Hair loss is more common than most people realize—affecting millions globally and spanning across genders, ages, and ethnicities. In fact, according to the American Academy of Dermatology, it’s normal to shed between 50 to 100 hairs a day. But when hair begins to thin visibly or bald patches appear, it often signals a deeper hair loss condition. Among the many types of hair loss, androgenetic alopecia remains the most common type of hair loss in both men and women. Other prevalent conditions include telogen effluvium, alopecia areata, and traction alopecia—each with distinct causes, symptoms, and hair loss stages.
Hair loss doesn’t happen overnight. It begins subtly—more strands in the shower drain, a widening part, or a fading hairline. While daily shedding is a healthy part of the hair’s natural growth cycle, hair loss signals a disruption in that cycle. Understanding the difference between temporary shedding and progressive baldness is key to early diagnosis and targeted treatment
There are numerous reasons for hair loss: genetics, hormonal imbalances, autoimmune responses, stress, nutrient deficiencies, and even certain hairstyles or haircare practices. Each type of baldness unfolds uniquely; some develop gradually over years, while others emerge suddenly in patches or clumps. Likewise, treatments vary—from medical therapies like minoxidil or corticosteroids to surgical options and regenerative procedures like PRP.
Recognizing the specific type of hair loss condition is essential. Each type has its own clinical fingerprint: pattern, progression, and underlying reason. By identifying the exact nature of the issue, individuals can better understand what’s happening, choose appropriate treatments, and set realistic expectations. In the following section ahead, we’ll break down 22 distinct types of hair loss—offering clarity into their symptoms, triggers, and the medical approaches available to address them.
24 Types of Hair Loss
Hair loss can affect anyone and manifests in various forms. Understanding the specific type of hair loss is crucial for finding the most effective treatment and management strategies. This guide explores 25 common and uncommon conditions leading to hair thinning or baldness.
Folliculitis
Folliculitis is a common condition marked by red, itchy, or pus-filled bumps that form around hair follicles, often indicating infection or inflammation. These symptoms—frequently paired with burning, crusting, and hair loss—are typically triggered by bacteria, fungi, shaving, or trapped sweat. Diagnosis is clinical, and treatment involves antibiotics, antifungal agents, or medicated shampoos. Hair usually regrows unless scarring occurs due to folliculitis.
Trichotillomania
Trichotillomania is a compulsive disorder that causes individuals to pull out hair, often from the scalp, eyebrows, or eyelashes, resulting in patchy bald spots. It typically begins in childhood or adolescence and is more common in females. Though not contagious, it causes significant emotional distress. Diagnosis is clinical, and treatment usually involves behavioral therapy and medication. Hair regrow if the follicles have not been permanently damaged by trichotillomania.
Telogen Effluvium
Telogen effluvium is a form of hair shedding without inflammation or scarring that result from stress, illness, or hormonal changes, especially in adult women. This type of hair loss is usually temporary and reversible, with regrowth occurring within a few months after the underlying trigger is addressed. Such cases are typically diagnosed as telogen effluvium.
Traction Alopecia
Traction alopecia results from tight hairstyles that place continuous tension on the scalp, causing thinning and receding hairlines, particularly in women who often wear braids or ponytails. If not addressed early, the condition becomes permanent, but changing hairstyles and appropriate treatments prevent progression. This pattern of hair loss is known as traction alopecia.
Tinea Capitis
Tinea capitis is a contagious fungal infection primarily affecting the scalp and is most common in children. It presents with scaly patches, brittle hairs, and round bald spots, sometimes accompanied by swollen lymph nodes or pus-filled sores. The infection spreads through direct contact or sharing items like combs or hats. Diagnosis usually involves a scalp examination or fungal culture. Effective treatment requires oral antifungal medication, as topical treatments alone are insufficient. Hair generally regrows once the infection resolves and the scalp heals from tinea capitis.
Androgenetic Alopecia
Androgenetic alopecia is the most common type of balding, affecting both men and women as they age. In men, it typically causes a receding hairline and thinning at the crown, while in women, it results in diffuse thinning across the top of the scalp. This condition is genetic and hormonal but not contagious. Diagnosis is based on the characteristic pattern and patient history. Treatment options include minoxidil, finasteride (for men), PRP, or hair transplants. Although progressive, the condition is manageable with proper care and treatment for androgenetic alopecia.
