Diffuse Alopecia
Definition
Diffuse alopecia is a form of hair loss that mainly affects women, causing visible thinning in the parietal area and the top of the scalp. It occurs when a large number of hair follicles simultaneously enter the final stage of their life cycle, resulting in intense hair shedding and thinning. Hair loss typically becomes noticeable approximately 3 months after the condition begins, although in some cases it may appear suddenly.
Although the reduction in hair density can negatively impact self-confidence and social life, there are now effective treatments that offer the potential to restore hair volume.
• Identification of the cause of hair loss
• Personalized treatment plan
• Safety & natural-looking result
Types
Depending on its characteristics, diffuse alopecia is categorized as:
• Acute: Sudden hair loss
• Subacute: Gradual hair shedding lasting several months
• Chronic: Recurrent thinning, with overall hair loss persisting for more than 6 months
Causes
- • Physical or psychological trauma
• Chronic diseases (e.g., lupus, liver and kidney disorders)
• Certain medications (e.g., NSAIDs, retinoids, anticoagulants)
• Thyroid disorders
• Anemia
• Severe stress
• Heavy metal poisoning
• Starting or stopping oral contraceptives
• Heredity
• Hormonal imbalances (during pregnancy or menopause)
• Crash diets leading to sudden weight loss
Diagnosis
The patient must undergo specific tests to exclude pathological causes and assess the extent of alopecia. Diagnostic methods help identify the cause of hair loss and guide the selection of the appropriate treatment. Examinations may include:
• Blood tests
• Biopsy
• Pull test
• Trichogram
• Phototrichogram
• Trichoscopy
• DNA Genetic Testing
Treatments
The treatment of diffuse alopecia is individualized. First, the cause of the hair loss must be identified in order to propose the appropriate conservative treatment by a dermatologist.
There are non-invasive treatments that stimulate hair follicles in thinning areas, promoting the growth of new hair. After diagnosis, treatment is based on test results and includes various methods to strengthen hair regrowth.
Topical administration of medications for follicle stimulation
Minoxidil, in a 2% or 5% solution, is applied topically to the scalp twice daily and is mainly used to treat chronic diffuse alopecia. Minoxidil is one of the few pharmaceutical treatments with proven efficacy in hair loss and has been safely used worldwide for over 20 years. Dutasteride, finasteride, and minoxidil injections may also be used in treatment.
LED Phototherapy
Enhances microcirculation in the scalp, thus promoting faster hair growth.
Autologous Hair Mesotherapy with Growth Factors – PRP
PRP autologous mesotherapy is an advanced, non-invasive method that rejuvenates the skin using the patient’s own platelets. It involves injecting growth factors, vitamins, and amino acids, providing regenerative and hair-growth-stimulating action, without side effects or pain.
The results are immediately visible and long-lasting. Sessions last approximately 30–45 minutes and are performed without the need for local anesthesia, with repeat sessions every month for optimal results.
Hair Regeneration with Low Level LASER Therapy
This method uses low-energy LASER light to effectively stimulate hair regrowth. The scalp is exposed to three different wavelengths of light, which have been shown to activate hair growth. The LASER energy acts on weak follicles, halts hair loss, and promotes the growth of stronger, denser, and more voluminous hair.
Hair Transplantation
In cases of significant hair loss leading to extensive thinning, hair transplantation using the FUE technique is the most appropriate solution. This method is simple to perform and offers excellent results by extracting individual hair follicles from the donor area.
Healthy follicles are implanted into the affected area to restore natural hair growth. The FUE method ensures 100% natural-looking results, without pain, stitches, or scarring, allowing for immediate return to daily activities and minimal recovery time.
It can also be used to increase hair density in areas such as the beard, eyebrows, and eyelashes, while the option of unshaven application (Unshaven FUE) makes the procedure even more convenient.
The method guarantees the number of implanted follicles and provides a highly effective solution for those seeking to restore their natural appearance. Depending on diagnostic findings, treatments can also be combined for better results.
At Optimum Dermatology, with our years of experience, we will design a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs, ensuring the best possible outcome.