For most people, hair loss is the result of genetics or hormones, even postpartum hair loss. The good news is that hormone-related hair loss can be treated fairly easily and effectively with the right care.
At Advanced Dermatology, P.C., we know that hair loss can be distressing, and finding the right medical professional is essential for proper care. The type of doctor you should see depends on the pattern and severity of your hair loss, as well as any accompanying symptoms.
Understanding which specialist to consult can streamline your path to effective treatment and peace of mind.
What Is a Hair Doctor Called?
The term “hair doctor” is often used informally to describe physicians who evaluate and treat hair disorders. Most often, this refers to dermatologists, who are medical doctors who specialize in conditions of the skin, hair, and nails, according to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD).
What Type of Doctor Specializes in Hair Loss?
Dermatologists are the primary medical specialists for diagnosing and treating hair loss as well as skin conditions. Their expertise covers the full spectrum of hair and scalp disorders, including pattern baldness, cosmetic thinning, alopecia areata, and scalp infections.
According an article in the National Library of Medicine, a trichologist is a medical professional, though not necessarily a medical doctor, who focuses on diseases resulting in hair loss. However, for most people, hair loss, including postpartum hair loss, is not the result of a disease.
Doctor That Specializes in Hair Loss Explained
A board-certified dermatologist is trained to identify the root causes of hair loss, whether genetic, hormonal, environmental, or autoimmune. With years of specialized education, dermatologists are uniquely equipped to distinguish between temporary shedding and more serious underlying conditions.
Can a Dermatologist Help With Hair Loss?
Absolutely. Dermatologists are the go-to experts for most hair loss concerns. If you are experiencing gradual thinning, pattern hair loss (male or female), or hair breakage without other symptoms, a dermatologist can provide both evaluation and treatment options. At Advanced Dermatology, P.C., our board-certified dermatology team routinely manages a wide range of hair loss cases.
Dermatologist for Hair Loss vs Hair Loss Specialist
While some may seek out a “hair loss specialist,” it’s important to note that board-certified dermatologists are the true medical experts in this area. Some clinics may offer trichology services (the study of hair and scalp), but dermatologists can provide both medical and procedural interventions, as well as diagnose more complex causes of hair loss.
Is Hair Loss a Medical Condition?
Hair loss can be a normal part of aging or a cosmetic concern, but it can also signal an underlying health problem. When hair loss is accompanied by other symptoms such as fatigue, unexplained weight loss, or changes in skin or nails, it may be a sign of a systemic medical condition, such as a thyroid abnormality, that should be evaluated by a general practitioner first.
When Hair Loss Is Normal vs When It Signals a Health Issue
It’s normal to shed 50-100 hairs a day. Gradual thinning with age or a family history of pattern balding is common and typically not a health concern. However, sudden, patchy, or severe hair loss, especially when paired with other health changes, may indicate a medical issue that needs prompt attention.
Common Signs You Should See a Doctor for Hair Loss
- Sudden or rapid hair loss
- Hair loss accompanied by weight loss, fever, or fatigue
- Scalp itching, burning, or redness
- Patchy hair loss or bald spots
- Hair loss in children
In these cases, start with your general practitioner, who can assess for contributing medical conditions before referring you to a dermatologist if appropriate.
How a Dermatologist Diagnoses Hair Loss
A dermatologist will begin with a thorough medical history and physical examination of your scalp and hair. They may ask about your family history, recent illnesses, medications, and hair care practices.
Tests and Evaluations Used for Hair Loss Diagnosis
Dermatologists may use a variety of tests to diagnose hair loss, including the following:
- Scalp examination with a dermatoscope
- Hair pull tests
- Blood tests to rule out thyroid disease or nutritional deficiencies
- Scalp biopsy (if necessary)
Hair Loss Causes
The most common cause of hair loss in both men and women is hormones. This is why shampoos for hair loss are typically not very effective at combating the three primary hormones involved: cortisol, testosterone, and thyroid hormone.
