Hair loss in women - alopecia areata and other forms

When to see a dermatologist?

Hair loss is often harmless and temporary, but that's not always immediately apparent. Many women struggle with questions, uncertainty, or incorrect assumptions for too long. It's precisely at these times that a dermatologist can help by providing clarity and direction.

  • In summary

    • Hair loss deserves serious attention
    • Doubt is a good reason for judgment
    • Early recognition makes a difference
    • Expert guidance provides clarity and peace of mind
    • Hair loss can be a source of uncertainty. Good information and professional guidance can help you regain control.

Types of alopecia

  • Alopecia areata

    Alopecia areata is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks hair follicles.

    Features:

    • Sudden bald patches, usually around the crown or temples
    • Often symmetrical
    • Sometimes recovery is spontaneous, sometimes chronic
    • May be associated with nail abnormalities or other autoimmune problems
    • A dermatologist can help determine if treatment is necessary and what options are appropriate.

  • Other types of alopecia*

    • Alopecia Cicatricialis: Scarring alopecia in which hair follicles are irreparably damaged.
    • Frontal Fibrosing Alopecia (FFA): A form of scar-like hair loss that often affects the front hairline.
    • Traction Alopecia: Hair loss caused by constant tension on the hair.
    • Trichotillomania: Hair loss caused by compulsive pulling out of hair.
    * disclaimer - we provide a brief summary of forms of alopecia - for full information about these conditions we refer you to a specialist

When and from whom should you ask for advice?

  • When is it wise to ask for advice?

    It is advisable to consult a dermatologist if one or more of the following situations apply:

    • The hair gradually becomes thinner or loses volume.
    • The parting or hairline becomes visibly wider.
    • The hair loss lasts for more than six months.
    • Hair loss is increasing instead of decreasing.
    • There is doubt about the cause of the hair loss.
    • The hair loss is accompanied by other symptoms, such as itching, dandruff or inflammation.
    • The hair loss causes emotional or psychological distress.

    Even if you just want “security,” that’s a valid reason.

  • What can a dermatologist do for you?

    A dermatologist looks beyond just the hair loss itself.

    During an assessment, the following is taken into account, among other things:

    • the pattern of hair loss
    • the course over time
    • any hormonal or medical factors
    • previous treatments and expectations

    On this basis it is assessed:

    • whether there is temporary or permanent hair loss
    • whether treatment is useful
    • which approach best suits your situation

Why you shouldn't wait

  • Why not wait?

    • For some types of hair loss, such as hereditary hair loss , the sooner the right approach starts, the better the result.
    • Waiting or trying only cosmetic solutions can mean losing valuable time, while timely treatment can actually help preserve hair
    • Did you know?
    • Many women seek help for hair loss at a late stage
    • Uncertainty is often greater than necessary
    • A correct diagnosis can provide a lot of peace of mind
    • Good guidance increases therapy compliance and satisfaction

  • Where to go?

    Every hospital has a dermatology clinic, and there are also good online options for consultations with a Dutch dermatologist. See this page for options for in-hospital or online consultations.

This information was written by dermatologist M. van Coevorden for the Hair Guide for Women from 247dermatologist and used with permission - partly supplemented by the editorial staff of DermaDomein