Understanding Hair Thinning and Shedding
Thoughtful diagnosis and a personalized plan to support fuller, healthier hair.
Hair loss can feel alarming and deeply personal. Whether you are noticing a widening part, increased shedding in the shower, or patchy areas, the first step is clarity. We take a medical, lifestyle, and hair-care history; examine your scalp; and outline a plan that targets the specific cause rather than offering one-size-fits-all advice.
Fast Facts About Hair Loss
Common patterns: diffuse thinning, widening part, or patchy loss
Frequent drivers: hormones, stress, nutrition, thyroid, medications
Different types need different treatments—diagnosis matters
Meaningful improvement often takes 3–6 months of consistent care
Common Types We See
- Androgenetic alopecia (pattern thinning)
- Telogen effluvium (stress, illness, postpartum, medication shifts)
- Alopecia areata (autoimmune patchy loss)
- Traction alopecia from tight styles or extensions
- Scalp conditions (seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis) that impact growth
Why It Matters
Hair loss can signal shifts in hormones, iron status, thyroid function, or overall stress load. Identifying the pattern and contributors lets us choose interventions that protect follicles, calm inflammation, and support regrowth while we address underlying factors.
Evaluation & Workup
Your visit may include scalp and hair-shaft examination, review of hair-care practices, and targeted labs (for example iron studies, vitamin D, thyroid testing) when appropriate. In select cases, dermoscopy or referral for biopsy helps distinguish between overlapping conditions.
Medical Plan vs. Cosmetic-Only
Comprehensive Medical Plan
- Identifies the type and contributors of loss
- Combines scalp care, nutrition, and proven therapies
- Sets realistic timelines and tracks progress with photos
- Adjusts treatment as your hair and goals change
Cosmetic-Only Approach
- Covers rather than treats the cause
- May help appearance but not long-term density
- Misses medical triggers like iron or thyroid shifts
- Harder to sustain meaningful regrowth
Treatment Options
Plans are individualized and may include scalp hygiene and anti-inflammatory care, nutritional optimization (adequate protein, iron when indicated), low-level light therapy, minoxidil (topical or low-dose oral when appropriate), and anti-androgen strategies for selected patients. Procedural options such as microneedling or platelet-rich plasma may be discussed when they fit your pattern and goals.
What to Bring to Your Appointment
- ✓Timeline photos (front, crown, part) if available
- ✓List of medications, supplements, and recent health changes
- ✓Family history of hair loss and thyroid or autoimmune disease
- ✓Your typical hair-care routine and styling practices
- ✓Recent labs (iron studies, thyroid) if you have them
Frequently Asked Questions
1How long until I see results?
Most evidence-based treatments need consistent use for 3–6 months before visible change, with continued gains up to 12 months. We set checkpoints and compare standardized photos to track progress.
2Will treatments stop shedding right away?
Some therapies can cause a temporary increase in shedding as follicles shift into a synchronized growth cycle. This 'reset' phase typically settles within weeks and is a normal part of the process.
3Do I need lab work?
Targeted labs may be recommended based on your history and exam—commonly iron studies, vitamin D, and thyroid function. Addressing deficiencies can meaningfully support hair growth.
4Are medications safe?
Safety depends on the specific medication and your health profile. We review risks, benefits, and alternatives, and we avoid certain options if pregnancy is planned or possible.
5Can styling cause permanent loss?
Tight styles, frequent traction, or chemical damage can contribute to breakage or traction alopecia. Earlier changes are often reversible with style modifications; long-standing traction may scar follicles.
A Clear Plan for Stronger Hair
If you're noticing thinning or shedding, we'll help you understand the cause and choose a treatment path that fits your life.
Book an Appointment