The Different Types and Patterns of Hair Loss

Hair loss doesn’t look the same for everyone. While some people notice gradual thinning over time, others may experience sudden shedding or patchy bald spots. Recognizing the type and pattern of hair loss you’re experiencing is a key step in determining the right treatment. At Renovo Hair Restoration & Wellness, we help clients understand these patterns so we can address them with precision and care.

1. Androgenetic Alopecia (Pattern Baldness)

This is the most common type of hair loss, driven by genetics and hormone sensitivity.

• In men: Often begins with a receding hairline and thinning at the crown, eventually progressing into more widespread balding. This pattern is commonly called male-pattern baldness.

• In women: Usually appears as a gradual widening of the part or overall diffuse thinning on the crown, while the hairline often stays intact. This is known as female-pattern hair loss.

2. Telogen Effluvium (Diffuse Shedding)

This type occurs when stress, illness, or other triggers push a large number of hairs into the resting (telogen) phase.

• Appears as all-over thinning rather than distinct bald spots.

• Common after major surgery, illness, childbirth, or significant stress.

• Typically temporary, with hair regrowth possible once the underlying cause is managed.

3. Alopecia Areata (Patchy Hair Loss)

An autoimmune condition where the body’s immune system attacks hair follicles.

• Appears as small, round bald patches on the scalp or body.

• In some cases, it can progress to complete scalp baldness (alopecia totalis) or total body hair loss (alopecia universalis).

• May come and go in cycles, with regrowth possible.

4. Traction Alopecia

Caused by consistent pulling on the hair follicles over time.

• Common in people who wear tight hairstyles such as braids, ponytails, or extensions.

• Usually affects the hairline and edges.

• Early intervention can allow regrowth, but prolonged traction may cause permanent follicle damage.

5. Scarring Alopecia (Cicatricial Alopecia)

A group of rare conditions that destroy hair follicles and replace them with scar tissue.

• Leads to permanent hair loss in the affected areas.

• Can be linked to inflammatory scalp conditions, infections, or autoimmune disease.

• Early treatment is essential to prevent progression.

6. Involutional Alopecia (Age-Related Hair Thinning)

A natural part of aging where hair gradually becomes thinner and less dense.

• Hairs grow slower, follicles shrink, and overall volume decreases.

• Usually not patchy, but rather an overall reduction in thickness and fullness.

Why Understanding Patterns Matters

Different hair loss patterns point to different causes—and therefore, different solutions. For example, androgenetic alopecia may respond well to targeted treatments that address DHT sensitivity, while telogen effluvium requires identifying and addressing the underlying trigger.

At Renovo Hair Restoration & Wellness, we carefully assess your scalp, health history, and lifestyle factors to determine the type and pattern of your hair loss. This allows us to create a customized plan that gives you the best chance of restoring not just your hair, but your confidence.