Hair loss affects millions of people and often leads to more than just a cosmetic concern—it can impact self-esteem, self-image, and confidence. At La Mesa Medical Hair Restoration, we believe that understanding the science and causes of hair loss is the first step toward effective, long-term treatment.
Hair loss affects both men and women and can begin as early as the teenage years. Studies show:
40% of men will experience visible hair loss by age 35
84% of men report being mentally preoccupied by their hair loss
78% feel self-conscious about their appearance
**51% believe hair loss makes them less attractive
20 million American women suffer from some form of thinning hair
The average person is born with 100,000 to 150,000 hair follicles on their scalp. These follicles go through a natural growth cycle consisting of three phases:
Anagen (Growth Phase) – Lasts 2–5 years
Catagen (Transition Phase) – Lasts 2–3 weeks
Telogen (Resting & Shedding Phase) – Lasts 2–4 months
It’s normal to shed between 50–150 hairs per day. However, problems arise when the rate of shedding exceeds the rate of regrowth, or when new hair grows in thinner and shorter—a process known as miniaturization.
The most common form of hair loss is androgenic alopecia (also called male or female pattern baldness), caused by a combination of genetics and hormones.
Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) is a byproduct of testosterone that shrinks hair follicles over time. This hormonal sensitivity is genetic, and it affects follicles located primarily on the crown and frontal scalp in men, and diffusely across the scalp in women.
Begins with a receding hairline at the temples (forming an “M” shape)
Followed by thinning at the crown
Eventually, the two areas connect, forming a U-shaped or horseshoe pattern
Hair becomes shorter, finer, and lighter until the scalp becomes visible
Typically presents as diffuse thinning across the entire scalp
Most noticeable around the part line or crown
Often worsens after menopause due to hormonal shifts
Rarely leads to full baldness, but density can be significantly reduced
While pattern baldness is the most common, other conditions may contribute to or accelerate hair thinning:
An autoimmune disorder that causes sudden, patchy hair loss in circular areas. Severe forms include:
Alopecia Totalis: Complete scalp hair loss
Alopecia Universalis: Complete loss of all body hair
Triggered by physical or emotional stress, illness, major surgery, or hormonal shifts. Hair loss is usually temporary and self-resolving within 3–6 months.
Caused by constant tension or pulling on the hair, such as tight braids, ponytails, or weaves. This can lead to permanent damage if not addressed early.
Certain prescriptions—including blood pressure meds, antidepressants, and chemotherapy—can lead to shedding. Thyroid issues, PCOS, and menopause can also disrupt hair growth cycles.
While genetics can’t be changed, early intervention can slow or even reverse hair loss in many cases. At La Mesa Medical Hair Restoration, we offer both non-surgical and surgical solutions tailored to each patient, including:
FUE & FUT Hair Transplants
ARTAS Robotic Transplants
Alma TED (needle-free hair restoration)
PRP Therapy
Prescription medications (finasteride, minoxidil)
Whether you’re just starting to notice shedding or have tried treatments without success, our team is here to help. Dr. Brandon Ross provides personalized consultations and treatment plans based on real science, real results, and your real goals.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
Serving La Mesa, San Diego, El Cajon, Santee & surrounding areas.
© 2025 La Mesa Medical Hair Restoration. All Rights Reserved. | Powered by iZone ONE+