Let’s talk about hair loss…
Hair loss is a very common issue. In fact, it is thought that by the age of 35, up to two-thirds of men will experience some form of hair loss. There are different reasons for hair loss, Patrick Rice, PA-C helps us to understand further.
Why does hair loss happen?
There are many possible causes of hair loss. The most common cause in men is androgenic alopecia or male pattern baldness. This accounts for 95% of hair loss in men. This type occurs due to an abundance of a type of testosterone that causes the miniaturization.
For women the most common cause of hair loss is due to female pattern alopecia. The frequency and severity of the hair loss increases with age, so it’s important to talk to us about hair loss as early as possible once you experience symptoms.
Another common type of hair loss is alopecia areata. This type of hair loss typically results in small patches of complete hair loss. This is often related to stress and typically can be treated with complete resolution. Other types of hair loss are more rare and are typically related to inflammation occurring on the scalp.
What are my treatment options for hair loss?
Treatment is completely dependent on the type of hair loss that you are experiencing. First, we will determine the type of hair loss that you have. Some types of hair loss can be determined clinically (by looking at it); others require tests such as bloodwork or biopsy. Once we have a type of hair loss we can create a treatment plan.
Treatments can include topical treatment, oral medications, hair growth supplements, or in office procedures. Hair regrowth is typically very slow and the different types of hair loss will vary in their success rates of regrowth. The types of treatments discussed will depend on the type of hair loss. The regimen recommended will be a joint decision based on your comfort level with the options and what will be the most effective.
Who is most likely to experience hair loss?
The percentage of men with androgenic alopecia increases with age. As early as age 20, one in five males will experience visible hair loss. By age 60, two out of every three males will experience hair loss.
For women, female pattern hair loss tends to occur later. It is somewhat common after age 70 and can start occurring postmenopausal. About 25% of women will experience hair loss in their lives with it being more common with age. However, about 10% of women will experience premenopausal thinning.
When you should you make an appointment with us?
It is important to note that some daily hair loss is normal — between 50-100 hairs. However, if hair loss is abrupt, worsening, or has an associated rash or inflammation, please make an appointment with us.
If hair loss has been persistent and you have decided to pursue treatment, please make an appointment!
About Patrick Rice, PA-C
Patrick Rice is a board-certified Physician Assistant. He completed his Physician Assistant training in 2016 with a masters degree in medical sciences from the College of Health Sciences at Midwestern University in Glendale, Arizona before joining the GoldinSkin Dermatology team in October 2016.
In 2009, he graduated with a degree in industrial engineering and management sciences from Northwestern University’s McCormick School of Engineering. He then worked for a healthcare consulting company for two years before beginning his path to become a Physician Assistant.
Patrick grew up on the northwest side of Chicago. He enjoys seeing patients and treating a variety of skin conditions including rosacea, acne, eczema, psoriasis, skin cancer screenings, and more. He is a member of the American Association of Physician Assistants and the Society of Dermatology Physician Assistants.
Patrick is a movie buff, and loves to attend baseball and basketball games, and participate in recreational sports leagues.
Click here to request an appointment with Patrick, or call (847) 677-2080!