Hair loss is a very common condition. Many people experience hair loss due to genetics, which is typical with male-patterned baldness. Others experience hair loss due to a disease known as alopecia. Whether hair loss is genetic or due to alopecia, it can cause major self-confidence issues for those who are experiencing it. At Essential Dermatology, our team will work with you to find a remedy for your hair loss so that you feel confident once again.
Hair Restoration
Before & After Photos
Before & After
Case: 1 of 2
Before & After Case 38
Male presented with age-related hair loss and noted impressive results following 6 months of therapy with oral minoxidil and oral finasteride.
*Keep in mind that each patient is unique and your results may vary.
Hair Restoration
Before & After Photos
Before & After
Case: 2 of 2
Before & After Case 40
Male with age-related hair loss after 2 years of treatment with oral minoxidil and oral finasteride.
*Keep in mind that each patient is unique and your results may vary.
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*Keep in mind that each patient is unique and your results may vary.
What Causes Hair Loss?
Contrary to popular belief, hair loss affects both men and women. Most commonly, hair loss is caused by genetics, which results in thinning or baldness. Other people suffer from hair loss due to alopecia. While there are various forms of alopecia, most researchers say that an autoimmune disease causes it. This is when the body attacks its own cells or hair follicles, causing them to die off. This causes the loss of hair in the affected areas. Other ways that people experience hair loss are due to hormonal changes, such as during menopause or major times of stress. Diet and nutrition can also affect your hair. If you are dealing with this condition, then come see board-certified dermatologist, Dr. Krathen an experienced hair loss treatment specialist at Essential Dermatology, to get a diagnosis and treatment started.
Symptoms of Hair Loss
- Patches of hair loss
- Baldness on the scalp
- Hair loss on the body
- Major shedding
Treatments for Hair Loss
To find the right treatment option for you, Dr. Krathen will want to learn about your medical history, allergies, family history, lifestyle, and more. This way, he will be able to find the root cause of your hair loss and then make a treatment plan. Popular treatments for hair loss include topical, oral, and injected medications as well as platelet-rich plasma. Dr. Krathen will examine the severity of your hair loss and learn about your concerns to find a treatment that will be effective for you.
Nutrafol
At Essential Dermatology, we are excited to introduce Nutrafol for hair thinning and loss. This treatment uses a hair growth nutraceutical taken orally to help with hair growth for those experiencing issues maintaining hair thickness on the scalp. These supplements can be purchased in three-month supplies and can only be obtained from a dedicated medical professional—not over-the-counter. Nutrafol offers special solutions for both men and women, as well as vegan alternatives and breastfeeding-friendly options. When you visit our team at Essential Dermatology in Natick and Needham, Massachusetts, we can discuss the Nutrafol options available that are best suited for your unique situation. If you would also like to learn more about and/or purchase this treatment, please visit our website here.
Hair Loss FAQs
How can I tell if my hair shedding is normal or something more serious?
It is normal to shed some hair each day, typically around 50-100 strands. However, if you notice excessive shedding, widening parts, thinning ponytails, or visible scalp, it may indicate a more significant issue. Sudden or dramatic changes are especially worth evaluating. A dermatologist can assess whether your hair loss pattern falls within a normal range or requires treatment.
Why does hair loss sometimes happen gradually instead of all at once?
Many types of hair loss develop slowly because they are tied to the hair growth cycle. Hair follicles may gradually shrink or spend less time in the growth phase, leading to thinner strands over time. This can make the change feel subtle at first. As it progresses gradually, early evaluation may help address the issue before thinning becomes more noticeable.
Can stress really cause noticeable hair loss?
Yes, significant physical or emotional stress can trigger a type of shedding known as telogen effluvium. This condition pushes more hairs into the resting phase, causing increased shedding a few months after the stressful event. While it is often temporary, ongoing stress may prolong the issue. Identifying and managing stress can be an important part of recovery alongside medical guidance.
Does hair loss affect women differently from men?
Hair loss patterns often differ between men and women. Men commonly experience receding hairlines or bald spots, while women tend to notice overall thinning, particularly along the part line. Hormonal changes, especially during pregnancy or menopause, may also play a role in women. As these patterns vary, personalized evaluation is important for selecting the right approach.
Can diet or nutrition influence hair thinning or shedding?
Nutritional factors can impact hair health. Deficiencies in certain vitamins, minerals, or proteins may contribute to thinning or excessive shedding. Crash dieting or sudden weight loss can also disrupt the hair growth cycle. Maintaining a balanced diet supports overall hair health, and a dermatologist may recommend further evaluation if nutritional concerns are suspected.
Why does my hair feel thinner even if I am not losing large amounts daily?
Hair may appear thinner when individual strands become finer or when growth slows down. This can occur even without noticeable shedding. Over time, reduced density and strand thickness can change how full your hair looks and feels. Since these changes may be gradual, they are sometimes overlooked until they become more pronounced.
Is it possible for hair to grow back after thinning or loss?
In many cases, hair regrowth is possible, depending on the underlying cause. Some conditions affect the hair cycle temporarily, allowing follicles to recover and produce new growth. Others may require ongoing management to maintain results. Early evaluation improves the chances of preserving and restoring hair density, especially when changes are addressed promptly.
When should I see a dermatologist about hair loss concerns?
If you notice persistent thinning, patchy loss, increased shedding, or changes that affect your confidence, it may be time to seek professional care. Dr. Michael Krathen at Essential Dermatology can evaluate your scalp, review your history, and determine potential causes. A personalized approach can help address concerns effectively and support healthier hair over time.
Schedule a Consultation
Hair loss can be a hard thing to live with. Many people with this condition suffer from low self-esteem and self-confidence. To help you regain confidence, Dr. Krathen offers a variety of treatments to address this condition.
To get started on your journey to a more confident you, call our office at (508) 545-9713 or request a consultation by filling out our online form. To book an appointment, schedule your visit as a new patient using our online scheduler or as an existing patient using the Mass General Brigham Patient Gateway.
