Can a Dermatologist Help with Hair Loss?

Hair loss is a common issue that affects nearly 80% of men and about half of women during their lifetime. It often leads to thinning hair, noticeable bald spots, and changes in appearance that can be both frustrating and emotionally challenging. What you might not know is that dermatologists are qualified medical experts in nail, skin, and hair-related issues. Dermatologists can diagnose the causes of hair loss and offer treatments as per your specific needs. 

In this article, we’ll explore how a dermatologist can assist with different hair loss issues, the types of treatment they provide, and what you can expect during a consultation.

Key Takeaways

• Dermatologists specialize in diagnosing and treating various types of hair loss.
• They use treatments like medications, topical solutions, and procedures such as hair transplants.
• Early intervention with a dermatologist increases the chances of regrowing hair or preventing further hair loss.

How Can a Dermatologist Help with Hair Loss?

Many people notice their hair loss but are unaware of the cause. For example, thinning hair is said to be a common problem, but it goes undiagnosed until as much as 50% of the scalp hair is lost. A dermatologist can help by first diagnosing the cause and then performing a detailed scalp examination, which may also include further testing.

Diagnosing the Cause of Hair Loss

When you visit a dermatologist, the consultation will probably begin with a thorough review of your medical history. The dermatologist will ask about your symptoms, family history, lifestyle, and any recent stressors that may be contributing to the hair loss. 

They will also perform a detailed examination of your scalp and may request additional tests, such as blood work or a scalp biopsy, to help identify the cause. 

Dermatologists can diagnose several common conditions related to hair loss. These include androgenetic alopecia (pattern baldness), alopecia areata (an autoimmune disorder causing patchy hair loss), telogen effluvium (temporary hair loss due to stress), and scarring alopecias (permanent damage to hair follicles). 

Pattern baldness

Scalp Examination and Testing

Different methods can be used to diagnose hair loss. One of the most common is the pull test, where a dermatologist gently pulls on a section of hair to see how much hair comes out. Dermoscopy (or dermatoscopy) is another method that allows a close look at the scalp to check for any abnormalities. 

In some cases, a scalp biopsy may be done to take a small sample of scalp tissue for analysis. Dr. Donovan, a hair loss specialist, says: “Scalp biopsies are wonderful tools to help diagnose disease but are not always needed if the diagnosis is clear.”

A dermatologist can also recommend blood tests to check for hormonal imbalances, nutritional deficiencies, or autoimmune disorders that may be contributing to hair loss. These tests can help pinpoint the exact cause of hair loss and make the treatment plan more effective.

 

Do Dermatologists Treat Hair Loss? Types of Hair Loss Treated

Hair loss comes in many forms, and each type needs a different treatment approach. Once a dermatologist identifies the cause, they can create a customized plan to address it. The most commonly treated types of hair loss are:

Androgenetic Alopecia (Pattern Hair Loss)

Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is a form of hair loss that affects both males and females. It starts with a receding hairline or thinning at the crown and can progress gradually. In men, it mostly leads to baldness at the top of the head. On the other hand, in women, it causes overall thinning across the scalp. The most popular treatment for AGA is Minoxidil (Rogaine) or Finasteride (Propecia). 

Minoxidil (Rogaine) Treatment 

Minoxidil, available in 2% and 5% topical solutions, is applied directly to the scalp. It promotes hair growth in most patients. Studies have shown that the Minoxidil 5% solution is more effective than the 2% solution, with research revealing that 62% of men experienced an improvement in hair density after using the 5% solution for a year. The 5% solution also resulted in up to 70% improvement after 16 to 25 weeks of use.

Before and after oral Minoxidil use on a male patient (image source)

Finasteride (Propecia) Treatment  

Finasteride, an oral medication, blocks the hormone responsible for hair loss. Long-term use of Finasteride for up to five years reduces hair loss and promotes hair regrowth in the crown area. While Finasteride is effective for both men and women, higher doses are required for women. Postmenopausal women benefit most from doses between 2.5 and 5 mg per day. 

Telogen Effluvium

Telogen effluvium, a condition that starts a temporary form of hair loss, begins when many hair follicles move into the dormant phase of the hair growth cycle too soon. It is mostly triggered by stress, illness, or even certain medications. In this condition, excessive shedding is noticed a few months after the triggering event. 

To address telogen effluvium, a hair loss dermatologist usually recommends removing or managing the root trigger, such as reducing stress or addressing nutritional deficiencies. They might suggest lifestyle changes like improving diet, exercising, and taking supplements if you have any nutrient deficiencies. 

Alopecia Areata

Alopecia Areata is an autoimmune condition that occurs when the body's immune system incorrectly targets hair follicles, leading to patchy hair loss. It affects around 1 in 1000 people, with a lifetime risk estimated at 2%. It is more commonly observed among Asian, Hispanic, and Black populations. 

Treatment options for alopecia areata include corticosteroids, which help reduce inflammation and suppress the immune attack on hair follicles. Immunotherapy involves applying topical chemicals to stimulate the immune system in a controlled way.

Alopecia areata can also be treated by targeted therapies, specifically Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors. Medications like tofacitinib and ruxolitinib are examples of JAK inhibitors. These medicines block specific immunology pathways responsible for autoimmune attacks on hair follicles, reducing inflammation.

Scarring Alopecia (Cicatricial Alopecia)

Scarring alopecia is a rare condition where inflammation destroys the hair follicles and leads to permanent hair loss. In some cases, the exact cause remains unknown. However, it is often linked to inflammation or autoimmune disorders and can sometimes be triggered by skin trauma or other medications. Common symptoms are redness, scaling, or even pain in the affected area. Since the damage is irreversible, early intervention is very important.

