You should contact a board-certified provider if you notice hair loss. There are several reasons for hair loss—you may be experiencing stress, have genetic factors at play, or it may be as simple as your hair style causing the issue. A board-certified provider can identify the source of the issue.
Causes
Causes
The first step in any effective hair loss treatment is finding the root cause. By seeing a board-certified provider, you are sure to receive an accurate diagnosis. These medical professionals are versed in the various reasons for hair loss and have experience treating them all.
Hereditary Causes
This is the most prevalent cause of hair loss, affecting both men and women. In men, it is known as male pattern hair loss, and in women it is called female pattern hair loss. The medical term for this is androgenic alopecia. Whatever word you choose, it means that you have genes that drive the hair follicles—where each hair emerges—in your scalp to contract and finally stop developing hair. Although it can start as early as your teens, shrinking often begins later in life.
Age
Many people experience hair loss as they become older because hair growth naturally slows. Over time, hair follicles stop producing new hair which results in hair becoming more thin. Your hairline may recede and your hair color will also start to fade.
Diseases and Conditions
Several diseases and conditions can cause hair loss and should be treated mediclaly. One common condition is called Alopecia areata. This develops when the body’s immune system attacks hair follicles, causing hair loss. Chemotherapy and radiation to the head and neck can also cause you to lose all or most of your hair within a few weeks of starting treatment.
Topical or Oral Medication
Both topical and oral medications (or a combination of both) may be used to encourage new hair growth.
Platelet Rich Plasma
We use plasma from your blood to perform Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) injections to the areas where your hair has thinned. With the help of these injections, your follicles are given an extra push to restore your hair from the inside out.
New Care Routines and Styles
Certain hairstyles and hair care practices might cause hair loss. If your provider determines that this is causing hair loss, they can suggest changes to help you stop harming your hair.
Our Process
Consultation
A thorough consultation and examination will allow your provider to determine the best course of action. Your provider will review your condition, family and medical history, and treatment options with you.
Treatment
Once a treatment plan has been determined at Elevated Dermatology, we work with you to ensure the highest possible success rate of your hair loss treatment in Littleton, CO.
Results
Your provider will explain expectations and results and the best methods to maintain or improve those results.
Kate Messana
DO, FAOCD, FAAD
- Specialty
- Clinical and microscopic diagnosis, Medical Dermatology, and Cosmetic Dermatology
- Education
- University of Minnesota, Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, St. Joseph Mercy Hospital Dermatology Residency, Cleveland Clinic Dermatopathology fellowship
- Credentials
- Member of the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology, the American Academy of Dermatology, and the American Society of Dermatopathology
Frequently Asked Questions About Hair Loss
Internal and external factors can cause hair loss. Discovering the unique cause of someone’s hair loss requires closely examining their hair, medical history, and all the surrounding factors. Causes include genetics, damage, diseases, medications, and other treatments.
Hair loss is not contagious. However, it can be a symptom of an infectious disease. One example is the fungus that causes ringworm. This can infect your scalp, which is contagious. Scalp ringworm can result in hair loss if left untreated.