Hair Loss Assessment & Treatment in Tenerife

Male pattern hair loss, also known as androgenetic alopecia, is the most common cause of progressive hair loss in men.

It typically begins with a receding hairline, thinning around the temples or gradual loss of density at the crown.

The condition is largely influenced by genetics and sensitivity of the hair follicles to androgens, particularly dihydrotestosterone (DHT).

Without treatment, the affected hair follicles may gradually become smaller, producing increasingly thin and short hairs.

We assess the pattern and progression of the hair loss and examine the scalp to determine whether androgenetic alopecia is the likely cause.

If the diagnosis is confirmed, available medical treatment options can be discussed based on the patient’s age, medical history and extent of hair loss.

Early assessment can be useful because treatment is generally aimed at preserving existing hair and slowing further progression.

Women can also develop androgenetic hair loss.

Unlike the typical receding hairline seen in men, female pattern hair loss often causes a gradual reduction in hair density across the top and central part of the scalp.

The central parting may become wider and the scalp may become increasingly visible.

Hormonal factors, genetics and age can all contribute.

We assess the pattern of thinning and examine the scalp to distinguish female pattern hair loss from other causes of diffuse hair loss.

Depending on the patient’s history and symptoms, laboratory investigations may also be recommended to identify hormonal, nutritional or metabolic factors that could be contributing.

An individual treatment plan can then be discussed based on the findings.

Some people notice a sudden increase in the amount of hair coming out when washing, brushing or simply running their hands through their hair.

One common cause is telogen effluvium, a temporary disruption of the normal hair-growth cycle.

It can occur several weeks or months after significant physical or emotional stress, illness, fever, surgery, rapid weight loss, pregnancy, nutritional deficiency or other major changes affecting the body.

The timing and pattern of the hair loss are assessed together with recent illnesses, medication, diet, stress and other possible triggers.

When indicated, laboratory testing can help identify underlying deficiencies or medical conditions.

Once the trigger has been identified and addressed, normal hair growth may gradually recover, although this process can take several months.

Alopecia areata is an autoimmune condition that typically causes sudden, clearly defined patches of hair loss.

It most commonly affects the scalp but can also involve the beard, eyebrows or other areas of the body.

The skin within the affected areas may appear completely normal despite the loss of hair.

We examine the pattern of hair loss and scalp to determine whether the findings are consistent with alopecia areata or another condition.

Depending on the extent and progression of the disease, different medical treatment options may be considered.

Additional investigations can also be recommended when there are signs of associated medical conditions.

Hair follicles require an appropriate supply of nutrients and are sensitive to changes within the body.

Hair loss may sometimes be associated with conditions such as:

• Iron deficiency
• Thyroid disorders
• Vitamin or nutritional deficiencies
• Hormonal changes
• Significant calorie restriction
• Rapid weight loss

Simply taking supplements without identifying an actual deficiency is not always the correct solution.

Your medical history, diet, symptoms and pattern of hair loss are assessed.

When clinically indicated, blood tests can be arranged to investigate possible nutritional, hormonal or metabolic causes.

Treatment can then focus on correcting an identified underlying problem rather than treating the hair loss alone.

Healthy hair growth also depends on a healthy scalp.

Inflammatory or infectious scalp conditions can cause itching, redness, scaling, irritation and sometimes hair loss. Possible conditions include:

• Seborrheic dermatitis
• Psoriasis
• Fungal infections
• Other inflammatory scalp disorders

Persistent scalp inflammation should be assessed, particularly when it is accompanied by noticeable hair loss.

We examine both the scalp and the affected hair to identify signs of inflammation, infection or another underlying skin condition.

Treatment is then directed at the underlying scalp disease.

Controlling inflammation or infection can be important for restoring a healthier environment for normal hair growth.

Not all apparent hair loss originates from the hair follicle itself.

Repeated tension from tight hairstyles, extensions or certain grooming practices can damage the hair and follicles. This is known as traction alopecia.

Chemical treatments, heat and mechanical damage can also cause the hair shaft to break, creating the appearance of thinning hair.

Long-term traction can eventually cause permanent damage to affected follicles.

We assess whether the reduced hair density is caused by true hair loss, hair breakage, traction or another underlying condition.

Identifying the cause early can help prevent further damage and determine whether medical treatment or changes in hair-care practices are required.