We frequently are asked by patients whether they have alopecia. While recognizing that hair loss is occurring is the first step, the next steps involve exploring what type of alopecia is present.
Hair plays a pivotal role in our appearance and self-confidence. However, experiencing alopecia can disrupt this balance, causing distress for many individuals. At HMGS Dermatology, we specialize in diagnosing and treating the important conditions that cause alopecia to help you regain control over your hair health.

Alopecia: Causes and Treatments
Alopecia refers to hair loss that can occur on the scalp or other parts of the body. There are various types of alopecia:
- Androgenetic Alopecia: Commonly known as male or female pattern baldness.
- Telogen effluvium: Sudden onset hair loss often occurring after a severe illness or stressful event.
- Tinea Capitis: Known to many as “ringworm”, is not a worm, wig, or a really a ring at all. This is a fungal infection, often seen on the scalp of children.
- Alopecia Areata: An autoimmune condition impacting pediatric and adult patients causing patchy hair loss that sometimes involves the entire scalp, eyebrows, eyelashes, and/or body hair.
- Traction Alopecia: Presents at the edges and often seen in Black women due to tight hairstyles.
- Central Centrifugal Cicatricial Alopecia (CCCA): A scarring alopecia along the crown, that is more prevalent among Black women over the age if 30.
- Frontal Fibrosing Alopecia (FFA): A scarring condition along the frontal hairline, that is more often seen in postmenopausal, White women.
HMGS Dermatology also diagnose the less common causes: aplasia cutis congenita, loose anagen hair syndrome, short anagen hair syndrome, papular atrichia, trichotillomania, chemotherapy induced, dissecting cellulitis, acne keloidalis nuchae, erosive pustular dermatosis, lichen planopilaris, folliculitis decalvans, and scarring alopecias from discoid lupus, sarcoidosis, and syphilis.
We have vast experience in hair loss that occurs in neonates, children, teens, and adults. Our team regularly takes care of alopecias that are more common in Black hair.
Treatment options will vary depending on the specific type of alopecia. That is where the HMGS providers will help. Diagnosis is critical for exploring the correct treatment.
Low dose oral minoxidil, topical minoxidil, finasteride, dutasteride, steroid injections (ILK), Olumiant, Litfulo, hydroxychloroquine, tacrolimus, pimecrolimus, topical corticosteroids, topical JAK inhibitors, doxycycline, retinoids, prednisone, anthralin cream, mycophenolate mofetil, and methotrexate are some of the therapies our providers utilize to combat alopecia.
Learn more about our specialized treatments for alopecia by visiting our Alopecia Treatment Page.

Why Choose HMGS Dermatology?
At HMGS Dermatology, we offer personalized care tailored to your unique needs. Our team of board-certified dermatologists combines cutting-edge technology with compassionate care to address conditions like alopecia effectively.
Whether you are looking to find out why you are losing your hair, maintain what you have, or grow new hair, we are here to help you achieve your goals. Visit our website at HMGS Dermatology to learn more about our services.
Your Journey to Healthy Hair Starts Here!
If you’re struggling with alopecia, don’t wait any longer to seek professional help. Schedule a consultation today with one of our expert dermatology providers at HMGS Dermatology. Take the first step toward reclaiming your confidence!

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