This condition has different treatment options, which include corticosteroids and antibiotics if there is an infection. A dermatologist can also recommend surgical procedures in severe cases to restore the patient's appearance.

 

The hair growth cycle. All the hair on our bodies goes through this cycle. The cycle can last from 2 to 10 years. (image source)

What Do Dermatologists Prescribe for Hair Loss?

Dermatologists are the best resource for identifying the cause of hair loss and creating a personal treatment plan. Many people mistakenly blame stress or medications for their condition, which delays the right care. Dr. Salkey says, “People have wrong ideas about what they think is causing their hair loss, like stress or medications, and then they’re not getting the care they need in a timely manner when the care could have a big impact.”

Topical Treatments

Topical treatments are among the best options for treating hair loss. Minoxidil, approved by Health Canada and the FDA, is most popularly recommended as it slows hair loss and stimulates hair regrowth in both men and women. 

Corticosteroids are prescribed to manage conditions like alopecia areata or other inflammatory scalp issues, while tretinoin or finasteride-based topicals target hormone-related hair loss. 

Oral Medications

Dermatologists prescribe oral medications to address hair loss caused by certain conditions. Finasteride, for example, is commonly used for male pattern hair loss as it helps block DHT, a hormone that contributes to shrinking hair follicles. For women, spironolactone can be quite effective in managing hair thinning caused by a hormonal imbalance. 

Injections and Scalp Treatments

Injections and scalp treatments are recommended for more advanced and stubborn cases of hair loss. Corticosteroid injections are used to treat conditions like alopecia areata or scarring alopecia. This injection reduces inflammation around the hair follicles and helps the hair regrow in areas where hair loss has occurred. 

Another treatment option is Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy. PRP is a newer method that is gaining popularity because of its potential to revitalize the scalp.  This involves injecting the patient's own plasma into the scalp. The plasma’s growth factors can help activate the hair follicles, improve hair density, and increase overall hair growth. 

Dermatological Procedures for Hair Loss

When hair loss becomes more severe, dermatological procedures are recommended. These treatments are suggested when medications or topical treatments aren't giving the desired results. The procedures are designed to target the root cause of hair loss in order to encourage hair growth.  

Hair Transplants

Hair transplants are a popular option offered by a dermatologist specializing in hair restoration. Two techniques are mainly used for hair transplants: Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE) and Follicular Unit Transplant (FUT). Both procedures involve transferring healthy hair follicles from one area of the scalp to a region experiencing thinning or no hair.

In FUE, individual follicles are carefully extracted and transplanted, leaving very little scarring. On the other hand, during FUT, a small strip of scalp is surgically removed and divided into individual grafts for transplanting. 

An FUE hair transplant

Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT)

Low-level laser therapy is a non-invasive treatment designed to stimulate hair follicles and improve hair growth. This therapy uses red light to improve blood flow to the scalp as it helps strengthen the hair follicles. LLLT can be done either in a dermatologist's office or even at home. 

In a dermatologist’s office, LLLT is done using a special laser device that is placed on the scalp for around 15-30 minutes to stimulate hair growth. At home, a patient can use handheld laser combs or wearable laser caps, which deliver low-level light to the scalp. The home sessions last about 5 to 20 minutes and should be done a few times a week. 

Scalp Micropigmentation

Scalp micropigmentation is a cosmetic procedure. During the process, tiny pigment deposits are placed onto the scalp to mimic the look of hair follicles. The scalp micropigmentation technique creates the illusion of a fuller head of hair, especially in areas that experience thinning or balding.

It is a non-invasive solution that improves the appearance of density and provides a natural look for those with hair loss.

How to Prepare for a Dermatologist Appointment

Preparing for a visit to a hair loss dermatologist requires proper planning. The dermatologist will most likely ask detailed questions about your medical history, family background, and even dietary patterns. 

What to Bring

For your appointment, you should bring a list of any medications you're currently taking along with your medical history. You should also be ready to discuss your hair care routine, family history, diet, stress levels, scalp eczema issues, and other lifestyle factors. 

You might not think that diet and lifestyle are important matters, but Dr. Bauman, a hair specialist, says: “You need protein for hair. If you're starving yourself, your hair will suffer.” 

Questions to Ask Your Dermatologist

Here are some of the important questions that should be asked before you start your treatment:

• What could be causing my hair loss?
• What treatment options are available, and when can I expect to see the results?
• Are there side effects to the treatments you are recommending?

Do not forget to tell your dermatologist if you have any dandruff issues or an itchy scalp. Both have separate treatments that, if not treated, can cause hair loss.

Conclusion

A dermatologist is the best professional to help treat hair loss. They offer different types of treatments that suit your individual needs. If you are suffering from hair loss, do not wait; get an appointment as early as possible to prevent further hair loss. The longer you wait, the more severe your hair loss will be. 

Can a Dermatologist Help With Hair Loss: Frequently Asked Questions

Can a dermatologist help with thinning hair?

Yes, dermatologists are experts in diagnosing and treating thinning hair. They can determine what is causing hair loss and recommend the right treatments to help slow it down or promote regrowth. 

What treatments do dermatologists recommend for female hair loss?

For female hair loss, dermatologists may suggest medications like minoxidil, oral treatments, or laser therapy. In some cases, they may recommend more advanced options like platelet-rich plasma (PRP) or hair transplants.  

When should I see a dermatologist for hair loss?

It is a good idea to see a dermatologist as soon as you notice unusual hair-thinning, bald spots or a noticeable change in your hair. Early treatment will improve your chances of regrowth and prevent further hair loss.