Alopecia & Other Forms of Hair Loss
Due to a multitude of different forms of hair loss conditions, it is extremely important to consult with a dermatologist for proper treatment. By coming into the clinic, Dr. Kartono can adequately assess your situation and come up with a treatment plan for you! What is Hair Loss?
Hair loss can come in many different forms and as multiple different conditions. Factors can include a family history (hereditary causes), hormone changes, certain medical conditions, medications & supplements, radiation therapy, stressful events, hairstyles & treatments, and poor nutrition. For more detailed information on different types of hair loss, scroll down this page! It is important to note that according to the AAD, we lose on average 50-100 strands of hair every day. Some people can lose more for genetic reasons. However, if you notice sudden or patchy hair loss or more than usual hair loss shedding when combing or washing your hair, Dr. Kartono is here to help. Sudden hair loss can signal a possible underlying medical condition that requires treatment. Other symptoms include feeling more fatigued than normal, unexpected weight loss/gain, and losing hair on your head, but gaining more on your body.What to Expect in the Clinic?
When you come into the clinic, we will ask you to describe how long you’ve had this condition and elaborate on more details, such as if you’ve ever seen another dermatologist, gotten any treatments or medications in the past, where it is located, what has made it better or worse, any patterns you notice, and how frustrated you are. Please come prepared with a list of any over-the-counter treatments and prescriptions you have tried in the past or are currently using, including topicals and oral medications. We will take pictures to track your progress. 
What Can We Do?
We will go over every treatment you have tried in the past. Dr. Kartono will then discuss the use of treatments vs. medications, both oral and topical. Dr. Kartono will most likely suggest a hair care routine that can be purchased over the counter, in combination with your new treatment/prescriptions. If we have samples or coupons of her suggestions in the clinic, we will provide you with them. Routine use of your new haircare routine will be crucial in seeing improvement. We may have to order lab work or perform a biopsy to determine the cause, as well as the specific diagnosis. Dr. Kartono may prescibe medications, suggest oral supplements, or recommend treatments. Treatment wise, Dr. Kartono may suggest PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma), certain laser therapies, injections in clinic, or hair transplants in extreme cases. Image sourced from DermNetTypes of Hair Loss
There are many forms of Alopecia, as outlined in the pink box to the right, but hair loss conditions are not strictly related to Alopecia, which means bald. Below, some other forms of hair loss are outlined. It is important to seek the help of a dermatologist to determine which form of hair loss you have, and what is the best treatment for you.
Lichen Planopilaris
Lichen Planopilaris (LPP) is a chronic inflammatory hair disorder that affects both men and women across different age groups. Its exact cause remains unknown, although various factors such as genetics, autoimmune responses, and viral infections are believed to contribute to its development. LPP attacks the hair follicles, leading to hair loss and scarring on the scalp, resembling smooth areas devoid of hair. This condition typically starts with itchiness, redness, and scaling, gradually progressing to irreversible hair loss. Although there is no known cure for LPP, treatments aiming to halt the disease progression and manage symptoms are available. Dermatologists often prescribe corticosteroid creams or injections, anti-inflammatory medications, and immunomodulators to reduce inflammation and stimulate hair regrowth. Early diagnosis and intervention play a critical role in improving the outcome of Lichen Planopilaris treatment.Telogen Effluvium
Telogen Effluvium is a common hair condition characterized by excessive hair shedding. It occurs when a large number of hair follicles prematurely enter the resting phase of the hair growth cycle, leading to increased hair loss. This condition is usually triggered by a significant physical or emotional stressor, such as pregnancy, surgery, drastic weight loss, emotional trauma, family issues, or certain medications. Telogen Effluvium can impact people of all ages, but it predominantly affects women in their reproductive years. The good news is that this condition is generally temporary and reversible. To manage Telogen Effluvium, addressing the underlying cause is crucial. This often involves stress management techniques, lifestyle modifications, and, in some cases, medical interventions such as topical treatments or supplements that promote hair growth. Additionally, adopting a balanced diet, incorporating gentle hair care practices, and seeking professional guidance, such as a dermatologist, may assist in restoring hair health and regrowth.Alopecia Areata
This type of hair loss occurs when the body attacks the hair follicles, causing patchy baldness anywhere on the body, including the scalp, beard area, eyebrows, eyelashes, armpits, inside the nose, or the ears. Alopecia Totalis
This is a more rare and perplexing hair loss condition that affects individuals of various ages and genders. Unlike its milder form, Alopecia Areata, which results in patchy hair loss, Alopecia Totalis leads to the complete absence of hair on the scalp. This condition can be incredibly challenging both physically and emotionally for those living with it, so it is important to provide support and understanding.Alopecia Universalis
Individuals diagnosed with this condition experience total baldness, including the loss of eyebrows, eyelashes, and all other body hair. This autoimmune disorder occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks the hair follicles, leading to hair loss. Alopecia Universalis can affect people of all ages, genders, and ethnic backgrounds, and its cause remains uncertain. Coping with this condition can be challenging, so it is important to create supportive environments for these individuals. Androgenetic Alopecia
