How long does Hair Loss last?

Hair loss is a fairly common problem, but it can be a tough to live with as hair forms an important part of one’s appearance. There are several causes of hair loss and its severity varies depending on the underlying cause.

How long does hair loss last?

Androgenetic alopecia: This is the most common cause of hair loss and it is inherited i.e. it’s passed down from one or both of your parents. It causes hair loss in both men and women. It is a progressive form of hair loss in which the hair does not grow back naturally. In men, the hair loss may start by their twenties or thirties and in some, it may progress to baldness. In women, this type of hair loss starts usually after menopause. Treatment may decrease hair loss and outlook is good when treatment is started early. Early treatment with medications (minoxidil and finasteride) can prevent hair loss.

Alopecia areata: Hair loss in alopecia areata occurs in patches of about 1 inch in diameter.  Most people with alopecia areata have no other symptoms. In some, the finger nails may also be affected. This is usually a self limiting cause of hair loss that lasts only a short duration in most people. In most cases, the hair loss improves considerably within 6 to 12 months without treatment.

Hair loss with age: Hair gets thinner with age as less hair grow and tend to break more easily. Severity of hair loss can vary and hair in this type of hair loss does not grow back naturally.

Other causes of hair loss: Hair loss because of certain medications, nutritional deficiency, stress, including physical stress from surgery, illness or high fever usually improves with treatment and correction of the underlying cause. In these conditions, the hair may grow back normally in a few months.