Hair loss
Hair Loss (Alopecia)
- The most common type of hair loss is androgenetic alopecia (male pattern balding or female pattern hair loss)- there are long-term treatment options but with variable clinical response.
- Alopecia Areata is another common type of hair loss which usually responds well to treatment.
Hair Loss
We lose hair on a daily basis, and it is normal to have 50-100 strands of hair fall a day. However, if there is significant hair thinning, receding hairline or obvious bald patches seen, you may have the following types of alopecia.
Androgenetic Alopecia
This is the most common type of hair loss experienced by many people, some even experience it at an early age. Due to a combination of genetic and hormonal factors, the hair follicles become reduced in numbers, and are more fine and smaller in size. Men may notice receding frontal hairline with balding and hair thinning at the top of the head. Women may notice widening of their hair parting or thinning at the top of the head.
Alopecia Areata
This is the formation of distinctive round bald patches which are visible on any part of the scalp hair, and can also affect the beard area, moustache and eyebrows.
There are other types of hair loss (telogen effluvium, other more uncommon scarring hair loss). Factors which can affect hair loss include genetic and hormonal factors, stress, poor nutrition, infections, underlying medical conditions and certain medications.
Our dermatologist can help to evaluate the various causes of hair loss, and may recommend blood test screening or even skin biopsy of the scalp for certain types of inflammatory or scarring hair loss conditions.
Treatment for Hair Loss
Topical treatment (minoxidil) can be applied to the scalp to promote hair growth.
There are oral supplements which may help certain people with hair loss.
Regular intralesional steroid injections for bald patches of alopecia areata is usually effective in promoting hair regrowth. For severe cases, contact sensitization treatment using topical application of a chemical on the scalp can help to stimulate the immune system and increase hair growth.
Oral medication (finasteride) can be added on for male pattern hair loss treatment. Low level laser therapy (hair device) may be helpful for some people with androgenetic alopecia.
Other treatment such as hair transplantation may be considered.
DISCLAIMER:
The information written and published on this website is not intended to substitute the recommendations of a trained professional and does not replace a professional consultation.
It is advisable to undergo a formal consultation to help establish a relationship between the doctor and yourself, accurately determine your concerns/problems, and get the appropriate treatments for them.
It is also imperative to note that the contents of the website with respect to treatments, results and pricing can vary from individual to individual, and can only be accurately determined by the doctor upon diagnosis.
Do note that all medical treatments will only be administered upon proper consultation, with the requirement that patients be above 21 years of age to provide legal consent.
Medical Dermatology
Meet your Dermatologist
Dr Tay Liang Kiat
Dermatologist
Dr Tay Liang Kiat is a fully accredited Dermatologist who specialises in skin cancers, Mohs micrographic surgery, dermatologic and nail surgery, aesthetic dermatology and laser procedures. With more than 20 years of clinical experience, he also manages other aspects of general ambulatory and inpatient dermatology, including eczema, psoriasis, acne, urticaria, hair loss, children skin issues and other complex medical dermatology. In addition, he has expertise in the use of the latest immunotherapy (biologics) treatment for severe eczema, psoriasis and urticaria.
