Hair Loss

Thinning hair, a receding hairline, and visible hair loss can significantly affect your self-esteem. At Dermatology and Skin Cancer Center in Clarkson, Washington, board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon Walter Williams, MD, has extensive experience helping patients achieve thicker, fuller hair. Call the dermatology clinic or schedule an appointment online today to learn more.

What is hair loss, and why does it happen?

Hair loss is a partial or complete loss of hair from areas of the scalp and body where it normally grows. It’s a complex symptom of many underlying conditions and can have various causes, including:

• Hormonal imbalances
• Stress
• Genetics
• Childbirth
• Birth control, antidepressants, and other medications
• Malnutrition
• Anemia
• Alopecia areata
• Autoimmune diseases
• Bacterial infections
• Tight hairstyles
• Excessive blow-drying, curling, or hair straightening

Identifying the underlying cause of hair loss is the first step in treating it. At Dermatology and Skin Cancer Center, Dr. Williams spends extra time with patients to determine the root cause of hair loss and develop a personalized treatment plan.

My hair is thinning. Do I have hair loss?

Thinning hair is a telltale sign of hair loss, but it can be temporary. Other common signs of hair loss include:

• Receding hairline
• Excessive hair shedding
• Widening part
• Bald patches
• Finer or more brittle texture
• Hair breakage
• Itchy, red, or flaky scalp

While the most noticeable signs of hair loss tend to affect the scalp, you may also experience thinning or balding eyebrows, eyelashes, or arm and leg hair.

How do doctors diagnose hair loss?

Dr. Williams performs a complete physical exam to investigate hair loss. First, he reviews your medical history to identify any factors that may increase your risk of hair thinning or balding. He also asks questions about your symptoms, like the duration and pattern of hair loss. Finally, he examines your scalp and hair follicles for sores, redness, inflammation, and infection signs.

The pull and tug test is one of the simplest tools to diagnose hair loss. Dr. Williams gently grabs and pulls a small section of hair to see how many strands come out. If more than six of about 40 strands loosen, you may have active hair loss.

Dr. Williams may also order blood tests, punch biopsies, and fungal cultures to determine your condition’s underlying cause.

I have hair loss. What are my treatment options?

Once Dr. Williams determines the cause of your hair loss, he can develop the appropriate treatment plan. The most effective treatments for hair loss and thinning include:

• Topical minoxidil
• Finasteride
• Oral spironolactone
• Hair transplant
• Dietary changes
• Supplements

Dr. Williams often takes a combination approach to treatment to ensure you achieve the best possible outcome. 

To learn more about treatments for hair loss, call Dermatology and Skin Cancer Center or schedule an appointment online today to learn more.