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What are the Different Kinds of Alopecia?

"Alopecia" is a scientific term - a medical term, to be precise. It's better known in the modern world as "hair loss." Hair loss in itself is not a simple concept; until today, it's being studied and new remedies are being discovered. Different kinds of alopecia would require different forms of treatment.

Different kinds of alopecia are usually detected by the patterns they form. The most common kind of natural hair loss is androgenetic alopecia, which usually characterizes itself by the thinning and falling out of hair in the forehead area, resulting in a receding hairline. Middle-aged men usually experience this form of alopecia, although sometimes younger men and some women also experience it.

Natural hair loss is explained by the presence of male androgens in the human body. Everyone - male or female - is born with male androgens, but these hormones usually go on overdrive around one's late 30's or sometime in one's 40's. Androgenetic alopecia is a genetic trait which is passed down to both male and female children - which means both men and women may inherit it, but it's possible that only males will experience its effects. If your father and/or grandfather experienced hair loss, and you happen to be a male, there is a very good chance that you will also exhibit hair loss.

Women very seldom experience alopecia precisely because the process operates on the hyperactivity of male hormones - something women have too little of. Alopecia in women is often credited to an overproduction of male hormones, and is considered treatable with hormone therapy.

Men, however, have an abundance of male hormones, and therefore they are more likely to exhibit hair loss. Androgenetic alopecia shows itself in different patterns, however: instead of a receding hairline, the most tell-tale sign of hair loss in a middle-aged man could be the growth of a "bald spot" somewhere at the top of his skull, or behind his head.

Regardless of what kind of alopecia you have, it is always best to consult a doctor before deciding on any single form of treatment. Different kinds of alopecia will require different remedies. Consulting a credible hair loss specialist will enable you to become more familiar with your options.