Is Hair Loss Permanent?

The most common cause of hair loss in both men and women is hormonal sensitivity, specifically to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a derivative of testosterone.

Testosterone is converted into DHT in the body. DHT binds to hair follicle receptors and, in susceptible individuals, causes follicles to gradually shrink (miniaturize). Over time, this leads to:

• Thinner hair strands

• Shorter hair growth cycles

• Eventual cessation of hair growth in affected follicles

Although men typically have higher testosterone levels, DHT-driven hair loss affects both sexes. Differences in hair loss patterns occur because hair follicles vary in location and sensitivity to DHT.

• Men: Hair loss most commonly affects the temples, hairline, crown, and frontal scalp

• Women: Hair loss typically presents as diffuse thinning or a widening part, rather than complete baldness

Both men and women may also experience traction alopecia, a non-hormonal form of hair loss caused by chronic tension from tight hairstyles such as ponytails, braids, or extensions.

• Women: Hair thinning often progresses gradually and commonly appears between ages 30–60

• Men: Hormonal hair loss can begin as early as the late teens or 20s and may continue into later adulthood

Not all hair loss is permanent.

• Scarring hair loss, caused by inflammation that destroys hair follicles, is typically irreversible

• Non-scarring hair loss, such as androgenetic alopecia (pattern hair loss), is often treatable if follicles are still present

This is why early evaluation is critical—treatments are far more effective when started before follicles are permanently damaged.

Hair loss treatments range from over-the-counter options to prescription therapies. Many treatments focus on reducing DHT activity or stimulating hair growth.

Options may include:

• Topical treatments that promote hair growth

• Oral or topical medications that reduce DHT effects

• Light or laser therapy to stimulate follicles

• Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections using your own blood to encourage growth

While daily vitamins can support overall hair health, they are often not sufficient alone for hormone-related hair loss. A dermatologist can help determine which option—or combination—is best for your goals.

You should consider treatment if:

• Hair loss is cosmetically bothersome

• Thinning is progressive or worsening

• Hair loss may be linked to an underlying medical condition

Most hair loss is related to genetics, hormones, or aging. However, medical evaluation is important if you experience:

• Sudden or rapid hair shedding

• Patchy hair loss

• Scalp symptoms such as pain, itching, redness, or flaking

• Hair loss accompanied by other symptoms, including:

  • Unexplained weight changes

  • Fatigue

  • Skin rashes

  • Shortness of breath or chest pain

Significant physical or emotional stress (such as illness, surgery, medication changes, or major life stressors) can also cause temporary hair shedding (telogen effluvium), which may last up to six months but is often reversible.

Early evaluation helps rule out serious causes and improves the likelihood of regrowth.

Whether you want to explore treatment options or evaluate current hair loss, Call-On-Doc dermatologists are available seven days a week, without long waits or in-office visits.

• Start a consultation online

• Upload photos or choose phone or video visits

• Receive a personalized treatment plan

• Prescriptions sent to your pharmacy or delivered to your home

Call-On-Doc also offers subscription plans that include ongoing care, unlimited consultations, and home delivery of treatments.

Get started today and take control of your hair health.