We all face hair loss on a daily basis, and it is especially frustrating for women, but the appearance of gaps on the scalp is the ultimate nightmare. It either indicates the beginnings of baldness or may indicate alopecia, both of which are conditions that may lead to all hair loss. It is important to know the normal rate of hair loss, the difference between alopecia and hair gaps, and the causes of each. All of this and more we will discuss in the article.

What is the difference between alopecia and hair loss?

Do you find a lot of bristles in your brush after brushing or in the bathtub after taking a bath?

Hair loss may increase gradually, or suddenly, causing areas of the scalp devoid of hair to appear. These are known as hair gaps.

Some people confuse alopecia, which is also characterized by the presence of empty patches of hair on the scalp, with hair gaps, although they are two different conditions. We explain the difference between them as follows:

Hair blanks

It is the appearance of empty areas of hair, or more precisely, the hair density decreases significantly until the skin of the scalp can be clearly seen. This happens for several reasons that we will discuss in this article later.

Alopecia

It is a general term that includes many types, the most famous of which is alopecia areata, which is a disease that belongs to the category of autoimmune diseases, in which the immune system mistakenly attacks hair follicles, causing damage and hair loss.

There are different types of alopecia areata:

• Alopecia areata universalis: The patient loses all hair on his head.
• Complete alopecia areata: It is hair loss all over the body.
• Diffuse alopecia areata: It is a sudden thinning and loss of hair all over the scalp, rather than empty patches of hair, and it can be difficult to diagnose because it is very similar to other forms of hair loss.

Get to know Learn about the causes of alopecia and whether alopecia can heal on its own

The difference between alopecia and fungi

They are similar Alopecia Also with tinea capitis, as both cause bald spots on the scalp, what is the difference between them?

The difference between alopecia areata and fungi is that alopecia areata is an autoimmune disorder that causes unexpected hair loss, while fungi cause an infection known as tinea capitis, which is a fungal infection that causes itchy bald spots and dandruff on the scalp.

They can be differentiated by the shape of the bald spots. In the case of fungi, the skin in the hair-free area appears scaly and slightly red, and may be itchy, while alopecia areata spots are smooth and non-flaky, and their borders may only be red at first.

You can also read Causes of alopecia areata, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment methods

Reasons for the appearance of hairless spots on the head

Hair loss has many causes, and knowing the specific cause helps determine the appropriate treatment method.

• Hereditary hair loss: Affecting both men and women, it is also known as androgenetic alopecia, and is the most common cause of hair loss worldwide.
• the age: As we age, hair stops growing, causing gaps or a receding hairline.
• Alopecia areataAs we explained previously, it is an autoimmune disease that may occur in the head or anywhere in the body.
• Cancer treatment: Cancer patients who receive radiation therapy to areas near the head or neck or receive chemotherapy may develop hairless patches or lose all hair within a few weeks of starting treatment.
• Stress or emotional stress: The rate of hair loss may increase during stressful periods and times of stress, which is known as telogen effluvium.
• Using care products that contain chemicals: Hair dyes, straightening creams, and other straightening products contain chemicals that damage hair follicles, causing gaps in the scalp over time.
• Pulling hair hard: Styles that involve pulling the hair too tightly may over time cause it to fall out permanently, known as traction alopecia.
• Sexually transmitted infections: Some sexually transmitted diseases, if left untreated, can lead to hair loss. 
• Hyperthyroidism: People with hyperthyroidism may notice significant hair loss (full strands) when combed.
• Severe nutrient deficiencies: Some elements are particularly linked to hair health, and their deficiency may lead to significant hair loss, including biotin, zinc, iron, and proteins.

Book your consultation now at مركز الجلدية والتجميل At Al Mousa Specialist Hospital if you experience the above-mentioned reasons

Frequently asked questions

Is alopecia caused by myself?

Although alopecia areata is an autoimmune disease, studies have found a link between stress, anxiety, and depression and autoimmune diseases in general, including alopecia.

Does alopecia disappear without treatment?

There is no definitive treatment for alopecia areata, and hair may grow back on its own in mild cases in which the person has a few bald spots that appeared less than a year ago.

Is alopecia transmitted by touch?

The question often asked, “Is alopecia contagious?”

We explained to you the difference between alopecia and hair loss, and we advise you if your hair loss rate changes to consult a dermatologist immediately, especially if gaps or bald spots appear on the scalp. You should not use any non-medical products that are promoted as treating hair loss, as hair is a crown on our heads and losing it is not an easy matter.

Sources and references

Baldness (Alopecia) – hopkinsmedicine

Psychological Stress-Induced Pathogenesis of Alopecia Areata – pmc