Hair Loss Information

Hair loss can affect anyone at any age and for a variety of reasons. For those experiencing hair loss due to medical conditions, understanding the causes and available solutions is essential. At Mane Medical, we’re here to help you navigate this journey with care and support, offering custom cranial prosthetics for those who qualify.

Types of Medical-Related Hair Loss

Alopecia Areata: An autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks hair follicles, resulting in sudden hair loss in patches on the scalp, face, and body.
Chemotherapy-Induced Hair Loss: Many cancer treatments, including chemotherapy, target rapidly growing cells, which can affect hair follicles, leading to temporary hair loss.
Trichotillomania: A psychological disorder characterized by the urge to pull out one’s hair, which can lead to visible hair thinning or bald patches.
Telogen Effluvium: A condition caused by severe stress or shock to the body (such as surgery, illness, or childbirth), leading to temporary hair shedding.
Scarring Alopecias (Cicatricial Alopecia): A rare condition that leads to permanent hair loss due to inflammation damaging the hair follicles. This type is often caused by conditions like lupus or lichen planopilaris.
Hormonal Imbalances (including PCOS): Hormonal changes, often due to conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), can cause hair loss, particularly in women.

Who Qualifies for a Cranial Prosthetic?

A cranial prosthetic, or medical wig, is typically designed for individuals who experience hair loss due to medical conditions. Qualifying conditions for a cranial prosthetic include:

Cancer treatments (such as chemotherapy or radiation)
Alopecia (any form, including areata, totalis, and universalis)
Thyroid or hormonal imbalances causing significant hair loss
Scalp conditions that damage hair follicles permanently
Hair loss resulting from burns, surgeries, or physical trauma

To confirm eligibility, consult with your healthcare provider or a cranial prosthetic specialist who can guide you through the process and help with any insurance questions if applicable.

How to Cope with Hair Loss

Hair loss can be a difficult experience, impacting self-esteem and emotional well-being. Here are some strategies that may help:

Explore Support Groups: Joining a support group, either locally or online, can offer a sense of community and shared understanding.
Consider Professional Counseling: Speaking with a therapist can help process the emotional side of hair loss and build coping strategies.
Self-Care and Mindfulness: Engage in self-care practices that make you feel good, whether that’s skincare, meditation, or regular exercise.
Experiment with Accessories: Try scarves, hats, or headwraps to find styles that make you feel comfortable and stylish.
Embrace Cranial Prosthetics: Cranial prosthetics provide a natural look and feel, offering a sense of normalcy and confidence for those who choose to wear them.

Check Out Some of Our Recommended Support Groups!

Most Common Causes of Hair Loss in Men, Women, and Children

Hair loss can vary widely depending on age, gender, and individual health conditions. Here’s a look at some of the most common causes:

Hair Loss in Men

Androgenetic Alopecia (Male Pattern Baldness): A hereditary condition leading to hair thinning, often along the hairline and crown.
Alopecia Areata: An autoimmune disorder that can cause patchy hair loss on the scalp and other areas.
Hormonal Imbalances: Conditions like low testosterone or thyroid disorders can lead to hair thinning.
Stress & Lifestyle Factors: Chronic stress, poor nutrition, and smoking can contribute to hair shedding in men.

Hair Loss in Women

Androgenetic Alopecia (Female Pattern Baldness): Hair thinning typically affects the crown and is common in women over 40.
Hormonal Changes: Pregnancy, menopause, and hormonal imbalances like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can cause significant hair loss.
Thyroid Disorders: Both hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism can impact hair health.
Autoimmune Conditions: Conditions like lupus or alopecia areata may lead to hair loss across the scalp or body.
Stress & Nutritional Deficiencies: High stress and low levels of nutrients (like iron or biotin) can trigger temporary hair loss.

Hair Loss in Children

Alopecia Areata: An autoimmune disorder that affects children, often leading to sudden patchy hair loss.
Tinea Capitis (Scalp Ringworm): A contagious fungal infection that causes round patches of hair loss on the scalp.
Trichotillomania: A behavioral disorder where children pull out their hair, often due to stress or anxiety.
Nutritional Deficiencies: Lack of essential nutrients, like zinc or vitamin D, can impact hair health.
Genetic Conditions: Rare conditions like ectodermal dysplasias can cause abnormal hair growth or hair loss.

Discover Support with Cranial Prosthetics

If you or a loved one is experiencing medical-related hair loss, we’re here to help you feel comfortable, supported, and beautiful. At Mane Medical, we offer personalized consultations to discuss your needs and design a custom cranial prosthetic that restores your confidence and fits your lifestyle.