Lichen Planopilaris
Lichen planopilaris is an autoimmune condition that causes inflammation and scarring of the scalp, leading to patchy, permanent hair loss. It is more common in middle-aged women. Symptoms such as itching, burning, and redness often precede the appearance of bald patches. The condition is not contagious. Diagnosis typically involves a scalp biopsy. Treatment includes anti-inflammatory medications like corticosteroids or immunosuppressants to slow progression, but hair lost to scarring does not regrow with lichen planopilaris.
Frontal Fibrosing Alopecia
Frontal fibrosing alopecia is a form of lichen planopilaris that primarily affects postmenopausal women, causing a slowly receding hairline and eyebrow loss. The scalp appears smooth and scarred. While the exact cause is unknown, it is likely autoimmune. Diagnosis is confirmed through biopsy. The condition is not contagious. Treatments include corticosteroids, anti-androgens, or 5-alpha reductase inhibitors to halt progression, though regrowth is rare with frontal fibrosing alopecia.
Folliculitis Decalvans
Folliculitis decalvans is a chronic bacterial infection of hair follicles that causes scarring, pus-filled lesions, and permanent bald spots on the scalp. It is more common in adult men. Symptoms typically include itching, pain, and crusting. Though not contagious, the condition recur. Diagnosis is clinical or confirmed by biopsy. Treatment involves antibiotics, antiseptic shampoos, and anti-inflammatory agents. Early intervention helps prevent further damage from folliculitis decalvans.
Alopecia Universalis
Alopecia universalis is a rare autoimmune condition in which the immune system attacks all hair follicles, resulting in complete loss of hair on the scalp and body. It appears suddenly and affects both sexes at any age. The condition is not contagious. Diagnosis is clinical and involves blood tests. Treatments such as corticosteroids, JAK inhibitors, or immunotherapy aim to stimulate hair regrowth, though outcomes vary with alopecia universalis.
Scarring Alopecia
Scarring alopecia, known as cicatricial alopecia, refers to a group of disorders that destroy hair follicles and replace them with scar tissue, resulting in permanent bald spots. It is uncommon and affects adults of all backgrounds. Symptoms such as inflammation, redness, or pain often precede hair loss. Diagnosis is confirmed through biopsy. Treatment focuses on anti-inflammatory medications to prevent further damage from scarring alopecia.
Alopecia Totalis
Alopecia totalis is an advanced form of alopecia areata that leads to complete loss of scalp hair. It often begins with sudden patchy hair loss before progressing to full baldness. This condition is usually seen in children or young adults. It is not contagious. Diagnosis is clinical. Common treatments include immunotherapy, corticosteroids, and JAK inhibitors, though individual responses vary with alopecia totalis.
Anagen Effluvium
Anagen effluvium is rapid hair loss occurring during the growth phase of the hair cycle, often triggered by chemotherapy, radiation, or toxic exposure. It affects both sexes equally and begins within days of treatment. Hair falls out from the root in large amounts. Diagnosis is based on patient history and scalp examination. Hair usually regrows once the triggering factor ceases, although the texture temporarily changes with anagen effluvium.
Central Centrifugal Cicatricial Alopecia (CCCA)
Central Centrifugal Cicatricial Alopecia (CCCA) is a scarring form of hair loss primarily affecting women of African descent. It typically begins at the crown and spreads outward, causing inflammation, tenderness, and permanent scalp damage if left untreated. The condition is not contagious. Diagnosis involves scalp examination and biopsy. Treatment includes corticosteroids, antibiotics, and avoiding heat or chemical styling to prevent progression of Central Centrifugal Cicatricial Alopecia.
Loose Anagen Syndrome
Loose Anagen Syndrome is a condition where hair is loosely anchored to the scalp and easily pulls out during the growth phase. It mostly affects young children, especially girls with light hair. The condition is not contagious. Hair appears thin and often fails to grow long. Diagnosis is clinical or involves microscopic examination of pulled hairs. Hair usually improves with age, and gentle hair care is recommended for managing Loose Anagen Syndrome.
Syphilitic Alopecia
Syphilitic alopecia is hair loss caused by secondary syphilis, presenting as patchy or diffuse thinning often described as “moth-eaten” alopecia. It affects adults and is sexually transmitted but not contagious through casual contact. Diagnosis requires blood tests for syphilis. Once treated with antibiotics, typically penicillin, hair loss ceases and regrowth is likely with syphilitic alopecia.
