Symptoms of alopecia

Hair loss (alopecia) is a fairly common occurrence. While it’s more prevalent in older adults, anyone can experience it, including children. It’s typical to lose between Hair loss can develop gradually over years or happen abruptly. Depending on the underlying cause, it may be temporary or permanent. Trying to tell if you’re actually losing hair or just experiencing some normal shedding? Unsure if it’s time to see a doctor? Read on for more information about hair loss and how to manage it. The main symptom of alopecia is losing more hair than usual, but this can be harder to identify than you might think. The following symptoms can provide some clues: • Widening part. If you part your hair, you might start to notice your part getting wider, which can be a sign of thinning hair. • Receding hairline. Similarly, if you notice your hairline looking higher than usual, it may be a sign of thinning hair. • Loose hair. Check your brush or comb after using it. Is it collecting more hair than usual? If so, this may be a sign of hair loss. • Bald patches. These can range in size and can grow over time. • Clogged drains. You might find that your sink or shower drains are clogged with hair. • Pain or itching. If you have an underlying skin condition causing your hair loss, you might also feel pain or experience itching on your scalp. There are several types of hair loss, some are common and some are rarer, and each with different underlying causes. Depending on the type of hair loss, i...

Welcome! Diseases & conditions • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Featured Natalie tried many acne products without success. Find out how a board-certified dermatologist helped Natalie see clear skin before her wedding. JAK inhibitors are helping patients with alopecia areata, eczema/atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, and vitiligo. Here’s what you need to know. Everyday care • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Featured Everyone's at risk for skin cancer. These dermatologists' tips tell you how to protect your skin. Find out what may be causing the itch and what can bring relief. Darker Skin Tones • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Featured Find out why dark spots appear and what can fade them. If you have what feels like razor bumps or acne on the back of your neck or scalp, you may have acne keloidalis nuchae. Find out what can help. Cosmetic treatments • • • • • • • Featured You can expect permanent results in all but one area. Do you know which one? If you want to diminish a noticeable scar, know these 10 things before having laser treatment. It can smooth out deep wrinkles and lines, but the results aren’t permanent. Here’s how long botox tends to last. Public health programs • • • • • • • • • • • Featured Use these professionally produced online infographics, posters, and videos to help others find and prevent skin cancer. Free to everyone, these materials teach young people about common skin conditions,...