Knowing the Cause is the First Step to the Right Treatment
Hair loss can feel overwhelming, but the good news is — not all hair loss is the same, and many types are treatable with the right diagnosis. At Rita Hair Therapist, we focus on uncovering the root cause to create effective, customized scalp therapy plans.
Here are the 5 most common types of hair loss we see in our practice:
Androgenetic Alopecia (Genetic Hair Loss)
The most common type of hair loss in both men and women.
- Often referred to as male or female pattern baldness
- Caused by a genetic sensitivity to DHT (a hormone that shrinks hair follicles)
- In men: receding hairline or bald spot
- In women: diffuse thinning at the crown or part line
- Progresses gradually over time
Best managed with long-term strategies like trichological stimulation, microcurrents, topical therapy, microneedling, and lifestyle adjustments.
Telogen Effluvium (Stress or Shock-Related Hair Loss)
Sudden and diffuse shedding due to a stressor or internal imbalance.
- Triggered by physical or emotional stress, surgery, illness, postpartum, crash dieting, or medications
- Hair enters the “resting” (telogen) phase and sheds all at once
- Often noticed 2–3 months after the trigger
- Typically temporary, but can become chronic if not addressed
Treated with scalp detox, LED therapy, nutritional support, and stress-balancing protocols.
Alopecia Areata (Autoimmune Hair Loss)
Patchy hair loss caused by the immune system attacking the follicles.
- Appears as small, round bald patches
- Can affect the scalp, eyebrows, or other body hair
- Can progress to total scalp (alopecia totalis) or full body hair loss (alopecia universalis)
- Often linked to emotional or autoimmune triggers
Requires calming therapies, immune-supporting scalp care, and may involve collaboration with medical professionals.
Traction Alopecia (Mechanical Hair Loss)
Hair loss caused by constant tension or pulling on the hair.
- Common in tight hairstyles: braids, weaves, ponytails, extensions
- Hairline (especially around the temples) is most affected
- Often reversible if caught early and tension is stopped
Treatable with gentle stimulation, scalp massage, topical strengthening, and education on healthy styling practices.
Trichotillomania (Hair-Pulling Disorder)
A psychological condition where a person compulsively pulls out their hair.
- Can result in patchy hair loss or thinning
- Often affects scalp, eyelashes, or eyebrows
- Emotional in origin — linked to anxiety or OCD
- May result in long-term damage to follicles if persistent
Requires a gentle, non-judgmental approach and often a referral for psychological support in addition to scalp recovery treatments.
Your Hair Has a Story — Let’s Understand It Together
Getting the right diagnosis is essential. With a professional trichology consultation, we identify the type of hair loss you’re experiencing and create a personalized, holistic treatment plan that fits your scalp, lifestyle, and wellness goals.
Book your scalp assessment today and start your journey to healthier hair.
Schedule a consultation or contact us for more info.
