Alopecia Explained: Types, Symptoms & Options

Hair loss can be unsettling, whether it creeps in as gradual thinning or pops up as coin-sized patches. For many Australians, the word “alopecia” raises fresh questions—what does it mean, and how is it different from everyday shedding? This guide unpacks the main types of alopecia, key symptoms, and practical options that may help support scalp and hair health. It’s written for local conditions too—from strong UV to salty swims and humid summers.

What is alopecia?

Alopecia is the medical term for hair loss. It isn’t one condition but a group of patterns and causes. Some forms are inherited, others relate to immune activity, hormones, illness, or external stressors.

We all shed 50–100 hairs a day as part of the normal cycle. Alopecia refers to more noticeable loss—thinning across the scalp or distinct patches where hair no longer grows.

Common types in Australia

Two types turn up most often:

• Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) – a gradual, patterned thinning often called male or female pattern hair loss.

• Alopecia areata (AA) – patchy loss linked to autoimmune activity.

Other types also occur, such as telogen effluvium (temporary shedding after illness or stress) and scarring alopecias.

Androgenetic alopecia

This is the most common form worldwide and affects both men and women. According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI), more than half of men show signs by age 50, and many women notice changes around menopause (source).

Symptoms

• Men often notice a receding hairline and thinning on the crown.

• Women tend to experience diffuse thinning across the top rather than complete bald spots.

• Hair may feel finer and take longer to grow.

Real life: A lot of blokes first notice a widening patch on the crown. One Brisbane dad realised something had changed when the kids joked about his “sunburnt patch” after a day at South Bank.

Causes

AGA is influenced by both genetics and hormones. The androgen dihydrotestosterone (DHT) can gradually miniaturise follicles, shortening the growth phase of the hair cycle (see this review in the Journal of Clinical Investigation via PMC: source). Family history is a strong risk factor.

How it’s assessed

Your GP or dermatologist will look at pattern, pace, and family history. They may order blood tests to rule out compounding issues (iron, thyroid) and consider dermoscopy or a pull test.

Management pathways

There isn’t a single “cure”, but a range of options can be used—often in combination.

• Laser Caps: At-home LLLT devices may help support follicle function and scalp circulation.

• Laser Combs: Useful for targeting specific thinning zones, such as temples or crown.

• Hair Serums & Conditioners: Formulated for thinning hair, these can help maintain a healthier scalp environment and reduce breakage.

• Prescription or pharmacy options: Your doctor may discuss medicines such as minoxidil (men and women) and finasteride (men). These can be effective for many, but they’re not suitable for everyone. Talk to your GP about risks and side effects.

• Surgical options: Hair transplantation may be considered in selected cases.

Tip for Aussie summers: UV, heat and saltwater can leave fibres dry and fragile. A hat, SPF on exposed scalp, and a gentle, hydrating wash routine after beach days can help.

Alopecia areata

Unlike gradual thinning, AA often appears suddenly as round or oval patches. In some people, hair regrows; in others it may recur or spread.

Symptoms

• Coin-sized bald patches with smooth skin where hair has fallen.

• Tingling or mild itch before shedding in some cases.

• Nail changes (pitting or ridges) can occur.

Real life: We often hear from younger Australians who find a small patch while studying. A Sydney student spotted hers right before exams—stress levels up, confidence down—until a GP confirmed it was AA and mapped out next steps.

Why it happens

AA is linked to the immune system mistakenly targeting hair follicles. Genetics and stress may contribute to triggering episodes (summary from The Kingsley Clinic: source).

Diagnosis

A dermatologist usually makes the call based on scalp examination, history, and sometimes a biopsy. They may also check nails and order blood tests to rule out other causes (e.g., thyroid, iron deficiency) or co-existing conditions.

Management options

There’s no single best treatment for every person, but the aim is to calm inflammation and encourage regrowth.

• Topical corticosteroids for small patches.

• Steroid injections into stubborn areas, typically at intervals.

• Topical immunotherapy in more extensive cases, to redirect immune activity.

