Diffuse Thinning Hair Loss: Symptoms, Causes and Treatments

Hair loss doesn’t follow a single pattern; it comes in many forms, from pattern baldness to a receding hairline.The most common form is diffuse thinning hair loss. It is a type of hair loss that is spread out over the entire scalp. 

There are many causes of diffuse thinning. Two of them are male pattern baldness (androgenetic alopecia) and pattern hair loss. Below we’ve detailed what diffuse thinning is and the common symptoms as well as treatment options you may realize if you have this type of hair loss.

Understanding Diffuse Thinning Hair Loss

When medical experts use the term ‘diffuse thinning’, they are referring to a type of hair loss pattern that is characterized by a decrease in hair density across the entire scalp. The hair becomes progressively thinner over time, leading to an overall reduction in hair volume.

 

There are also forms of diffuse thinning hair loss. For example, the most common one is telogen effluvium. When the hair cycle follows a normal shedding pattern, experts refer to it as hair shedding. However, shedding above the normal amount of hair expected to be shed daily is categorized as “hair loss“. 

 

Diffuse hair is a thinning of the hair that occurs almost equally over the whole scalp. Unlike male pattern baldness, it does not cause a clear receding hairline or other distinct pattern.

Causes of Diffuse Thinning

An individual can suffer from diffuse thinning for many causes because it is a multifactorial condition. The main ones are the following:

 

• Chronic Telogen Effluvium

It is a type of hair loss due to abnormal hair cycle and loss of hair in the telogen phase. It can be caused by stress and trauma as well as hormonal changes. Additionally, if hair falls out during the anagen phase of the growth cycle, this is called anagen effluvium.

 

• Hormonal Imbalances

A major role for hormones in the functioning of the body, including hair growth. If there’s a hormonal imbalance, your hair can thin out and become sparse. It may lose its former vitality.

 

• Alopecia Areata

It is an autoimmune condition. When diffuse alopecia areata occurs, your immune system attacks your hair follicles and makes them fall out. This results in bald spots on the scalp. 

 

• Medications

Some medications can cause your hair to become thin and lead to shedding as a side effect. It’s beneficial to read the leaflet before starting any medication and discuss alternative treatments with your doctor.

 

• Certain diseases

Thyroid disease, anemia, polycystic ovary syndrome, diabetes, iron deficiency and stress-related conditions are among the causes of diffuse hair thinning.

Symptoms of Diffuse Thinning Hair Loss

There are no bald spots in diffuse hair thinning as in patterned hair loss, instead there is a homogeneous decrease in hair density throughout the scalp. Here are some common signs and symptoms:

• Noticeable decrease in volume at the hairline, midscalp, and crown,
• The scalp becomes easily visible due to reduced hair density,
• Excessive hair loss, more than 50 to 100 hairs per day. Finding a large number of lost hairs on pillowcases, carpet surfaces, or in the bathroom.
• Some patients may have scalp sensitivity accompanied by itching.

Treatments of Diffuse Thinning Hair Loss

Fortunately, nowadays there are various solutions for problems like diffuse thinning hair loss that can damage a person’s self-confidence and negatively impact their appearance. Here are the most effective treatment options for diffuse thinning hair loss:

 

• Minoxidil

An effective treatment for male pattern hair loss and female pattern hair loss. FDA-approved medicines can be sold without a prescription. Between 6 and 12 months, it creates a noticeable difference in hair volume.  In fact, topical minoxidil has been shown to stop hair loss or cause mild to moderate growth in approximately 60% of women with FPHL [1].

 

• Finasteride

It is an effective medication used to treat certain male-only conditions such as male pattern baldness and prostate. It prevents the turn of testosterone into DHT. 

 

• PRP treatment

PRP therapy is used in the treatment of wrinkles, pigmentations, acne and acne scars, and skin stretch marks. There is a reduction in sagging and wrinkle marks after the application. Applying spot treatments such as peeling and laser with PRP can accelerate the treatment process and ensure permanent results.

 

• Low-level laser therapy (LLLT)

It is a non-invasive treatment using laser comb devices to stimulate cell growth and reduce inflammation on the scalp.

 

• Hair loss supplements

Some supplements can offer an effective solution for hair loss.  Here’s a brief list of supplements commonly used for hair loss:

• Biotin
• Iron
• Zinc
• Vitamin D
• Vitamin E
• Omega-3 fatty acids
• Niacin (Vitamin B3)
• Vitamin A

 

• Hair growth shampoos

There are some shampoos formulated to strengthen the hair strands and reduce hair loss, usually by cleansing the scalp and reducing inflammation.

 

• Hair transplantation

Hair transplantation for diffuse hair thinning can be challenging due to the diffuse nature of hair loss throughout the scalp. However, there are some hair transplant methods that are worth trying. 

 

• FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction)

Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE) is the process of taking healthy grafts from the hairy area called “donor area” on the scalp and transferring them to the balding “recipient area”. The number of “grafts”, which refers to a group of several hair strands and follicles, varies depending on factors such as the size of the person’s bald spots, the volume of hair fibers, etc. 

 

• Direct Hair Implantation (DHI)

With the DHI method, hair follicles are transplanted directly with the help of a special pen. In this way, there is no need to open a channel and the hair follicles are less damaged. The DHI method provides a more natural appearance than the FUE method.

Transplantation for Diffuse Thinning Hair in Turkey

In the treatment of diffuse thinning hair loss, treatment methods in Turkey have become highly advanced. You can explore the packages offered by Vantage Clinic to replace your excessively shedding hair with healthy and voluminous-looking hair.

 

While undergoing your hair transplantation treatment, you can stay in a 5-star hotel and enjoy a tour of Istanbul. You can complete your procedure within a few days of your chosen timeframe and safely return to your country.

 

Diffuse Thinning Hair Transplant Cost in Turkey

The cost of a diffuse thinning hair transplant can vary depending on several factors, including the geographic location, the clinic’s reputation, the surgeon’s expertise, and the number of grafts required. Turkey has emerged as a popular destination for hair transplants due to its renowned clinics and competitive pricing. On average, the cost of a diffuse thinning hair transplant in Turkey can range from 1,000 to 4,500 dollars. It is essential to research and choose a reputable clinic with experienced surgeons to ensure safety, quality, and satisfactory results.

 

Detailed information about the cost of Required Grafts in Turkey

1500 Grafts Hair Transplant

2000 Grafts Hair Transplant

3000 Grafts Hair Transplant

4000 Grafts Hair Transplant

5000 Grafts Hair Transplant

6000 Grafts Hair Transplant

7000 Grafts Hair Transplant

Before and After Photo of Diffuse Thinning Hair Transplant

FAQs About Diffuse Thinning Hair Loss

Ref:

De Villez R, Jacobs JP, Szpunar CA, Warner ML. Androgenetic alopecia in the female: treatment wiith 2% minoxidil solution. Arch Dermatol 1994;130:303-7.

 

Article Review By: Dr. Jyothi Shenoy V
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MBBS, MD – Obstetrics & Gynaecology, MRCOG(UK)
23 Years Experience Overall