Types of hair loss
Androgenetic alopecia (hereditary hair loss) is the most common form - in men it usually shows up as thinning at the sides and crown of the head, while in women it more often appears as general thinning.
Telogen effluvium (temporary intense shedding due to stress, illness, surgery, or childbirth) and scalp-related conditions (such as alopecia areata) occur through different mechanisms and require a different approach.
Causes
Genetic predisposition is the main factor - if there is male-pattern baldness in the family, the likelihood is higher. Hormones (DHT) cause hair follicles to gradually shrink.
Stress, iron and vitamin deficiency, thyroid problems, pregnancy/childbirth, certain medications, and prolonged illness can also contribute to temporary or persistent shedding.
Tightly pulled hairstyles and aggressive chemical treatments can also cause mechanical hair loss (traction alopecia).
Non-surgical solutions
In the early stage, medication-based treatments recommended by a doctor (such as minoxidil, and in certain cases finasteride) can slow further weakening of the follicle. Results are individual and require continued use.
Supportive treatments such as PRP (platelet-rich plasma) and mesotherapy can support hair density in some patients, but they do not restore a lost follicle - they are aimed at strengthening existing ones.
If a deficiency in iron, vitamin D, or thyroid function is detected, correcting it can stop the shedding - which is why a blood test can be helpful.
Surgical option: hair transplantation
If the follicle has already been lost (in cases with resistant hair available in the donor area), hair transplantation (FUE/DHI) is the main option for restoring permanent density.
Hair transplantation is most effective in stable, persistent androgenetic hair loss that has reached a settled degree. In a stage of hair loss that is still active and progressing rapidly, it may be more sensible to first slow the shedding and then plan the transplant.
When to see a doctor
If shedding has become far greater than usual, if patchy thinning is observed, or if there is a family history, an early evaluation preserves more options. Delay can increase the risk of irreversible follicle loss.