hair loss on top of head

Losing hair on top of your head can be a distressing experience, especially if you’re not sure what’s causing it. The good news is that there are a number of things you can do to stop hair loss and promote hair growth.

8 Causes of Hair Loss on Top of Head

1. Androgenetic Alopecia (Male-Pattern Baldness)

According to the American Hair Loss Association, androgenetic alopecia is the most common cause of hair loss in men, affecting up to 50% of men by the age of 50. It is also a common cause of hair loss in women, affecting up to 40% of women by the age of 60.

Androgenetic alopecia is caused by a combination of genetics and hormones. Men with a family history of baldness are more likely to experience hair loss. The hormone testosterone also plays a role in hair loss. Testosterone is converted to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which can damage hair follicles and cause hair loss.

2. Telogen Effluvium

Telogen effluvium is a temporary condition that can cause hair loss all over the scalp, including the top of the head. It is often caused by a stressful event, such as surgery, illness, or childbirth. Telogen effluvium typically resolves itself within 6 to 12 months.

3. Alopecia Areata

Alopecia areata is an autoimmune condition that causes hair loss in round or oval patches. It can affect any part of the scalp, including the top of the head. Alopecia areata is not contagious. It is thought to be caused by a malfunction of the immune system.

4. Tinea Capitis (Ringworm)

Tinea capitis is a fungal infection of the scalp that can cause hair loss. It is most common in children. Tinea capitis is contagious and can be spread through contact with an infected person or animal.

5. Traction Alopecia

Traction alopecia is hair loss that is caused by pulling or tension on the hair. It can be caused by hairstyles that put stress on the hair, such as tight ponytails or braids. Traction alopecia is more common in women than in men.

6. Trichotillomania

Trichotillomania is a mental health condition that causes people to pull out their hair. It can affect any part of the body, including the scalp. Trichotillomania is more common in children and adolescents, but it can also affect adults.

7. Medications

Some medications can cause hair loss as a side effect. These medications include chemotherapy drugs, blood thinners, and antidepressants. Hair loss from medications typically resolves itself once the medication is stopped.

8. Medical Conditions

Some medical conditions can cause hair loss, including thyroid disease, lupus, and cancer. Hair loss from medical conditions is typically treated by addressing the underlying condition.

How to Stop Hair Loss on Top of Head

There are a number of things you can do to stop hair loss on top of your head, including:

1. Minoxidil

Minoxidil is a topical medication that is used to treat hair loss. It is available over-the-counter in a 2% or 5% solution. Minoxidil works by increasing blood flow to the hair follicles. This can help to prevent hair loss and promote hair growth.

2. Finasteride

Finasteride is a prescription medication that is used to treat male-pattern baldness. It works by blocking the conversion of testosterone to DHT. This can help to prevent hair loss and promote hair growth.

3. Laser Therapy

Laser therapy is a treatment that uses low-level lasers to stimulate hair growth. It is available in both home-use and professional-use devices. Laser therapy is thought to work by increasing blood flow to the hair follicles and by stimulating the production of hair growth factors.

4. Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP)

PRP is a treatment that uses your own blood to promote hair growth. Blood is drawn from your arm and then spun in a centrifuge to separate the platelets from the red blood cells. The platelets are then injected into the scalp. PRP is thought to work by releasing growth factors that stimulate hair growth.

5. Hair Transplant

A hair transplant is a surgical procedure that involves moving hair follicles from one part of the scalp to another. Hair transplants are typically used to treat male-pattern baldness.

Tips and Tricks for Preventing Hair Loss on Top of Head

In addition to the treatments listed above, there are a number of things you can do to prevent hair loss on top of your head, including:

• Eat a healthy diet. A healthy diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help to promote overall hair health.
• Get regular exercise. Exercise can help to reduce stress, which can be a contributing factor to hair loss.
• Get enough sleep. Sleep is essential for overall health, including hair health.
• Manage stress. Stress can be a contributing factor to hair loss. Find healthy ways to manage stress, such as exercise, yoga, or meditation.
• Avoid hairstyles that put stress on the hair. Hairstyles that put stress on the hair, such as tight ponytails or braids, can cause traction alopecia.
• Use gentle hair care products. Harsh hair care products can damage the hair and lead to hair loss. Use gentle shampoos and conditioners that are designed for your hair type.
• Protect your hair from the sun. The sun’s UV rays can damage the hair and lead to hair loss. Wear a hat or use a sunscreen spray to protect your hair from the sun.

FAQs About Hair Loss on Top of Head

1. What is the most common cause of hair loss on top of head?

The most common cause of hair loss on top of head is androgenetic alopecia (male-pattern baldness).

2. Is hair loss on top of head reversible?

Hair loss on top of head can be reversible in some cases, depending on the cause of the hair loss. For example, hair loss caused by telogen effluvium is typically reversible. Hair loss caused by androgenetic alopecia is not reversible, but it can be treated to slow down the progression of hair loss and promote hair growth.

3. What are the best treatments for hair loss on top of head?

The best treatments for hair loss on top of head depend on the cause of the hair loss. Minoxidil, finasteride, laser therapy, and PRP are all effective treatments for hair loss.

4. How can I prevent hair loss on top of head?

There are a number of things you can do to prevent hair loss on top of head, including eating a healthy diet, getting regular exercise, getting enough sleep, managing stress, avoiding hairstyles that put stress on the hair, using gentle hair care products, and protecting your hair from the sun.

5. When should I see a doctor about hair loss on top of head?

You should see a doctor about hair loss on top of head if you are concerned about the amount of hair you are losing or if you have any other symptoms, such as itching, burning, or pain.

6. Is hair loss on top of head a sign of cancer?

Hair loss on top of head can be a sign of cancer, but it is not a common symptom. If you are concerned that your hair loss may be a sign of cancer, you should see a doctor right away.