What Is Alopecia?
Alopecia is a general term used to describe hair loss. There are various types of alopecia, that include both the nonscarring type, as well as scarring alopecia. With so many different types of alopecia and hair loss conditions, it is important that an accurate diagnosis be made so that treatment can be recommended. Some hair loss conditions can be treated, and the hair can grow back. If the hair follicle is destroyed, then permanent hair loss could result. The board-certified dermatologists at Snyder Dermatology in Austin, TX, are able to diagnose, treat, and manage hair loss in individuals with proven treatments that can help slow down or restore hair loss.
What Causes Alopecia?
Alopecia areata is one of the most common types of nonscarring hair loss and is caused when the immune system attacks hair follicles, which results in clumps of hair falling out, leading to smooth bald areas. It can affect both men and women, it is not contagious, and can also occur at any age range. Other types of nonscarring alopecia include telogen effluvium, which can cause hair shedding due to thyroid dysfunction, anemia, diabetes, postpartum, and hormone replacement; as well as anagen effluvium, which can be a side effect from treatments such as chemotherapy and radiation.
Scarring alopecia almost always occurs when inflammation or trauma has occurred to the hair follicle, which immediately (or in some cases, slowly) destroys it. Burns, infections, and skin diseases are examples of this, as well as repetitive hair pulling (known as trichotillomania). In addition, individuals who place extreme tension on their hair, such as braids, weaves, etc., can cause long-term trauma to the follicle.
Symptoms of Alopecia
Alopecia areata typically presents as sudden hair loss in small, round patches on the scalp, although it can also affect other areas of the body. These patches may be smooth or have a slightly different texture than the surrounding hair. Individuals may sometimes experience tingling or itching in the affected areas prior to hair loss. While alopecia areata doesn’t cause physical discomfort, the emotional impact of hair loss can be significant for those affected. In more severe cases, total hair loss on the scalp (alopecia totalis) or across the entire body (alopecia universalis) can occur.
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Have questions or want to schedule an appointment? Contact us today to speak with a member of the Snyder Dermatology team. We’re here to address your concerns with compassionate and effective care.
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Everyone here was so helpful and kind. I haven’t had many Dermatologists who took my case seriously and they were so professional and thorough. I would definitely recommend this office to anyone!
-Brian C.
“Dr. Rene Snyder is saving me from skin cancer. Over the years she has found numerous precancer spots on me, each time treating them with great care and minimal discomfort. And she offers a wide range of cosmetic treatments so I can age gracefully. I’m a lifelong fan.”
-Kim S.
Dr. Parker has been my dermatologist for years, and she is terrific. She saw my 14-year-old for the first time yesterday yesterday, and was very thorough, knowledgeable, and kind. She guided her through a skin care routine, and gave her lots of tips about keeping her skin fresh. We feel so lucky to know Dr. Parker.
-Sarah K.
Board-Certified Dermatologists
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Snyder Dermatology is the premier practice for medical and cosmetic dermatology in Austin, TX. Centrally located, our dynamic team of board certified dermatologists focus on providing patients with the most advanced medical care and treatment options. Our practice is distinguished by our compassion, our desire to fully understand our patients’ needs, and our commitment to being good stewards in the communities where we live and work.
How to Treat Alopecia
Treatment for alopecia will depend on the type of hair loss that is occurring and what is causing it. There are a number of medications (including corticosteroid injections to the scalp) and prescription shampoos that can be prescribed to help slow hair loss or stop it altogether. It is also important to understand that with alopecia, specifically alopecia areata, hair loss can be highly unpredictable and cyclical. So even with treatment, it is possible the hair can grow back and then fall out again. Every case is unique and is diagnosed and treated separately.
Schedule a Consultation
Snyder Dermatology offers treatment for hair loss and can start by offering a comprehensive medical exam and a scalp and hair analysis to confirm what is causing your hair loss. If you are suffering from hair loss and your hair thinning is becoming visible, or if you are experiencing balding in areas that are new, we invite you to call our office and schedule your exam. Every patient is treated with compassion and understanding, and our goal is to provide an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan that can help stop hair loss, reverse it, or even assist with new hair growth.