Hair Loss (Alopecia) - Northside Dermatology Melbourne
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Hair loss Dermatologist

Hair Loss (Alopecia). Everything you need to know

Evidence-Based Hair Loss Care

Hair loss, or alopecia, is more than just a cosmetic concern, it is a complex medical symptom that often signals an underlying change in your health. Because the causes of thinning and shedding can range from genetic predisposition and hormonal shifts to autoimmune responses and nutritional deficiencies, a professional clinical diagnosis is the first step toward effective regrowth.

At Northside Dermatology, our consulting dermatologists specialise in evidence-based hair restoration. We move beyond “quick-fix” solutions to identify the specific drivers of your hair loss, whether you are experiencing Male or Female Pattern Hair Loss (Androgenetic Alopecia), sudden shedding from Telogen Effluvium, or more complex conditions like Alopecia Areata and Scarring Alopecia. By combining medical expertise with tailored treatment plans, we help patients manage active loss and protect long-term follicle health.

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Hair Loss
Treatments

Understanding Hair Loss

Understanding Hair Loss

Hair loss, medically termed alopecia, is a symptom pointing to an underlying cause, not a condition in itself. Identifying the specific driver is the essential first step toward effective treatment.

 

Primary Causes of Hair Loss

A dermatologist is trained to distinguish between various clinical signs that define these common conditions:

  • Female & Male Pattern Hair Loss (AGA): Driven by genetic sensitivity to androgens; progressive thinning that is highly treatable if caught early.

  • Telogen Effluvium (TE): Reactive diffuse shedding triggered 2–4 months after physical/emotional stress, illness, or nutritional deficiency.

  • Alopecia Areata & Totalis: An autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks follicles, causing patchy or complete scalp hair loss.

  • Scarring Alopecia: Inflammatory conditions that can permanently destroy follicles; early intervention is critical to prevent irreversible loss.

  • Overlapping Causes: It is common for conditions like AGA and telogen effluvium to co-exist, requiring a mixed treatment strategy.

 

Secondary & Systemic Drivers

  • Inflammatory Scalp Conditions: Psoriasis, seborrhoeic dermatitis, and folliculitis can disrupt follicle function.

  • Systemic Diseases: Thyroid disorders, PCOS, lupus, and iron deficiency anaemia often manifest as hair loss.

  • Nutritional Deficiencies: Inadequate levels of iron, zinc, vitamin D, or protein can impair healthy growth

 

 

The Diagnostic Pathway

Effective management requires a tailored approach rather than a “one-size-fits-all” solution:

    1. Comprehensive Consultation: A detailed history of onset, pattern, and lifestyle.

    2. Clinical Examination: Assessment of scalp health and hair density, often using dermoscopy.

    3. Targeted Investigations: Blood tests or scalp biopsies to rule out systemic causes.

    4. Personalised Management Plan: A strategy combining topical, oral, or procedural interventions.

Evidence-Based Treatment Options

Effective hair restoration requires a multi-faceted approach. Depending on your specific diagnosis, your dermatologist may recommend one or a combination of the following clinical pathways:

Topical Therapies
High-potency, prescription-only formulations (such as compounded Minoxidil or Finasteride) tailored to your scalp sensitivity.


Oral Medications
For conditions like Androgenetic Alopecia, oral anti-androgens or growth stimulants can be highly effective in reversing follicle miniaturisation.
Anti-Inflammatory Treatments
For autoimmune or scarring conditions, your specialist may prescribe corticosteroids or immunomodulators to halt active damage.
Intralesional Injections
Targeted steroid injections directly into the scalp to treat patchy Alopecia Areata.
PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma):
A concentrated growth-factor therapy derived from your own blood, designed to "jump-start" dormant follicles and increase hair shaft diameter.
Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT)
Medical-grade light energy used to improve cellular metabolism within the hair bulb.
Diagnostic Monitoring
We don't just treat; we track. Using Trichoscopy (digital scalp imaging), our dermatologists can monitor your hair density and follicle health at a microscopic level, allowing us to adjust your treatment plan based on real-time data.
Hair loss and Alopecia Treatments

Why Consult a Dermatologist?

 

Dermatologists are the medical specialists for skin, hair, and nails. Seeking specialist care at Northside Dermatology ensures:

  • Specialist-Level Knowledge: Distinguishing between similar-looking conditions.

  • Early Intervention: Prompt diagnosis provides the best window for hair recovery.

  • Holistic Monitoring: Ongoing care to adjust treatments and support long-term scalp health.

 

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Frequently asked questions

Is it normal to lose hair every day?

Yes, it is normal to shed between 50 to 100 hairs per day as part of the natural hair growth cycle. However, if you notice excessive shedding, thinning patches, or a widening part line, it may indicate a clinical condition like Telogen Effluvium or Pattern Hair Loss.

Can a dermatologist actually help with hair regrowth?

Absolutely. As medical specialists for skin, hair, and nails, dermatologists use clinical tools to diagnose the specific cause of your loss. Whether the trigger is hormonal, autoimmune, or nutritional, a specialist can provide evidence-based treatments, such as prescription topicals, oral medications, or clinical therapies, that are more effective than over-the-counter “quick fixes.”

What is the difference between shedding and thinning?

Shedding (Telogen Effluvium): Usually involves hair falling out from the root in large amounts, often triggered by stress, illness, or rapid weight loss.

Thinning (Androgenetic Alopecia): A gradual process where individual hair follicles shrink over time, making the hair appear less dense. Both require different treatment approaches, which is why a professional diagnosis is essential.

 

Can stress cause permanent hair loss?

 Most stress-induced hair loss (Telogen Effluvium) is temporary, and hair typically regrows once the stressor is managed. However, intense physical or emotional stress can sometimes “unmask” underlying genetic thinning. If your hair does not begin to thicken within six months of a stressful event, you should book a consultation for a scalp evaluation.

 

Are hair loss treatments safe for women?

 Yes, but they must be carefully managed. Some treatments used for men are not suitable for women, especially those of childbearing age. Our dermatologists provide tailored plans that consider your hormonal health and lifestyle to ensure both safety and efficacy.

 

How long does it take to see results from treatment?

Hair grows slowly, typically only 1cm per month. Because of the hair growth cycle, most patients will need to remain on a consistent treatment plan for 3 to 6 months before noticing a visible reduction in shedding or an increase in density.

Dr Wenyuan Liu, Dermatologist

Start with the Right Conversation

If you are concerned about hair loss, seeking an expert opinion early is the most important step. To explore suitable treatment options, contact Northside Dermatology on 03 8582 8688 to arrange an appointment with a dermatologist.

 

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Start Your Hair Restoration Journey

We understand the impact hair loss can have on your confidence. Consulting dermatologists are here to help you navigate the complexities of alopecia with clinical expertise and tailored restoration strategies. Let’s create a plan that works for you.

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Two Melbourne Locations

Northside Dermatology operates from modern facilities in Fitzroy North and Reservoir. Consulting dermatologists and doctors offer a range of medical and aesthetic skin treatments, supported by a team of cosmetic nurses and dermal therapists.

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