Hair Loss: Is It Male Pattern Baldness or Follicle Damage?

Q: Hair Loss: Is It Male Pattern Baldness or Follicle Damage?

Hello： Based on your description, it seems more like a case of male pattern baldness. <br>Of course, the actual situation can only be determined after an examination. <br>In Taichung City, any dermatology specialty medical institution can provide treatment. <br>Here are some opti

Alopecia

Doctor, during my military service, I experienced folliculitis due to prolonged helmet use.
After treatment, my scalp condition improved, but I have since developed hair loss (only on the sides of my forehead and the top of my head).
Is this male pattern baldness, or is it due to follicle damage? My hair is also relatively fine and appears sparse.
Are there any clinics in Taichung that offer professional treatment?

A Yuan, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/06/12

Dr. Zheng Lizhen reply Dermatology

Hello: Based on your description, it seems more like a case of male pattern baldness.
Of course, the actual situation can only be determined after an examination.
In Taichung City, any dermatology specialty medical institution can provide treatment.
Here are some options:
- Dr.
Wen Bing-nan, Taichung Hospital, 0422294411-2771, No.
199, Section 1, Sanmin Road, Taichung City
- Dr.
Li Wei-min, Li Wei-min Dermatology Clinic, 0422375773, 3rd Floor, No.
392-2, Jinhua North Road, Taichung City
- Dr.
Lin Zheng-fu, Lin Dermatology Clinic, 04-22024045, No.
33, Daye Road, North District, Taichung City
- Dr.
Huang Jian-ren, China Medical University Hospital, 04-22032121-2023, No.
95, Bachelor Road, North District, Taichung City
- Dr.
Li Fang-liang, Li Fang-liang Dermatology Clinic, 04-22611866, No.
34-1, Section 2, Fuxing Road, South District, Taichung City
- Dr.
Wang Yi-hui, Wang Yi-hui Dermatology Clinic, 04-22965052, No.
99-16, Zhongqing Road, Taichung City
- Dr.
Li Yuan-pi, Li Yuan-pi Dermatology Clinic, 04-22333800, No.
378-3, Jinhua North Road, North District, Taichung City
- Dr.
Yang Ren-hong, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, 0424739595 ~ 34523, No.
110, Jian Guo North Road, South District, Taichung City
- Dr.
Wu Ji-shi, Wu Ji-shi Dermatology Clinic, 04-23720434, 2nd Floor, No.
18-3, Jinshan Road, Taichung City
- Dr.
Liao Nian-chang, Liao Nian-chang Dermatology, 04-22928893, Section 3, Wenxin Road, Taichung City
- Dr.
Huang Cong-he, Cheng Mei Dermatology Clinic, 04-22247787, No.
210-2, Section 3, Sanmin Road, Taichung City
- Dr.
Wu Chang-yi, Guangze Dermatology Clinic, 04-23285578, No.
392, Section 1, Xiangshang Road, Taichung City
- Dr.
Zheng Ji-fa, Zheng Ji-fa Dermatology, 04-27019815, No.
311, Section 2, Henan Road, West District, Taichung City
- Dr.
Zheng Hui-man, China Medical University Hospital, 0422052121-5088, No.
2, Yude Road, Taichung City
- Dr.
Chen Jian-zhou, Jian-zhou Dermatology Clinic, 04-23780088, No.
658, Section 1, Meicun Road, West District, Taichung City
- Dr.
Zhu Yi-qing, Zhu Dermatology Clinic, 04-23726046, No.
781, Section 1, Meicun Road, Taichung City
- Dr.
Lin Jun-liang, Lin Jun-liang Clinic, 04-23823885, No.
1041, Section 1, Liming Road, South District, Taichung City
- Dr.
Yang Qian-ru, Taishin Hospital, 04-22139966, No.
439-3, Zhenxing Road, Taichung City
- Dr.
Mo Xiao-hua, Mo Xiao-hua Dermatology Clinic, 0423143016, No.
24, Section 2, Hankou Road, West District, Taichung City
- Dr.
Chen Jun-yi, Chen Jun-yi Dermatology Clinic, 04-24519589, No.
336, Section 3, Liming Road, West District, Taichung City
- Dr.
Wang Xi-qing, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, 04-23592525 ext.
5303, Taichung Veterans General Hospital
- Dr.
Huang Li-ling, Mingxing Dermatology Clinic, 04-23288133, No.
828, Dadun Road, 1st Floor, Taichung City
- Dr.
Lai Hsien-hong, Lai Hsien-hong Dermatology Clinic, 04-23027868, No.
279, Section 1, Xiangshang Road, Taichung City
- Dr.
Gao Jia-jun, Gao Jia-jun Dermatology Clinic, 04-22231122, No.
31, Taichung Road, East District, Taichung City
- Dr.
Lai Qi-xian, Lai Qi-xian Dermatology Clinic, No.
636, Jinhua Road, Taichung City
- Dr.
Cai Dong-jia, Dong-jia Dermatology Clinic, 04-24738358, No.
179, Section 2, Dongxing Road, Taichung City
- Dr.
Chen Yi-ru, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, 04-23592525, No.
160, Section 3, Zhonggang Road, Taichung City
- Dr.
Liu Zheng-yi, Liu Zheng-yi Dermatology Clinic, 04-24617280, No.
166-4, Section 3, Xitun Road, Taichung City
- Dr.
Zeng Shi-zi, Rui'an Clinic, 04-24633530, No.
946, Section 3, Qinghai Road, West District, Taichung City
- Dr.
Huang Qian-ming, Huang Qian-ming Dermatology Clinic, 04-22429231, No.
330, Section 1, Changping Road, Taichung City
- Dr.
Zhang Xiu-cheng, China Medical University Hospital Dermatology, 04-22062121 ext.
4436, No.
2, Yude Road, North District, Taichung City
- Dr.
Yuan Shang-wen, Liao Nian-chang Dermatology Clinic, 04-22928893, No.
1031, Section 3, Wenxin Road, Taichung City
- Dr.
Chen Ru-xin, Taichung Chengqing Hospital, 04-24632000, No.
118, Section 3, Zhonggang Road, Taichung City
Best regards.

