, commonly known as male or female pattern baldness, is a hereditary condition. (Pixabay)

When should you worry?

• Hair fall going strong for over 6 months
• Visible patches or bald spots
• Itchy, burning, or flaky scalp
• No clear reason why it’s falling

What works?

Start with tests - iron, vitamin D, thyroid, hormones. Topical Minoxidil, oral meds, supplements, PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma), GFC and Exosomes, next-gen therapies and JAK inhibitors are some of the treatments available to address sudden hair loss problems.

Hair transplant:

While hair transplant is not for everyone, in patterned hair loss, it is a game changer. “Hair loss isn’t a life sentence. Most of the time, it’s fixable. You just need the right plan. So, the next time your fingers pull out a clump, don’t assume the worst. Ask questions. Get answers. Because most likely it’s not the end, just a bump,” the dermat explained.

Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.