Diagnosis and Treatment

Doctors diagnose male-pattern or female-pattern baldness according to its typical appearance.  The causes of other types of hair loss are determined by observation and a series of tests when necessary.  Hair shafts are usually examined under a microscope or a biopsy of the skin is performed. A biopsy helps determine if the hair follicles are normal.  When they are not, the biopsy can reveal possible causes.  Blood tests may be needed when the doctors see signs of hormonal irregularities or other serious illnesses.

Some cases of male-pattern or female-pattern baldness can be effectively treated with drugs such as Minoxidil and Finasteride. Minoxidil stimulates and supports hair growth when applied directly to the scalp daily.  Finasteride works by blocking the effects of the male hormones on the hair follicles when taken orally.  Improvements derived from taking drugs such as these may be seen after several months of taking or using them.  However, the effects last only as long as the drugs are taken.  Preventing further hair loss is probably the most important effect of these drugs.

A more permanent solution is presented by hair transplantation.  This is a process where hair follicles are removed from one part of the scalp and transplanted to the bald area.  Wigs offer the best solution for Toxic Alopecia since it generally resolves itself after the toxic substance is discontinued.  Alopecia Areata can be treated with corticosteroids which are typically injected under the skin of the bald patch.  Finding the cause of habitual pulling of hair and resolving it is the key to the treatment of Trichotillomania.  Causes of scarring in the scalp may be treated but hair growth is unlikely when an area is fully scarred.