Pseudopelade of Brocq
Pseudopelade of Brocq is a rare form of scarring alopecia characterized by small, smooth bald spots on the scalp. The exact cause is unknown but is possibly autoimmune. It progresses slowly and often affects middle-aged women. The condition is not contagious. Diagnosis requires a biopsy to rule out similar disorders. Treatments focus on halting progression, typically using corticosteroids or immunosuppressive drugs, though lost hair rarely regrows with Pseudopelade of Brocq.
Congenital Atrichia
Congenital atrichia is a rare genetic disorder where babies are born with hair but lose it permanently during infancy. No regrowth occurs because hair follicles are absent or severely underdeveloped. It affects both sexes equally and is not contagious. Diagnosis involves family history and genetic testing. There is no treatment, so cosmetic options like wigs are used for appearance and comfort in cases of congenital atrichia.
Congenital Hypotrichosis
Congenital hypotrichosis is a rare inherited condition characterized by sparse, thin hair from birth. Hair growth is slow or absent in certain areas, including the eyebrows and body hair. It affects both males and females equally and is not contagious. Diagnosis involves clinical observation and genetic testing. There is no cure; management focuses on cosmetic solutions and gentle hair care for congenital hypotrichosis.
Non-scarring Alopecia
Non-scarring alopecia refers to hair loss that does not cause permanent damage to the hair follicles. Common types include telogen effluvium, alopecia areata, and androgenetic alopecia. Hair shedding occurs suddenly or gradually. This condition affects people of all ages and is not contagious. Diagnosis depends on the specific type and medical history. Treatment varies and includes medications, supplements, or lifestyle changes, with a good chance of hair regrowth in cases of non-scarring alopecia.
Radiation-induced Alopecia
Radiation-induced alopecia is hair loss caused by exposure to radiation, often during cancer treatment. It affects the area directly exposed, usually the scalp. Hair falls out rapidly and regrows thinner or not at all if the radiation dose was high. This condition is not contagious. Diagnosis is based on treatment history. Regrowth depends on the radiation dose and area affected; topical treatments help support recovery from radiation-induced alopecia.
Marie Unna Hereditary Hypotrichosis
Marie Unna Hereditary Hypotrichosis is a very rare genetic disorder where hair grows sparse, coarse, or twisted during childhood and falls out later in life. It is usually inherited in an autosomal dominant pattern and affects both genders equally. The condition is not contagious. Diagnosis is confirmed through family history and genetic testing. There is no cure; treatment focuses on hair care and cosmetic support for Marie Unna Hereditary Hypotrichosis.
What Are the Different Stages of Hair Loss?
Hair loss doesn't usually happen all at once—it progresses in different stages. While the pace and severity vary by condition, most types of hair loss follow a general progression:
Initial Shedding: This is often the first sign—more strands than usual fall out during washing or brushing. It goes unnoticed until hair density starts to decrease.
Hair Thinning: Hair begins to lose its volume, becoming visibly finer or lighter. Thinning usually starts at the crown, temples, or along the part line, depending on the type of hair loss.
Pattern Formation or Patchiness: Thinning becomes more defined—either in a patterned form (such as a receding hairline) or in irregular bald patches, especially in autoimmune or fungal-related conditions.
Bald Spots: As hair continues to fall out from the root, distinct bald areas form on the scalp. These are smooth, inflamed, or flaky depending on the underlying cause.
Scarring: In certain conditions (like scarring alopecias), inflammation destroys the follicle permanently. The scalp appears shiny, and the area feels tight or firm.
Permanent Loss: If left untreated—or if caused by irreversible conditions—hair does not regrow. At this stage, treatment often shifts from recovery to cosmetic management.option depends on the patient’s needs, goals, and budget.
Are Hair Loss Stages Different for Men and Women?
Yes, men and women typically experience different progression patterns. Male hair loss often follows the Norwood Scale, which maps hairline recession and crown thinning. In contrast, women are assessed using the Ludwig Scale, which tracks diffuse thinning across the top of the scalp while preserving the frontal hairline. Understanding these patterns helps diagnose the type of balding and choose the most effective solution.
What Is the Most Common Type of Hair Loss?
The most common type of hair loss is androgenetic alopecia, known as male or female pattern baldness. This condition affects over 50 million men and 30 million women in the United States alone, according to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD).
