Hair loss can be distressing and annoying at any age. Whether you have a child suffering from abnormal bald spots or find yourself with a little too much in your hand after you run your hand through your hair, a trip to the dermatologist may be the answer to your concerns. A dermatologist can uncover the reason for this hair loss and help you develop a solution.
Diagnosis
When you begin to experience unexplained hair loss, make an appointment with your local dermatologist. Ask for a referral to one that specializes in hair loss and regrowth. Choose a pediatric dermatologist who is familiar with developing skin and growing bodies if your child is the one with the hair loss. Before you get to the office, make note of how long the hair loss has continued, if it ever spiked or increased or any other changes. Note also any medication you or the patient is taking and whether you or he has suffered any recent illness. The dermatologist will determine, from your answers to his questions, your family history and any patterns he notices, what caused this loss.
Treatment
If the hair loss came as a result of an illness you incurred, your pregnancy or a drug that you have stopped taking, your hair is likely to start growing back. If you simply have to wait, you may find the local barber or hair stylist to be better than the dermatologist to help you get through this time. If the hair loss is permanent, due to damage to the follicles or a midlife crisis, your dermatologist may prescribe a medication to encourage your hair to grow back. Propecia, a prescription pill, or Rogaine, an over-the-counter topical cream, are two popular medications your dermatologist may suggest for your hair growth.
Surgery
If the follicles are permanently damaged or missing in a specific area, medication may not be enough to treat hair loss. In this case, your dermatologist may refer you to a dermasurgeon who can graft new hair follicles into your scalp. The American Society for Dermatologic Surgery encourages dermasurgery patients to interview surgeons before choosing one. Patients should ask for credentials and background. Furthermore, she should ask exactly what she should expect from the surgery regarding healing time, pain, risks and costs.
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