What patients notice
Common signs and descriptions
- More hair on the pillow or shower drain
- Reduced ponytail thickness
- Visible scalp
- A changing hairline
Hair Loss & Scalp
Hair Loss
A starting point for understanding persistent shedding, thinning and changes in hair density.
In plain language
What this term means.
Hair loss describes a reduction in hair number or density. It can be temporary or progressive, diffuse or patterned, and may arise from more than one factor at the same time.
Possible explanations
Different causes can look similar
- Pattern hair loss
- Temporary shedding after illness or stress
- Nutritional or medical factors
- Inflammatory or patchy hair-loss conditions
Professional assessment
How a consultation may clarify the concern.
History of onset, shedding pattern, medicines, nutrition, illness and family history
Scalp and hair-shaft examination, with tests considered only when the clinical picture indicates them
Treatment approach
Options follow the diagnosis
- Treat the identified cause and protect remaining hair
- Discuss medical, scalp-support or restoration pathways only after diagnosis
Avoid
What not to do
- Do not start multiple supplements or prescription products without assessment
- Avoid tight hairstyles, harsh traction and repeated aggressive scalp procedures
Care
Useful next steps
- Use gentle scalp care and record the timing of major health or medication changes
- Photograph the same areas in similar light monthly rather than checking repeatedly each day
Frequently asked
Questions to take into consultation.
A photograph can document appearance but may not show texture, depth, scalp findings or warning signs. A diagnosis and personalised plan may require history and in-person examination.
Not usually. The appropriate pathway depends on the cause, severity, skin or hair characteristics, previous treatment, medical suitability and the result you hope to achieve.
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