Starting with the basics. Hair loss on the scalp or elsewhere on the body is referred to as alopecia in medical. There are so many forms of hair loss that the term “alopecia” is used to describe that it’s difficult to be more specific. So, here are the primary types.

Androgenic Alopecia

• The Symptoms:A receding hairline, thinning hair on the head, or both.
• The Prognosis: Although there is no cure, medication can keep the condition from worsening.
• The Treatment Plan: Minoxidil, an over-the-counter topical therapy, and the prescription drug finasteride.

Alopecia areata

• The Symptoms:Patchy baldness as a result of hair loss.
• The Prognosis: here is no cure, but hair follicles can regrow if given the right care.
• The Treatment Plan: Inflammation can be reduced using minoxidil, oral immunosuppressants, topical corticosteroids, and corticosteroid injections. You can also use aromatherapy to ease the symptoms.

Alopecia Totalis

If left untreated, alopecia areata can progress to alopecia totalis, a severe form of hair loss. That’s the point at which your entire head of hair falls out. Slow or fast, this hair loss can occur.

Alopecia Universalis

Alopecia areata with this stage of development is quite unusual. As a result of Alopecia Universalis, your eyebrows and eyelashes will be bald.

Alopecia barbae (a.k.a. beard alopecia)

• The Symptoms:Your beard is thinning in spots.
• The Prognosis: If you don’t continue therapy, your hair may stop growing or re-fall out.
• The Treatment Plan: Minoxidil, corticosteroids, or home remedies like garlic gel can all be used.

Cicatricial Alopecia

• The Symptoms:Scalp thinning that produces unsightly marks on one’s skin.
• The Prognosis: Unfortunately, it is impossible to stop this type of hair loss.
• The Treatment Plan: Minoxidil can help grow hair that has been damaged and prevent additional damage.

Postpartum Alopecia

• The Symptoms:Approximately two to three months after giving birth, women will begin to lose their hair noticeably.
• The Prognosis: Hair loss can’t be stopped, but after a few months, it normally returns to normal.
• The Treatment Plan: Check to see if you’re suffering from any nutritional issues contributing to your hair loss.

Traction Alopecia

• The Symptoms:Some hair loss around the temples and a receding hairline (and a penchant for tight braids)
• The Prognosis: Traction alopecia, if left untreated, can lead to irreversible hair loss.
• The Treatment Plan: Go to a salon!

This condition happens when you have braids or other tight hairstyles for a long time and damage your hair so much that it can’t be fixed. You won’t get this from braiding your hair now and then, but if your hairline is starting to move back, it might be time to try a less complicated style.

There are many kinds of alopecia, but the most common is androgenic alopecia, also called male pattern baldness. Considered to be a sign of male pattern baldness due to hair loss? A doctor can help you figure out what’s wrong and start you on the way to good treatment.