Reply Date: 2006/06/12

More Info

When it comes to hair loss, distinguishing between male pattern baldness (androgenetic alopecia) and follicle damage is crucial for determining the appropriate treatment. Based on your description, it seems that you experienced hair loss following a period of wearing a steel helmet, which led to folliculitis (inflammation of the hair follicles). This condition can indeed cause temporary hair loss, but it can also lead to more permanent damage if the follicles are severely affected.

Male pattern baldness is characterized by a specific pattern of hair loss, typically starting at the temples and crown of the head. It is primarily driven by genetic factors and the influence of androgens (male hormones). In contrast, follicle damage due to inflammation or trauma can lead to hair loss that may not follow the typical patterns associated with male pattern baldness. If the follicles were damaged but not completely destroyed, there is a possibility that hair regrowth could occur, especially if the inflammation has been resolved.

Given that you have noted thinning hair and a sparse appearance, it is essential to consider both possibilities. If the hair loss is localized to the frontal and crown areas, it may suggest male pattern baldness. However, if there was significant inflammation and subsequent scarring, it could indicate that the follicles have been permanently damaged.

To assess your condition accurately, it would be beneficial to consult with a dermatologist or a trichologist (a specialist in hair and scalp disorders). They can perform a thorough examination of your scalp and hair follicles, possibly including a scalp biopsy if necessary, to determine the health of your hair follicles and the underlying cause of your hair loss.

In terms of treatment options, if it is determined that you are experiencing male pattern baldness, treatments such as minoxidil (Rogaine) or finasteride (Propecia) may be recommended. Minoxidil is a topical solution that can stimulate hair growth and slow down hair loss, while finasteride is an oral medication that reduces the levels of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone linked to hair loss in genetically predisposed individuals.

If the hair loss is due to follicle damage, treatments may focus on promoting scalp health and potentially stimulating hair regrowth. Options may include topical treatments, laser therapy, or even platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy, which involves injecting your own platelets into the scalp to promote healing and hair growth.

In Taichung, there are several clinics and hospitals that specialize in dermatology and hair restoration. You may want to look for reputable dermatology clinics or hair restoration centers that offer consultations and treatments for hair loss. It is advisable to read reviews and possibly seek recommendations to find a qualified professional who can provide the care you need.

In summary, the key steps to take include consulting with a specialist to determine the cause of your hair loss, exploring appropriate treatment options based on the diagnosis, and considering lifestyle factors that may contribute to hair health. Remember that early intervention can often lead to better outcomes, so seeking professional advice sooner rather than later is advisable.

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