Hair Loss: Types, How, What can you do

This series of blogs is based off a presentation through Aderans.

Carrie Prowant, a trichologist (specialist who treats and studies hair and scalp disorders), gave a presentation on 25 August 2026 on common causes of hair loss today, and the ingredients that actually work to assist with hair strength and growth.

• 85% of people will experience some form of hair loss in their lifetime

• 6 distinct hair loss conditions and unique treatment paths

• 2 to 3 months of consistent treatment before results are seen

6 Types of Hair Loss

1. Androgenic Alopecia

Female and male pattern hair loss, driven by DHT (dihydrotestosterone). Follicles miniaturize over time. Blocking DHT supports hair regrowth and slows progression. 

2. Alopecia Areata

Round, circular patches of hair loss (not limited to the scalp) that can appear and resolve unpredictably. Often, it is triggered by stress.

3. Frontal Fibrosing Alopecia

Affects women 35-60. Shows up as a receding hairline, rogue hairs, and discolored skin. Cannot be cured but can be slowed with lifelong medication. 

4. Telogen Effluvium

Widespread shedding across the scalp. Often triggered by weight loss medications or body prioritizing essential organs over hair and nail health during periods of physical stress.

5. Traction Alopecia

Caused by ongoing tension from tight hairstyles or hair additions. 

6. Chemotherapy Induced

Cold cap treatments can help by slowing follicle cell division during treatment, reducing damage from chemotherapy drugs. 

What is actually driving hair loss in 2026

*Hormonal & Life Stage

A. Menopause changes the hair growth cycle and follicle density over time

B. Postpartum hormone level changes cause temporary shedding

C. PCOS can present as thinning at the crown alongside other symptoms

D. Weight loss medications are a well-known trigger for telogen effluvium

*Lifestyle & Mechanical

A. Stress is a common trigger for alopecia areata and diffuse shedding 

B. Tight styling and hair additions is a direct cause of traction alopecia

C. Hats can compound unclarified scalp conditions 

D. Wigs and extensions using tape and adhesive systems raise traction risk if not applied by a specialist

Bloodwork that can be helpful in identifying treatment options:

Ferritin Serum

Iron

Vitamin B12

Vitamin D3