This is often referred to as Female Pattern Hair Loss. This is a progressive condition and usually begins midlife, but it can start earlier for some women. Women tend to not lose all their hair like some men do, but they will notice their hair part often gets wider. It is a hereditary condition and more common after menopause.Androgenic Alopecia
This is the most common form of hair loss among men, often referred to as Male Pattern Hair Loss, and hormonal. It can start as early as late teens or early twenties for some. It tends to develop slowly, beginning as a receding hairline or bald spot on top of the hear, then causes thinning and balding over time. Men who get early treatment tend to see better results. Central Centrifugal Cicatrical Alopecia
This type of hair loss can cause permanent hair loss and often begins in the center of the scalp as a small, balding, and round patch that grows over time. While more common in black women, this can develop in men and people of all races. Early treatment is important because this disease destroys hair follicles, replacing it with scar tissue. Cicatricial Alopecia
Cicatricial Alopecia, also known as scarring alopecia, is caused by the destruction of hair follicles, which are replaced by scar tissue, leading to irreversible hair loss. Cicatricial Alopecia can be caused by a variety of factors including genetic predisposition, autoimmune diseases, traumatic injuries, or even certain medications. The symptoms may vary, but commonly include inflammation, itching, and burning sensation in the affected area. Frontal Fibrosing Alopecia
This type of hair loss looks like a receding hairline. It tends to start slowly, causing a thin band on balding skin. It can cause hair loss elsewhere on the body too. It is usually diagnosed in women after menopause, however some men have been diagnosed with it too.Traction Alopecia
Anyone who frequently wears a tightly pulled hairstyle can develop this form of hair loss. Whether its a sleek ponytail, cornrows, or tightly pulled up-do's, wearing your hair tightly bulled back often results in this type of hair loss. Triangular Alopecia
Triangular Alopecia, also known as Temporal Triangular Alopecia or Congenital Triangular Alopecia, is a rare form of hair loss characterized by a distinctive triangular pattern of hair loss. This condition typically begins in early childhood and affects a small area on either side of the hairline, creating a distinct bald patch in the shape of a triangle.The exact cause of Triangular Alopecia remains unknown, but it is believed to result from a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Unlike many other forms of hair loss, Triangular Alopecia does not involve hormonal imbalances or inflammation. It is generally considered a benign condition, not causing any harm to the overall health of individuals affected.Important Information about Treatments and Medications
Orals That Require Bloodwork
For cases of hair loss that are more severe or unresponsive to other treatments/medications, Dr. Kartono may prescribe medications that require us to monitor your blood work levels. These oral medications require blood work throughout the course of treatment, to ensure that you are not experiencing side effects during the treatment period. Blood work will also be required before and after treatment, to ensure that you are a good candidate for the medication and to effectively finish treatment. If you already have recent lab work results, feel free to bring them into your visit to speed up the process!Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP)
PRP injections are a great option, as they promote and maintain hair growth. This treatment uses your own blood cells to accelerate healing in specific hair loss areas. In the clinic, your blood will be drawn and put into a centrifuge. Once done in the centrifuge, your blood will have separated into three layers : platelet-poor plasma, platelet-rich plasma, and red blood cells. The platelet-rich plasma is then drawn through a syringe and injected into areas of the scalp that need increased hair growth.Viviscal Pro
This is a twice-a-day tablet that offers a 100% drug-free alternative to prescription treatments. AminoMar, an exclusive marine complex, helps encourage hair growth, while biotin, apple extract, and vitamin C help to strengthen and protect weak locks. These vital nutrients provide a vital supply to your follicles through the bloodstream, prolonging the growth cycle. Within three to six months, you can experience a noticeable difference in hair health!Good Hair Care Routines !!
first, schedule an appointment with a dermatologist to try and better understand what is causing your hair lossuse a gentle shampoo & moisturizing conditioner
avoid irritating ingredients and try to avoid fragrances
discontinue at-home coloring, perming, or chemical treatments to your hair
use the lowest settings on blow dryers, curling irons, and straighteners
stop wearing your hair tightly pulled back in a bun, ponytail, braids, or cornrows
brush or comb your hair gently and only enough to style it
eat healthy & avoid crash diets
before taking supplements to grow your hair, find out whether you are deficient in certain vitamins or minerals (taking too much of certain nutrients can lead to more hair loss)
Topical Rogaine
Rogaine is available for both men and women. Rogaine is a vasodilator, meaning it widens the blood vessels to let more blood flow through. When it is put on the scalp, it can make blood flow to the hair follicles, leading to more hair growth. It won't rescue a receding hairline, but it does stimulate hair growth. However, if you want to keep the new hair you have grown after starting to use Rogaine, you will have to continue to use it. If you stop using Rogaine, your new hair can start to fall out after a few months. Other Supplements
Some oral vitamins, such as probiotics, daily multivitamins, iron supplements, and hair vitamins, may help with hair loss. Dr. Kartono is happy to work with you during your appointment to find the best supplements for you.