Hair loss, scientifically known as alopecia, refers to the partial or complete loss of hair from areas of the body where it normally grows, particularly the scalp. It is a common condition that affects both men and women of different ages and can have various underlying causes.
The severity of hair loss can range from moderate thinning to substantial baldness, and it can happen gradually or suddenly. The three phases that make up the hair development cycle are anagen (the growing phase), catagen (the transition phase), and telogen (the resting phase). Normal conditions result in continual and balanced transitions through these phases by hair follicles, which promotes healthy hair growth. But interruptions to this cycle can result in baldness.
The symptoms of hair loss depend on the underlying cause and may include: