Hair Loss: Is It Just a Phase or Something More?

Diagnosis of Alopecia Symptoms

I previously shaved my head and now my hair has been growing for about a month and five days.
My classmates keep saying that I have bald spots.
I've had a large hair whorl since childhood, and I also have a double crown.
When my hair was longer, the whorl area was very noticeable.
I had it checked by a well-known doctor in Banqiao, and he said I do not have baldness.
However, during the regrowth process after shaving, I can clearly see my scalp.
I rarely eat greasy or sweet foods, and my parents do not have noticeable baldness.
Recently, when I wash my hair, the amount of hair I lose is almost zero.
Doctor, is my hair loss due to it not being long enough to cover my scalp, or is there an issue with baldness? Image: http://imgur.com/a/50XTq

Roger, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/08/31

Dr. Wu Yuxin reply Dermatology

Without actually seeing the lesion, it is impossible to determine the issue.
If it is very concerning, please seek medical attention as soon as possible.
A proper evaluation is necessary to understand the problem and to determine the appropriate treatment.

Reply Date: 2017/08/31

More Info

Understanding hair loss can be a complex issue, as it often involves a variety of factors including genetics, health conditions, lifestyle choices, and even psychological stress. Based on your description, it seems that you are experiencing some anxiety regarding your hair growth and the visibility of your scalp, especially after shaving your head. Let's break down the potential causes and considerations regarding your situation.

Firstly, it’s important to clarify that hair loss can manifest in different ways. The fact that you have a prominent hair whorl (or cowlick) is a normal anatomical feature and does not necessarily indicate hair loss. Many individuals have varying hair whorl patterns, and these can become more noticeable when hair is cut short or shaved. The visibility of your scalp may simply be a result of your hair being shorter and not necessarily an indication of thinning hair or baldness.

You mentioned that you have not observed significant hair loss when washing your hair, which is a positive sign. In general, it is normal to lose about 50 to 100 hairs a day as part of the natural hair growth cycle. If you are not experiencing this level of hair loss, it is likely that your hair is healthy, but the shorter length makes your scalp more visible.

Genetics plays a crucial role in hair loss. If your parents do not have a history of significant hair loss, it is less likely that you will experience the same issues. However, male pattern baldness can sometimes skip generations or manifest differently in individuals. If a medical professional has assessed your hair and confirmed that you do not have baldness, this is reassuring.

Another factor to consider is your diet and lifestyle. You mentioned that you avoid greasy and sweet foods, which is beneficial for overall health. A balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals, particularly those known to support hair health (like biotin, zinc, and vitamins A, C, D, and E), can promote healthy hair growth. If you feel your diet may be lacking, consider consulting a nutritionist for personalized advice.

Stress can also contribute to hair loss, so it’s essential to manage stress levels, especially if you are facing academic pressures or other life challenges. Techniques such as regular exercise, mindfulness, and adequate sleep can help mitigate stress and its potential effects on your hair.

If you are still concerned about the visibility of your scalp or the health of your hair, it may be beneficial to consult a dermatologist or a trichologist (a specialist in hair and scalp health). They can perform a thorough examination and may suggest treatments or lifestyle changes tailored to your specific needs.

In summary, based on your description, it seems that your hair loss may not be a cause for concern, especially since a professional has previously assessed your hair and found no signs of baldness. The visibility of your scalp is likely due to the short length of your hair rather than an underlying issue. However, maintaining a healthy lifestyle and seeking professional advice if you have ongoing concerns will always be beneficial for your overall hair health.

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