Premature Hair Loss

Premature hair loss can affect men or women and is very common. It can often be treated well by a dermatologist.

Premature hair loss, genetic balding or androgenetic alopecia is a very common condition which is usually managed by Dermatologists. Men initially lose hair at the temples followed by the crown. As hair loss progresses, the two areas converge until the majority of the scalp is affected. Women tend to develop progressive thinning commencing at the central partline.

Scalp hairs normally contain a main or primary hair follicle together with up to five secondary follicles within the same follicular unit. In androgenetic alopecia, these secondary follicles become miniaturised leading to a reduction in hair density, increased hair shedding or reduction in pony tail diameter. Baldness occurs when these miniaturised follicles no longer remain visible.

Premature hair loss can be quite a distressing condition for many people. The aim of medical treatment is to stop the progression of hair loss and to stimulate partial regrowth.

Premature hair loss treatment options

  • Topical and oral minoxidil
  • Finasteride and dutasteride
  • Oral anti-androgens such as spironolactone and cyproterone acetate
  • Hair transplantation surgery

Not all of the above treatments are suitable for men and women. A suitable treatment plan is best implemented in consultation with your treating Dermatologist.

If premature hair loss is a problem for you, please contact the clinic on (02) 9953 9522 to arrange a consultation with our Dermatologist to discuss suitable treatment.