August is National Hair Loss Awareness Month, and FOX54 spoke with a local dermatologist about the causes and treatment options.
MADISON, Ala. — August is National Hair Loss Awareness Month, a time dedicated to breaking the stigma around hair thinning and baldness. While genetics are typically the primary culprit behind thinning hair, local medical professionals say recent health trends are driving an unexpected surge in patients seeking help.
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Dr. Patrick Carr, a physician at Southeastern Skin Cancer and Dermatology in Madison, says while androgenic alopecia remains the most frequent diagnosis in his clinic, a new trend has emerged in recent years.
“Lately, as a trend, we’re starting to see more and more in association with GLP-1s and weight loss drugs,” Dr. Carr explained. “Rapid weight loss, say 25 pounds over three months, rather than over the course of a year causes a temporary condition called telogen effluvium.”
Telogen effluvium is a temporary form of hair loss triggered by stress or nutritional deficiencies in the body. Dr. Carr notes that while this type of shedding is not permanent and will eventually recover, rapid weight changes are leading more individuals to seek medical evaluation.
It’s completely normal to shed between 50 and 100 strands of hair per day. Additionally, hair density naturally peaks in a person’s 20s and gradually decreases over time. However, Dr. Carr says sudden shifts in shedding or visible patterns of hair loss are clear signs that it’s time to consult a medical professional.
For women, hair loss often shows up as a widening part line on top of the scalp. For men, it often shows up as a receding hairline or thinning at the crown.
Because treatment approaches differ depending on whether hair loss is caused by genetics, rapid weight loss, autoimmune conditions like alopecia areata or stress, dermatologists emphasize the importance of early evaluation.
If you notice changes in your hair density, consult a board-certified dermatologist to determine the underlying cause and explore personalized prescription or over-the-counter treatment options.