How to Measure Hair Loss: 7 Diagnostic Tests

Hair loss, which is a common problem, refers to partial or complete loss of hair from the scalp. It affects both men and women, young and old. Usually, factors such as genetics, hormonal changes, medical conditions, and stress contribute to hair loss. These issues need to be addressed, but instead of jumping to conclusions, you should do some tests that will help you diagnose the cause of hair loss. Diagnosing hair loss involves a variety of methods. From physical examination to blood tests, there are many ways to measure hair loss.

What causes hair loss?

You don’t need to worry if you lose 50 to 100 strands of hair a day because our bodies grow new hair. As this happens, old hairs fall out, and this shedding isn’t a sign of hair loss, according to the American Academy of Dermatology Association. However, if you notice significantly more hair loss, such as strands of hair falling out or bald patches, it could indicate a problem, says cosmetologist Dr. Avantika Srivastava.

Here are some of the causes of hair loss:

1. Genetics

If there is a family history of hair loss, you are likely to experience it too. This condition is characterized by a gradual thinning of the hair, usually starting at the crown and temples. Genetics influence the sensitivity of hair follicles to androgens, which can shrink the follicles and shorten the hair growth cycle.

2. Hormonal changes

Pregnancy, menopause, or conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can lead to changes in hormone levels. For example, during pregnancy, high estrogen levels prolong the hair growth phase, while postpartum hormonal changes can trigger hair loss. Menopause and PCOS often lead to imbalances in androgens and other hormones, contributing to thinning hair and hair loss, the expert says.

3. Medical conditions

Thyroid disorders can cause disruptions in the hair growth cycle. Autoimmune diseases such as alopecia areata cause the immune system to attack hair follicles, leading to patchy hair loss. Scalp infections, including fungal infections, can damage hair follicles and prevent hair growth.

4. Nutritional deficiencies

There is a reason why a balanced diet is so important for overall health. Lack of essential nutrients, including iron, protein, and vitamins, can lead to many health problems, including hair loss.

5. Stress

Both physical and emotional stress can impact the health of your hair. Stress can trigger telogen effluvium, a condition in which hair enters the shedding phase prematurely. This can happen after traumatic events, major surgery, or serious illnesses. Emotional stress, such as anxiety and depression, also disrupts hormonal balance and affects hair growth.

6. Medicines

Some medications for conditions like acne, depression, and high blood pressure can cause hair loss as a side effect. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, commonly prescribed antidepressants, can lead to mild to intolerable hair loss, according to a 2022 review published in Psychiatry Research.

What are the methods to measure hair loss?

Here are some ways to diagnose hair loss:

1. Medical history

Sharing your medical history with a doctor is essential when examining hair loss. It helps determine if factors such as genetics, hormonal imbalances, nutritional deficiencies, stress, or medical conditions are contributing to hair loss. Understanding a person’s medical background ensures an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment plans. You should disclose information such as postpartum hair loss or chronic drinking and smoking habits that may have led to hair loss.

2. Scalp examination

A scalp exam is exactly what it sounds like. It involves visually inspecting the scalp to assess the extent and pattern of hair loss. The doctor will look for signs of redness, bumps, flaking, scaling, oiliness, or other abnormalities in the hair follicles. This exam helps diagnose conditions such as alopecia, infections, or skin diseases.

3. Tensile test

Your doctor will gently pull a small section of your hair to see how many strands are coming out. By gently pulling a small section of hair, your dermatologist can assess the number of hairs that come out easily, indicating the severity and type of hair loss, such as telogen effluvium or anagen effluvium, says Dr. Srivastava. This test helps diagnose hair disorders and guide appropriate treatment strategies.

4. Scalp biopsy

A scalp biopsy is a diagnostic procedure in which a small piece of skin from the scalp is surgically removed using a punch biopsy or any other instrument and sent for examination in a diagnostic laboratory. This test is essential to accurately diagnose anything that is happening under the scalp and is not visible macroscopically on the surface.

5. Blood tests

Here are some of the most common blood tests used to diagnose hair loss:

• Complete blood count (CBC): To check general health and detect disorders such as anemia.
• Thyroid function tests: To identify thyroid imbalances (TSH, T3, T4 levels).
• Vitamin D levels: To check for any deficiencies that compromise the health of the hair.
• Zinc and copper levels: Trace elements essential for hair growth.
• Folic acid and vitamin B12: For the proper functioning and growth of cells.
• Autoimmune Panel: To detect autoimmune diseases such as lupus.
• Liver function tests: Evaluates liver health by measuring levels of various substances produced by the liver. The organ metabolizes hormones such as testosterone and estrogen, which can impact hair growth. Imbalances in these hormones can lead to hair loss conditions such as androgenetic alopecia.
• Homocysteine ​​test: It measures the level of homocysteine, an amino acid in the blood that can be elevated due to vitamin deficiencies or genetic factors. High levels of homocysteine ​​can indicate deficiencies of vitamins B6, B12 and folate, which are essential for hair growth.

6. Hair shaft analysis

Hair samples are examined under a microscope to assess the structure of the hair shaft and check for any abnormalities or damage. This allows for a magnified view of the hair shaft and scalp, which helps diagnose various hair disorders and conditions.

7. Hair Density Measurement

Measuring hair density involves counting hairs per square centimeter of the scalp to assess thinning. By quantifying the number of hairs, this method helps diagnose hair loss conditions, monitor treatment progress, and guide effective hair restoration strategies. Hairs are counted within a defined square centimeter of the scalp surface. This count includes both terminal hair (thick, pigmented hair) and vellus hair (fine, light-colored hair), providing a comprehensive assessment of overall hair density, the expert says.

How to prevent hair loss?

To prevent hair loss, follow these tips:

• Focus on a good diet and lifestyle. Start with a balanced diet with essential nutrients such as vitamins A, C, D, E, iron, zinc and protein from foods such as green leafy vegetables, nuts, fish and eggs.
• There will always be some stress in life, but try to be less stressed.
• Take gentle care of your hair and massage your scalp regularly to improve circulation.
• If you notice any irritation or redness on your scalp, contact your doctor immediately. Being proactive can effectively prevent hair loss.

Hair loss can be due to many causes and a blood test or clinical evaluation will help to discover if there are deficiencies and hormonal imbalances.