Hair loss is distressing, whether it is slow thinning or sudden circular bald patches. To understand the cause and find appropriate treatment, you should know what kind of doctor to consult. In this in-depth guide, we consider the types of doctors who specialise in hair loss, their expertise, and what should be expected from each.

1. Dermatologist

Dermatologists are the doctors who treat any problem related to the skin, hair, or nails. They are the most commonly visited doctors who examine and offer treatment for hair loss.

Conditions Treated: Dermatologists diagnose and provide treatment for various causes of hair loss, like androgenetic alopecia (male pattern and female pattern baldness), alopecia areata (autoimmune-caused loss of hair), telogen effluvium (stress-caused hair fall) and many other disorders of the scalp.

Diagnostic Approach: Dermatologists combine medical history with physical examination and occasionally scalp biopsies to form a diagnosis of the type and cause of hair loss. They could also run blood tests to identify whether there might be an underlying medical condition causing the hair loss.

Treatment Options: Dermatologists have a few specific treatments for several possible diagnoses, which include topical medications such as minoxidil, oral medications like finasteride for the treatment of male pattern hair loss, steroid injections in cases of alopecia areata, light therapy, and sometimes hair transplantation.

When to See a Dermatologist: In case of increased fallen hair, visible thinning, the appearance of bald patches, or irritation on the scalp; an appointment with a dermatologist would be advisable.

2. Trichologist

Trichologists deal with hair and scalp disorders, but they are not medical doctors. The majority of them are trained either in cosmetology or related areas, and they treat the non-medical causes that lead to hair loss.

Conditions Treated: Trichologists can diagnose common hair loss conditions but focus on lifestyle factors, nutrition, and scalp health rather than medical treatments.

Diagnostic Approach: Trichologists examine hair and scalp by vision, and sometimes by trichoscopy—that is, under the microscope. Most trichologists also discuss diet, stress levels, and hair care routines.

Treatments Provided: Dietary changes are commonly recommended by trichologists, along with supplements, scalp treatments, and particular hair care regimens. They may refer patients to dermatologists for medical evaluation and treatment if needed.

When to See a Trichologist: If you like holistic methods for hair loss or feel your regular hair care routine is causing your hair problems, then you may want to consider visiting a trichologist.

3. Endocrinologist

These physicians receive special training in the field of hormones and endocrine disorders, some of which can contribute to hair loss.

Conditions Treated: Endocrinologists assess and treat hormonal conditions that may be causing hair loss. These include thyroid disorders, polycystic ovarian syndrome, adrenal gland disorders, and other miscellaneous hormonal and endocrine disorders.

Diagnostic Approach: To know the root cause of the hormonal imbalance, an endocrinologist will run a detailed hormonal profile test like blood tests. They often collaborate with dermatologists to find out the overall cause of hair loss in a patient.

Treatment Options: The treatment is aimed at managing the underlying hormonal disorder. For example, replacement with thyroid hormone in cases of hypothyroidism or drugs to regularize insulin and androgen levels in PCOS.

When to Consult an Endocrinologist: If you are experiencing symptoms of hormonal imbalance, like unexplained weight change, irregular periods, or hair loss associated with fatigue, you should seek the help of an endocrinologist.

4. Plastic Surgeon (Hair Restoration Surgeon)

Plastic surgeons specializing in hair restoration focus on surgical techniques to treat hair loss, more specifically; Hair Transplantation.

Conditions treated: Hair restoration surgeons treat male and female pattern baldness and many types of hair loss that are not amenable to medical therapy.

Diagnostic approach: They assess the extent and pattern of hair loss and availability of donor hair, as well as the patient's expectations about the outcome of surgery.

Treatment Options: Hair transplant includes the technique of taking hairs from the donor area and placing them in the bald areas.

When to See a Hair Restoration Surgeon: You should visit a Hair restoration surgeon in case you have advanced hair loss or you want a surgical solution for your hair loss after knowing other options from your dermatologist.

5. Primary Care Physician (PCP)

Primary care physicians present an initial evaluation and management of various health concerns, including hair loss.

Conditions Treated: Some common causes of hair loss can be diagnosed and treated with basic treatment initiated by a PCP. They would refer to specialists for further evaluation if needed.

Diagnostic Approach: A detailed medical history and physical examination are taken by PCPs. Basic blood tests may be ordered and may refer to dermatologists or other specialists for detailed evaluation.

Treatment Options: Depending on the cause identified, a PCP will prescribe over-the-counter treatment, simple lifestyle changes, or refer patients to consultants for bigger care.

When To See a PCP: If your hair loss is not very serious, or if you want to start with a general check, then finding an appointment with a primary care physician is quite justified.

Conclusion

The right doctor to treat hair loss would depend on the type, severity, and possible underlying causes of your condition. Proactive measures and early seeking of medical advice increase the chance of a good outcome significantly in hair loss management. In any case, such consideration should be made for hair loss treatment consultation with physicians or clinics.