Conveniently located to serve Bend, OR, and Redmond
What is hair loss?
Hair loss (alopecia) is a common and frustrating condition; it is estimated that 50% of all men and 30% of all women will experience some form of hair loss by the time they reach age 50. Hair loss may result from one or a combination of several factors. Sorting out the cause(s) and developing the best treatment plan can be challenging.
What causes hair loss?
Some of the most common factors affecting hair growth include:
- genetics
- hormonal fluctuations
- aging
- nutritional / vitamin deficiencies
- inflammation
- medications
- medical conditions
- scalp infections
- stress
- childbirth
- toxins
- styling practices
Different stages of hair loss
The Norwood scale, also known as the Hamilton-Norwood scale, describes seven stages of hair loss that you may experience. The first stage shows no substantial hair loss and no visible receding hairline. You may notice some hair loss around your temples during Stage 2. This is known as an adult or growing hairline and is not yet significant.
At Stage 3, your hair loss becomes significant, and baldness becomes visible. Your hairline recedes dramatically at your temples, giving your hairline the appearance of the letters M, U, or V. In some areas of the scalp, your hair may be thinning.
Hair loss in Stage 4 manifests as little or no hair in the top center of your head, commonly known as the vertex. Hair loss occurs in the temples and crown of your head, but there is still a thin line of hair that separates the two locations. You also have normal-thick hair on the sides of your head.
If you are already in the fifth stage of your hair loss, the band of hair separating your temples and the crown of your head is smaller, and the hair becomes noticeably thinner. When you reach Stage 6, the distinct areas of hair loss are no longer separated by a thinning ring of hair. Your hair is either completely gone or quite sparse on top of your head.
How can a dermatologist help?
Because of the complexity of factors affecting hair growth, many physicians are not well versed in the diagnosis and treatment of the many different kinds of alopecia. Here at Deschutes Dermatology we understand your frustration and will work to give you a clear understanding of what’s going on and how to best treat it.
What treatments are available for hair loss?
Hair loss treatments can be classified into two main types: medical treatments, which are typically prescribed by a doctor, and lifestyle changes.
Potential treatments include:
- Rogaine (minoxidil)
- Propecia (finasteride)
- Aldactone (spironolactone)
- Plaquenil (hydroxychloroquine )
- Injections with anti-inflammatory cortisone
- Injections with PRP/PRF
- Anti-inflammatory scalp liquids
- Oral or topical antibiotics
- Dietary modifications
- Vitamins / minerals / supplements
- Stress reduction strategies
Hair loss prevention
There are many ways to help prevent hair loss, including the following:
- Avoiding hair dryers, curling irons, and other hot appliances
- Exercising regularly
- Eating healthy food
- Taking care of scalp health
- Avoiding products that contain alcohol or harsh chemicals
What should I expect?
Rather than making assumptions about the cause of your hair loss, we take a systematic approach starting with a detailed medical and dietary history. We’ll order lab tests when necessary and even perform a simple scalp biopsy if needed for more information. Once it’s clear what is going on, we will develop a comprehensive treatment plan to make sure you get the best result possible.
Schedule your consultation
If you want to learn more about hair loss in Bend, OR, contact our office today to schedule a consultation. Our skilled staff will be available to discuss your treatment options in greater detail.