• Supportive care: camouflage fibres, tinted powders, wigs/scarves, and brow or lash solutions can help day to day.

Hair may regrow on its own, but early review helps you understand options and track progress.

Other types you may hear about

• Telogen effluvium (TE): Temporary shedding after illness, childbirth, major stress, or medication changes. Dermatology Advisor notes seasonality has been reported, with some people noticing more shedding in warmer months (source).

• Traction alopecia: From chronic pulling (tight ponytails, braids, extensions, very tight buns). Caught early, hair can often recover; long-term tension can be permanent.

• Cicatricial (scarring) alopecias: Inflammatory conditions that damage follicles and can cause permanent loss. These require specialist care.

• Anagen effluvium: Sudden loss during the growth phase, commonly with chemotherapy; regrowth often begins after treatment ends.

When to see a specialist

Book your GP promptly if you notice sudden shedding, distinct patches, or progressive thinning. Early diagnosis clarifies the type of alopecia and guides next steps. In Australia, your GP can refer you to a dermatologist for targeted assessment and treatment.

Supporting scalp & hair health day to day

Even when alopecia is diagnosed, everyday care can help create a healthier scalp environment.

Lifestyle & nutrition

• Balanced diet: Low iron, zinc or vitamin D may contribute to shedding; aim for nutrient-rich meals and discuss testing with your GP if concerned.

• Stress management: Ongoing stress can worsen some types of loss. Short, regular exercise and good sleep hygiene make a real difference.

• Sun protection: Our harsh UV can weaken fibres and expose the scalp—wear a hat outdoors and consider SPF for visible scalp.

• Gentle styling: Skip frequent high-heat tools, and avoid tight styles that strain follicles.

Everyday example: Many women tell us their hair feels drier and more fragile after months of UV and saltwater. Others notice thinning around the temples after years of tight gym ponytails.

Non-invasive options from Hairmax AU

Some Australians look for at-home support they can use alongside medical advice. Options available via the official Australian distributor include:

• Laser Caps: Wearable LLLT devices that cover the full scalp. They may help support scalp circulation and deliver consistent energy across thinning zones.

• Laser Combs: Handy for targeting specific areas, such as temples or crown.

• Hair Serums & Conditioners: Lightweight formulas designed to support a balanced scalp environment and reduce breakage.

• Hair Growth Supplements (coming soon): Nutritional support featuring biotin, zinc, iron and vitamin D—key nutrients for hair structure.

All Hairmax devices purchased through the Australian distributor include local warranty and Australia-wide shipping, so you can order with confidence.

Compliance note: Hairmax devices and haircare are non-invasive and drug-free. They do not “cure” hair loss, but they may help support scalp health and hair wellness when used as directed.

Quick comparison: AGA vs AA

Key takeaways

• “Alopecia” is an umbrella term covering several patterns of hair loss.

• AGA is the most common type; AA presents with sudden patches.

• A GP or dermatologist can confirm the diagnosis and guide treatment.

• Non-invasive options—like laser caps, laser combs, serums and nutrient support—may be used alongside medical advice to support scalp health.

Curious which device might suit your routine? Explore our caps and combs or chat with our team for guidance on fit, schedules and local warranty.

Sources & further reading

• Prevalence and overview (NCBI): Androgenetic Alopecia

• Mechanisms & hormones (PMC): DHT and follicle miniaturisation

• Alopecia areata overview (The Kingsley Clinic): Symptoms & treatments

• Types of alopecia (Dermatology Advisor): Clinical summaries

FAQ

Is alopecia the same as “going bald”?
Not always. Some types, like telogen effluvium, are temporary. Others, like AA, can regrow. Pattern hair loss tends to be long-term but can be managed.

How long until I see changes with at-home routines?
Hair grows slowly—most people assess changes over 3–6 months. Consistency matters.

Can tight hairstyles really cause hair loss?
Yes. Long-term tension can damage follicles (traction alopecia). Loosen styles and vary placement.

Do I need blood tests?
Your GP may check for low iron, thyroid issues and vitamin D if your history suggests it.