Hair LossThe American Academy of Dermatology has designated August as Hair Loss Awareness Month. About 35 million men and 21 million women in the US suffer from hair loss. Hair loss can have a profoundly negative effect on social, personal and professional life.

Common types of hair loss include:

Androgenetic Alopecia: Also called pattern alopecia, this is the most common form of hair loss and affects both men and women. It is a genetically determined disorder and the symptoms change according to one’s gender. Male pattern baldness is characterized by loss of hair on the top and front of the head. Female pattern baldness is characterized by loss of hair on the top and crown of the head. This hair loss in women usually starts in the central part without affecting the frontal line.

Traction Alopecia: This hair loss is produced by constantly pulling the hair, by wearing the same hairstyle daily or using weaves. This type of hair loss can be avoided by taking care of your hair and protecting it from damage.

Alopecia Areata: This type of hair loss occurs when your immune system mistakenly attacks hair follicles, which is where hair growth begins. Experts do not know why the immune system attacks the follicles. Alopecia areata is most common in people younger than 20, but children and adults of any age and gender may be affected.

Based on your individual situation, you have several options to solve hair loss issues including surgery, laser treatment, topical treatments, hormones and hair building fibers.

While hair loss is a year-round struggle for many, hair loss awareness month is an opportunity to inform and educate those who want to learn more about the condition. If you have noticed thinning, shedding or balding hair, contact The Center for Advanced Dermatology at 602-867-7546 or mddermsolutions.com to schedule a hair loss evaluation with Dr. Holy.