Patchy Hair Loss
Patchy hair loss, sometimes referred to as "bald spots" is an unusual condition which affects both men and women at all ages. It is usually characterised by the loss of small patches of hair from the face, head or elsewhere. Needless to say this can be very distressing and people who go through patchy hair loss generally wear hats or try to comb their hair over so the patches are less visible.
Unlike patterned baldness, patchy hair loss does is not predictable based on genetics or the environment, and often the location of the hair loss can change over time. So while you may currently have a bald patch in one location, in months to come that hair may regrow and a different patch may become bald. This makes it difficult to formulate a permanent "cover up" plan.
There are numerous potential causes of patchy hair loss however at present, there is no definitive cure. The good news is that it normally clears up over a period of 6 months to a year. People at risk of patchy hair loss are primarily those who have had an illness, especially a serious illness. Ringworm (a fungal infection of the skin similar to tinea) can also cause patchy hair loss. If you suspect you have a fungal infection then you must see a doctor to be diagnosed before it spreads elsewhere on your body. It can also spread to other people. Fungal infections like ringworm can be caught from people or animals like dogs or cats.
Ringworm is treatable with anti-fungal cream, so if you suspect ringworm as the cause of your patchy hair loss, consult your physician immediately. If the bald patches are not related to infection, maintaining a healthy diet and exercise regime will give you the best chance for rapid regrowth of the lost hair.
