A healthy person loses 50–100 hairs daily, but when shedding becomes noticeable and density drops, it warrants medical attention. Hair loss affects half of men before 40 and a third of women at some point. The ClinicsJo Editorial Team reviews causes and modern treatments.
The Normal Hair Growth Cycle
Each hair goes through three phases:
- Anagen (growth): 2–6 years, 85–90% of hair.
- Catagen (transition): 2–3 weeks, 1–2%.
- Telogen (resting): 2–3 months, 10–15%; hair sheds at the end.
Types of Hair Loss
1. Androgenetic Alopecia (Pattern Baldness)
The most common, affecting 50% of men by age 50 and 40% of women after menopause. Hair follicles are sensitive to DHT (a testosterone derivative). Pattern differs by sex:
- Men: receding hairline + crown thinning.
- Women: diffuse thinning along the part without frontal recession.
2. Telogen Effluvium
Temporary shedding after physical or psychological stress: childbirth, surgery, severe fever, mental shock, rapid weight loss, iron deficiency. Starts 2–3 months after the trigger and lasts 3–6 months. Usually reversible.
3. Alopecia Areata
An autoimmune disease attacking hair follicles, causing round bald patches. May affect scalp or beard. Ranges from a single patch to total body hair loss.
4. Traction Alopecia
From persistently tight hairstyles (ponytails, braids, extensions). Begins at the hairline edges.
5. Cicatricial (Scarring) Alopecia
Skin diseases that permanently destroy follicles (lupus, lichen planopilaris). Urgent treatment needed.
Medical Causes of Hair Loss
- Iron deficiency (anemia) — most common in women.
- Vitamin D and B12 deficiency.
- Hypo- or hyperthyroidism.
- PCOS.
- Medications (chemo, blood thinners, beta-blockers, some antidepressants).
- Autoimmune disease.
Diagnosis
- Clinical exam + hair pull test.
- Scalp dermoscopy (Trichoscope).
- Comprehensive blood work: iron, ferritin, vitamin D, B12, thyroid, androgens in women.
- Occasionally a scalp biopsy.
Medical Treatments
1. Minoxidil
2% or 5% solution applied to the scalp twice daily. Stimulates regrowth. Results after 3–6 months. Continuous use needed; stopping reverses gains.
2. Finasteride
An oral pill for men only (1 mg daily). Inhibits conversion of testosterone to DHT. Very effective but may cause sexual side effects in a small minority.
3. Dutasteride
Stronger than finasteride, used in severe cases.
4. Spironolactone (for women)
Reduces androgen effect on hair.
5. Vitamin and Mineral Supplements
When deficiencies are confirmed by labs: iron, zinc, biotin, vitamin D.
In-Office Treatments
1. PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma)
Blood drawn, plasma separated, injected into the scalp. 4–6 sessions a month apart, then maintenance every 6 months. Stimulates regrowth — excellent results in 70–80% of patients.
2. Mesotherapy
Injections of vitamins and minerals into the scalp. Complements other treatments.
3. Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT)
Home or in-office devices stimulate follicles.
4. Hair Transplant (FUE, DHI)
The definitive solution for advanced baldness:
- FUE: individual follicles harvested and implanted.
- DHI: direct implantation with a Choi pen, more precise.
- Density of 30–50 follicles per cm².
- Final results after 8–12 months.
Medical tip: Hair loss requires accurate diagnosis before treatment. Treating male-pattern baldness is completely different from treating iron-deficiency shedding. Don't use products based on social media ads.
Hair Transplant Costs in Jordan
- FUE (2,000–3,000 grafts): JOD 1,200–2,500.
- DHI (newer technique): JOD 2,000–3,500.
- Single PRP session: JOD 100–200.
- Mesotherapy session: JOD 50–120.
Tips to Maintain Your Hair
- Balanced diet rich in protein and iron.
- Gentle washing with sulfate-free shampoo.
- Avoid high heat (flat iron, blow dryer).
- Reduce tight hairstyles.
- Daily scalp massage improves circulation.
- Reduce stress with exercise and meditation.
- Sleep 7–8 hours.
- Avoid frequent dyeing.
For accurate diagnosis and the right treatment plan, book an appointment with a trichology-trained dermatologist on ClinicsJo.