95% of male hair loss cases are caused by androgenetic alopecia, making it the most common form of hair loss as indicated by Plastic Surgery Secrets Plus, (2010).
Androgenetic alopecia is caused by a genetic sensitivity to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone that shrinks hair follicles and shortens the hair growth cycle. In men, it typically begins as a receding hairline or thinning at the crown. In women, it appears as diffuse thinning along the top of the scalp, often without affecting the frontal hairline.
Its prevalence increases with age—by age 50, about 50% of men and 25% of women show visible signs. The condition is progressive and starts as early as the late teens in genetically predisposed individuals.
Because of its widespread occurrence, predictable pattern, and strong hereditary link, the most common type of hair loss is androgenetic alopecia—making it a key focus in both clinical diagnosis and long-term treatment strategies.
What Is the Most Rare Type of Hair Loss?
The most rare type of hair loss is Marie Unna Hereditary Hypotrichosis (MUHH)—an exceptionally uncommon genetic disorder that severely affects hair growth from childhood. It follows an autosomal dominant inheritance pattern, meaning just one copy of the faulty gene trigger the condition.
Marie Unna Hereditary Hypotrichosis is considered the most rare type of hair loss due to its extremely low prevalence worldwide—documented in only a few dozen families globally, according to Orphanet, a database of rare diseases, established in France by the INSERM (French National Institute for Health and Medical Research).
Most cases are identified in childhood, with coarse or wiry scalp hair that later fall out entirely during adolescence as indicated in an article written by Sahana M Srinivas et al., and published in the International Journal of Trichology (2014). The disorder causes sparse eyebrows and eyelashes. Diagnosis is confirmed through genetic testing, usually targeting mutations in the U2HR gene.
What Is the Most Severe Type of Hair Loss?
The most severe type of hair loss is Alopecia Universalis, a rare autoimmune disorder in which the body attacks all hair follicles, leading to the complete loss of hair across the entire body—including scalp, eyebrows, eyelashes, and body hair.
Alopecia Universalis is considered the most severe type of hair loss due to its total and often permanent nature. It is a more extreme progression of alopecia areata, which typically causes patchy hair loss as indicated by the Canadian Dermatology Association.
Alopecia Universalis affects approximately 1 in 125,000 people worldwide as reported by the National Alopecia Areata Foundation (NAAF).
While some patients experience spontaneous regrowth, most require long-term management with immunosuppressive therapies, JAK inhibitors, or experimental treatments—none of which guarantee recovery. Its aggressive progression, unpredictable course, and total body involvement distinguish Alopecia Universalis as the most severe form of hair loss.
What Are the Types of Hair Loss that Can Lead to Permanent Balding?
Certain types of hair loss are irreversible, meaning the hair follicles are destroyed and cannot produce new hair. Here is a list of the types of hair loss that can lead to permanent balding:
Androgenetic Alopecia: This genetic condition causes progressive follicle shrinkage, eventually leading to permanent thinning or bald spots on the scalp.
Scarring Alopecia (Cicatricial Alopecia): This group of disorders destroys hair follicles through inflammation and replaces them with scar tissue—once the follicles are scarred, regrowth is impossible.
Frontal Fibrosing Alopecia: A type of scarring alopecia that causes a receding hairline, mainly in postmenopausal women. Hair loss is permanent due to follicle damage.
Lichen Planopilaris: An autoimmune condition where inflammation targets and destroys hair follicles, leaving behind bald, scarred patches.
Central Centrifugal Cicatricial Alopecia (CCCA): Most commonly seen in women of African descent, CCCA starts at the crown and spreads outward. It causes scarring and permanent hair loss if not treated early.
Folliculitis Decalvans: This inflammatory scalp condition leads to pustules and crusting, eventually resulting in permanent bald patches from repeated follicular destruction.
What Are the Early Signs of Balding?
Visible signs of balding to watch for include:
- Gradually widening part
- Thinning at the crown
- Receding hairline
- Small bald patches
- Hair falling out from the root in clumps
- Scalp appearing shiny, tight, or inflamed
Recognizing these signs of balding early help guide timely diagnosis and treatment.
What Types of Hair Loss Are Reversible?
While some hair loss types are permanent, other forms of hair loss are reversible. The types of hair loss conditions that are reversible include:
Telogen Effluvium: Triggered by stress, illness, or hormonal shifts, this type causes widespread shedding. Once the trigger is resolved, hair usually regrows within 3–6 months.
