Book
Appt
Philadelphia and Mainline Center of Dermatology and Cosmetic Surgery

Written by Dr. Ringpfeil

Hair Loss Treatment

Hair loss is a common medical condition especially on the head (baldness) in men. Hair loss generally occurs as hair thinning and progresses to complete hair loss on major areas of the body such as legs, arms, back, and scalp. Although most people assume only men lose their hair, front scalp hair loss affects 58% of women and 75% of men. The common term for frontal baldness is "receding hairline" and typically advances to the mid to back of the head in male pattern baldness.

Causes of Hair Loss

Hair loss may occur because of various situations or medical factors. The term "Traction Alopecia" refers to hair loss induced by a person who pulls frequently on the hair. The same loss of hair can be induced by extreme force from a hairstyle such as cornrows or ponytails. Generally, hairstyles do not cause the loss of hair by themselves but if coupled with weak roots can contribute to mild baldness. Medical treatments such as chemotherapy or radiation, which severely weakens the body, are usually responsible for rapid and severe hair loss and may result in complete baldness. The hair often returns after the treatment stops. Individuals with hyperthyroidism also complain of patchy hair loss on the head, arms, and legs. Malnutrition, specifically lack of protein in the diet, often leads to thinning hair. Hair requires extensive protein use so without proper nutrition, the body cannot grow hair. Lastly, fungus infections of the hair follicle called folliculitis and ringworm infection of the scalp cause production of brittle hair that falls out easily.

wide spread alopecia areata
Picture 1: Wide spread Alopecia Areata

Hair Loss Diagnosis

Although the hair loss is usually obvious, the underlying cause may take time to determine. Doctors will ask about social history to determine any life changes or new diets that can be contributing to hair loss. Often the reason for hair loss is simply older age.

Hair Loss Prevention

If genetic, an individual cannot prevent hair loss. Male pattern baldness, originally believed to be passed down from the mother's grandfather, actually is contributed to by both parents. Maintaining a protein-rich diet and general health can reduce the occurrence of hair loss with old age. Some studies show that exercise may also increase the rate of hair growth.

Hair Loss Treatment

Forms of hair loss related to diet or medical treatment usually reverse when the circumstances stop. Patients undergoing cancer treatment should ask their doctor if the medications will contribute to hair loss. Other problems such as fungal infections require anti-fungal drugs to kill the organism. Normal hair growth usually returns once the treatment is finished. A few new drugs for men that promote hair growth and reduce loss are finasteride, Propecia, and minoxidil. Women have their own set of hair treatment drugs which are, finasteride, Aldactone, and Tagamet. Both men and women may opt for surgical hair restoration which transplants another person's hair or an individual's own hair to the bald area. Non-surgical hair replacements, such as wigs, are also extremely common and might be the most affordable alternative.

Hair Loss Support Group and Resources


American Hair Loss Association
23679 Calabasas Road # 682
Calabasas, CA 91301-1502

How can we help you?

SKIN

# of surveys: 4187
Last updated: 1/02/2024 11:10 AM

PATIENT RATINGS

Would you recommend us?

definitely
93.1%
probably
6.16%
maybe
0.58%
not likely
0.08%
no
0.02%

Compare our service to other similar practices

excellent
87.9%
very good
10.1%
good
1.8%
poor
0.06%
very poor
0%

Overall doctor performance

excellent
94.2%
very good
4.89%
good
0.80%
poor
0.03%
very poor
0%

The doctor listened to you attentively

excellent
93.9%
very good
4.97%
good
1.05%
poor
0.05%
very poor
0%

The doctor took time to answer your questions

excellent
94.0%
very good
4.66%
good
1.27%
poor
0.02%
very poor
0%

The doctor explained treatment options

excellent
94.3%
very good
4.16%
good
1.25%
poor
0.14%
very poor
0.02%

The doctor explained treatment options

excellent
92.0%
very good
5.69%
good
2.18%
poor
0.11%
very poor
0.0%

Front desk performance

excellent
85.6%
very good
10.2%
good
3.66%
poor
0.31%
very poor
0.08%

Aesthetician performance

excellent
88.6%
very good
7.61%
good
3.39%
poor
0.24%
very poor
0.08%

Office comfort

excellent
90.9%
very good
6.93%
good
2.08%
poor
0.05%
very poor
0.05%

Parking

excellent
66.4%
very good
14.4%
good
15.7%
poor
2.49%
very poor
0.9%

Friendliness of the staff during appointment

excellent
90.9%
very good
7.23%
good
1.85%
poor
0.05%
very poor
0%

What WE DID WELL

(Answers:674)

You people are superb. The doctor and the assistant understand what they are doing. The doctor really talks like a professional - she knows it for sure.

#12024-06-30

Doctor's thoroughness and bedside manner (and great blue eyes).

#22024-10-31

I really liked all aspects of my visist. I feel as though I have finally found a dermatologist. She and her staff were willingly to listen and give me their professional opinion and hopefully find a treament that will work longterm.

#32024-04-29

Took the time to diagnose the issue and once diagnosed, layed out my options and throughly explained everything.

#42011-05-20 16:26:57

very comfortable, but classy environment. Gave the feeling that the practice was upscale and therefore service would be quality

#52011-12-22 16:04:37

Just enjoyed everyone here at the practice. Medical excellece based on intelligence rather than ego (did I really say that)!

#62012-10-25 11:48:39

I ejoyed the beauty of the office-a nice place to be. I was anxious to meet the Dr.-and I found her to be great-very thouough,friendly and professional

#72023-12-21

The service was excellent. I really enjoyed my vist!

#82011-04-12 14:51:28

choice of music - French, Brazilian, etc appreciated being called when a cancellation opened up an appointment for me that was sooner than my originally scheduled appointment

#92024-09-22

Took the time to diagnose the issue and once diagnosed, layed out my options and throughly explained everything.

#102011-05-20 16:26:57

What can we do better?

(answers:373)

Being able to get an appointment at the time of the outbreak.

#12024-09-13

Don't change anything

#22024-08-12

It was a perfect experioence, I wouldn't change a thing!

#32024-03-13

No recommendations - very satisfied/pleased with everything about the visit and the office and the Doctor and her assistants. thank you to everybody for makinng me feel so comfortable (i was verrrrrry nerous)!!

#42024-06-01

receptioist is a little stiff and unwelcoming, but attentive proffessional.

#52024-08-29

I thought everyone was fantastic and very helpful-no suggestions had a great experience

#62023-12-06

I am very satisfied with my experience at Ringpfeil Dermatology. I travel to get here and it is worth the drive!

#72010-10-21 14:58:02

My only complaint is that I work and live (1 mile from) Center City, PA and I wish the office (Dr. Ringpfield) had weekend or later hours. Dr. Heckman was great but she cannot assist me with my cosmetic issues. Overall - like the office and professionalism.

#82011-08-10 18:44:27

My experience in the office today was absolutely excellent

#92024-08-06

no complains

#102024-07-04

Customer Rating : 4.7

Based on 637 ratings
Send us a message!

Enter your information, and we will text you shortly.