Hair Loss Treatment in Washington, DC

What Causes Hair Loss?

Hair loss can develop for many reasons, and identifying the underlying cause is an important part of treatment.

Common causes may include:

• Hereditary or genetic hair loss
• Hormonal changes
• Stress or illness
• Certain medications
• Nutritional deficiencies
• Autoimmune conditions
• Scalp inflammation or infection
• Hairstyles or practices that place repeated tension on the hair
• Other medical conditions

Because different types of hair loss can look similar, a dermatologic evaluation can help determine what may be contributing to your symptoms.

Types of Hair Loss

Hair loss doesn't look the same for everyone. Depending on the underlying cause, patients may experience:

Thinning Hair

Gradual thinning may occur throughout the scalp or become more noticeable along the hairline or part.

Receding Hairline or Pattern Hair Loss

Some patients experience a gradual change in the hairline or progressive thinning in specific areas of the scalp.

Sudden or Excessive Shedding

Increased shedding may occur after illness, significant stress, hormonal changes, or other triggers.

Patchy Hair Loss

Hair may fall out in distinct areas or patches, sometimes associated with autoimmune or inflammatory conditions.

Traction-Related Hair Loss

Repeated tension from certain hairstyles or hair practices can contribute to hair loss, particularly around the hairline.

Scarring Hair Loss

Some inflammatory conditions can damage the hair follicle and result in permanent hair loss. Early evaluation is important when scarring hair loss is suspected.

Hair Loss and Skin of Color

Hair loss can affect people of every skin tone, but certain forms of hair loss and the ways they present may be particularly important to recognize in patients with skin of color.

Some inflammatory or scarring conditions can lead to permanent follicle damage if they are not identified and treated appropriately.

Dr. Holmes considers the patient's hair history, scalp findings, symptoms, medical history, and individual characteristics when evaluating hair loss and developing a treatment plan.

Learn more about Dermatology for Skin of Color in Washington, DC →

When Should You See a Dermatologist for Hair Loss?

Consider scheduling a dermatology evaluation if you notice:

• Sudden or rapid hair loss
• Increasing hair shedding
• A widening part or noticeable decrease in hair density
• Receding hairline
• Bald patches
• Hair loss accompanied by scalp itching, pain, burning, scaling, or tenderness
• Hair loss around the hairline
• Changes that continue despite changing your hair-care routine

Persistent or unexplained hair loss deserves evaluation. Dr. Holmes can help determine the underlying cause and discuss appropriate treatment options.

How Is Hair Loss Diagnosed?

A hair-loss evaluation begins with understanding your symptoms and history.

Dr. Holmes may consider:

• When the hair loss began
• Whether it is gradual or sudden
• Where the hair loss is occurring
• Changes in hair-care or styling practices
• Family history
• Medications and medical history
• Scalp symptoms
• Other changes in your health

Depending on the suspected cause, additional evaluation or testing may be recommended.

Hair Loss Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the underlying cause, type of hair loss, and individual needs.

Depending on your diagnosis, treatment may include medical therapies, topical treatments, scalp-directed treatments, procedures, or a combination of approaches.

Learn more about PRP for Hair Loss →

PRP for Hair Loss

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy uses a concentrated preparation of a patient's own blood components as part of a treatment approach for certain types of hair loss.

Whether PRP is appropriate depends on the type and cause of hair loss. Dr. Holmes can evaluate your scalp and discuss whether PRP or another treatment approach may be appropriate for you.

Learn more about PRP for Hair Loss →

Can Hairstyles Cause Hair Loss?

Certain hairstyles and hair practices that repeatedly place tension on the hair or scalp can contribute to hair loss.

If you notice thinning or recession around areas that experience repeated pulling or tension, consider discussing the changes with a dermatologist.

Early evaluation may help identify the cause and determine whether changes to styling practices or other treatment are appropriate.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hair Loss

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Why Choose Dr. Holmes for Hair Loss Treatment

Meet Dr. Yolanda C. Holmes

Dr. Yolanda C. Holmes is a board-certified dermatologist with more than 34 years of experience serving patients in Washington, DC.

Her approach to hair loss begins with identifying the underlying cause rather than treating hair thinning as a one-size-fits-all concern.

With experience caring for patients with diverse skin and hair types, Dr. Holmes provides individualized recommendations based on each patient's diagnosis, goals, and overall needs.

Learn more about Dr. Holmes →