Telling the main types of hair loss apart

Androgenetic (pattern) hair loss

Gradual, symmetrical miniaturisation at the crown, temples or part line. Hairs get finer and shorter before they disappear.

It is progressive and hormone-sensitive, so the plan is long-horizon: continuous support rather than a short course.

Telogen effluvium

Diffuse shedding across the whole scalp, usually two to three months after a trigger: illness, surgery, childbirth, crash dieting, thyroid shifts or acute stress.

It is typically self-limiting. The work is removing the trigger, supporting nutrition, and staying patient through a 6–9 month recovery.

Alopecia areata

Sudden, sharply defined circular patches with smooth skin. It is autoimmune, can relapse, and warrants a clinician's input alongside any supportive regimen.

Scarring alopecia

Shiny patches with loss of follicular openings, often with burning, itching or redness. This is the one category where delay costs permanent follicles.

If your assessment flags scarring features, book a dermatology appointment — a regimen is supportive only.