Scarring alopecia can lead to baldness

They are considered as autoimmune types of hair loss, because the white blood cells attack the hair follicle.

If not treated during the early stages, they can progress to the point where the affected area of the scalp can become completely bald. This happens because of destruction of the hair follicles.

We will look at two other types of CCA.

These are Lichen planopilaris and frontal fibrosis alopecia. The symptoms of lichen planopilaris, include tenderness, burning and itching scalp as well as peri-follicular lesions around the follicle. At a glance, this can be mistaken for inflammation with scales. During my consultation, I have recognised that in lichen planopilaris the skin has a “plastic-like” appearance similar to that of a very bad burn.

One of the symptoms of frontal fibrosis alopecia is receding hairlines --It appears like a baby’s skin without hair and with wrinkles. Since frontal fibrosis can look like adrogenetic alopecia or even traction alopecia to the unfamiliar eye, there can be misdiagnosis. Hence, a scalp biopsy is necessary to confirm the diagnosis.

These types of hair loss can be seen in young adults both male and female, but are mainly seen in women. This may be because the latter tend to seek help at the early sign of hair loss.

Most of the women who I see with these issues are mature, postmenopausal women who may be on different types of medication for health issues.

Research and education about hair loss continues, year after year, for us to be better able to assist our clients. One formula does not fit all and there can be a long period before you actually see results. There are times when a client can become despondent.

However, one must always remember that by the time help is sought for your hair loss it is already at an advance stage and may have been in the making for as much as ten years. Also, the rate of hair growth may be much slower for some, because of other underlying issues.

So clients must be prepared to wait for at least six months before seeing marginal results.

I always recommend a multi-therapeutic approach to fight hair loss. This will focus on both internal, such as nutrition and resolving autoimmune issues, and external, which involves topical treatment of the scalp.

Please remember that there are over 100 reasons for hair loss, and always consult your trichologist, to ensure a proper diagnosis and to have the right approach/treatment, tailored to your situation.