Each of these hormones can be affected by stress. Excess cortisol can lead to follicle regression. Substance P is a neuropeptide that is released to modulate inflammation, and it leaves follicles prey to attack. Corticotropin also binds to the follicle and inhibits hair growth.
Unfortunately, there are no medications that can directly address hair loss. However, some supplements have been shown to improve hair growth and thickness. Some shampoos for hair loss also make bold statements about treating hair loss, but few are effective.
When in doubt about what to try, consult with a dermatologist for hair loss – a medical doctor specializing in skin health – to diagnose the cause of hair loss, and the best hair loss treatment options or vitamins to encourage hair growth.
A dermatologist will dive into your lifestyle, nutrition, stress levels, and exercise habits. Each of these areas can provide valuable information about what is causing hair loss, and where you might be missing certain crucial vitamins for hair growth.
Hair Loss Treatments
The diagnostic process may include a blood test, pull test, biopsy, and even a microscopic investigation of the scalp.
From there, a dermatologist can see whether nutritional or surgical intervention is needed. Since there is no treatment for permanent hair loss, some may opt to undergo a permanent hair transplant surgery – a cosmetic procedure that relocates active hair follicles to balding or thinning areas.
Consult a Dermatologist for Hair Loss
How can a dermatologist help hair loss? Aside from surgery, other options can involve nutritional supplementation or topical treatments like Minoxidil. Laser therapy is also being studied more recently as a possible option for hair loss.
What is the Best Hair Loss Treatment For You?
Whether as a result of postpartum hormonal changes, stress, or for reasons unknown, it doesn’t hurt to find out what hair regrowth options are available to you if you have started noticing hair loss.
Even if your hair has started thinning, there are still measures you can take to decrease the effects. Whether you have a medical emergency or just want to schedule a cosmetic consultation, Advanced Dermatology, P.C. makes it easy to see a top-rated dermatologist. Call or book online to schedule an appointment at one of our 50+ convenient locations today.
Hair Loss Doctor FAQs
Whether you’re noticing early signs of thinning or facing sudden, unexplained hair loss, our answers will help you make informed decisions about your care and next steps.
Which Doctor Should I Consult for Sudden Hair Loss?
If you experience sudden, severe hair fall, especially if it’s accompanied by other symptoms such as fatigue, unexplained weight loss, or changes in your skin or nails, you should first consult your general practitioner. These signs may indicate an underlying medical condition that requires prompt evaluation.
Once other health issues have been ruled out, your general practitioner may refer you to a dermatologist for specialized care.
Do I Need a Referral to See a Hair Loss Dermatologist?
In most cases, you do not need a referral to see a dermatologist for hair loss, especially if your symptoms are mild or related to cosmetic concerns like thinning or pattern baldness. However, some insurance plans or healthcare systems may require a referral from your primary care provider. It’s always a good idea to check with your insurance or healthcare provider before making an appointment.
Can Hair Loss Be Reversed With Medical Treatment?
Depending on the cause, many types of hair loss can be treated or even reversed with medical intervention. Dermatologists can prescribe topical or oral medications, recommend in-office procedures, or suggest lifestyle changes tailored to your diagnosis.
Early evaluation improves the chances of successful treatment, so don’t delay seeking help if you notice changes in your hair.
How Long Should I Wait Before Seeing a Doctor for Hair Loss?
If your hair loss is gradual and not accompanied by other symptoms, you can monitor it for a few months and try gentle hair care practices. However, seek medical care from a qualified dermatologist if you notice the following:
- Rapid, patchy, or excessive hair shedding
- Scalp irritation
- Scalp redness
- Scalp discoloration
If you experience the above or other concerning symptoms, schedule a medical evaluation as soon as possible. Early intervention is key to effective management.
Is a Hair Loss Specialist Different From a Dermatologist?
A board-certified dermatologist is the medical specialist most qualified to diagnose and treat hair loss. While some clinics may advertise “hair loss specialists” or trichologists, they may not have the same medical training or ability to prescribe treatments as dermatologists.
For the most comprehensive skin care, especially in cases of unexplained or persistent hair loss, consult a dermatologist experienced in hair and scalp disorders.