Anagen Effluvium: Often caused by chemotherapy or toxic exposure, this rapid hair loss from the root reverses once treatment ends and follicles recover.
Traction Alopecia: Caused by repeated tension from hairstyles like tight ponytails or braids. Hair regrowth is possible if the pulling is stopped before follicle damage sets in.
Tinea Capitis: A fungal infection of the scalp that causes patchy hair loss. With antifungal treatment, hair typically grows back once the infection clears.
Trichotillomania: A hair-pulling disorder linked to behavioral health. If the pulling stops and follicles are intact, regrowth is possible.
Loose Anagen Syndrome: Common in children, especially girls, this condition causes hair to fall out easily during the growth phase. It often improves with age or mild topical treatments.
Syphilitic Alopecia: A sign of secondary syphilis. Once treated with antibiotics, hair usually regrows without long-term damage.
Which Types of Hair Loss Are Suitable for Hair Transplant?
Hair transplants are a popular hair regrowth treatment that involve relocating healthy hair follicles—usually from the back or sides of the scalp (known as the donor area)—to areas affected by balding. Hair transplant surgery is most effective when the donor area is dense and unaffected by hair loss, making the selection of suitable candidates crucial.
Androgenetic Alopecia: This is the most common type of hair loss treated with hair transplant surgery. It's ideal because it follows a predictable pattern and usually leaves a stable donor zone untouched.
Traction Alopecia: If diagnosed early and hair-pulling habits have stopped, patients with localized thinning—especially along the hairline—benefit from transplantation once the scalp is healthy.
Scarring Alopecia (Stable Cases): In select, stabilized cases (with no active inflammation), hair transplants is an option, especially when scarring is minimal and the surrounding tissue is suitable for graft survival.
Frontal Fibrosing Alopecia (Inactive Phase): Although controversial, some patients in long-term remission qualify for transplant if their hairline recession has stabilized and no active scarring is visible.
Burn or Injury-Related Hair Loss: When hair loss results from physical trauma or burns—and the skin is healed and stable—hair transplantation restores hair in those areas.
Hair transplants are generally not advised for diffuse hair loss, active scarring alopecia, alopecia areata, or cases where the donor area is weak or thinning. In such situations, medical or non-surgical hair regrowth treatments like PRP, minoxidil, or LLLT are more effective. Proper diagnosis and scalp analysis are essential to determine transplant eligibility and long-term success.
What Are the Best Advantages of Getting a Hair Transplant in Turkey?
Getting a hair transplant in Turkey offers a unique combination of medical excellence, affordability, and patient-centered care—making it one of the world’s top destinations for hair restoration. The country is known for its highly experienced surgeons, advanced techniques like DHI and Sapphire FUE, and internationally accredited clinics that deliver consistent results. One of the biggest advantages is cost-efficiency: patients receive premium treatments at a fraction of the price compared to the UK, Europe, or the US, without compromising quality. Choosing a hair transplant in Turkey ensures both value and quality in your hair restoration journey.
Many clinics offer comprehensive packages that include airport transfers, hotel stays, interpreters, and aftercare—making the entire journey smooth and stress-free. Among them, Vera Clinic stands out as the best hair transplant clinic in Turkey, known for its award-winning medical team, modern facility, and over 40,000 satisfied patients from around the globe. With its commitment to safety, technology, and natural-looking results, Vera Clinic continues to set the standard for hair transplants in Istanbul and beyond.
Can You Prevent Hair Loss?
Yes, in many cases, hair loss can be prevented or significantly delayed—depending on the underlying cause. While genetic hair loss like androgenetic alopecia cannot be fully stopped, early intervention and proper care can slow its progression. For non-genetic causes—such as stress, poor nutrition, hormonal imbalance, scalp infections, or tight hairstyles—hair loss is often preventable with lifestyle adjustments and medical guidance.
Maintaining scalp health, avoiding harsh chemical treatments, and managing chronic health conditions are crucial steps in prevention. Early diagnosis plays a key role in minimizing long-term damage and preserving hair density
Best tips for preventing hair loss:
- Balanced diet
- Stress management
- Gentle hair care
- Avoid tight hairstyles
- Treat scalp conditions early
- Regular exercise
- Avoid smoking
- Limit heat and chemicals
- Use dermatologist-approved products
- Routine blood checks
- Early treatment if shedding increases