Hair loss is one of the most common and distressing concerns we see at UnionDerm, affecting both men and women at different stages of life. While some shedding is normal, noticeable thinning or patchy hair loss can impact not only appearance but also confidence and overall well-being. Whether you’re experiencing gradual thinning, a receding hairline, or sudden shedding, UnionDerm offers advanced, personalized solutions that target the underlying causes of hair loss and help restore healthier, fuller hair.
What is Hair Loss?
Hair loss, or alopecia, refers to the partial or complete loss of hair from the scalp or other areas of the body where it normally grows. Hair loss can range from mild thinning to complete baldness, and the effectiveness of treatments may vary depending on the severity. It can develop gradually over years or appear suddenly, depending on the cause.
The causes of hair loss are complex and multifactorial, often influenced by genetics, hormones, immune response, medical conditions, underlying disease, medications, stress, and even hairstyling practices. Because of this, identifying the root cause is critical to developing an effective, long-term treatment strategy.
Types of Hair Loss
Hair loss can take many forms, and understanding the specific type you’re experiencing is essential for finding the most effective treatment and preventing further hair loss. Each type of hair loss has its own set of causes, symptoms, and treatment options, making a professional diagnosis crucial for achieving new hair growth and restoring confidence.
While androgenetic alopecia (pattern hair loss) is the most common form, other types include telogen effluvium (shedding triggered by stress, illness, or hormonal changes), alopecia areata (an autoimmune condition that causes patchy loss), and scarring alopecia. Some conditions specifically affect the hair shaft, leading to changes in the thickness or texture of the hair. Hair loss can occur on different parts of the head, such as the crown or hairline, and certain treatments aim to increase the number or thickness of hairs.
Other less common types include hair loss related to skin cancer (such as basal cell carcinoma or squamous cell carcinoma), autoimmune diseases like lupus or thyroid disease, and hair loss induced by certain medical treatments or medications.
What Causes Hair Loss?
Hair falls can result from a variety of causes, including those listed below:
Some of the most common contributors include:
- Genetics and family history (androgenetic alopecia)
- Hormonal changes (thyroid disease, pregnancy, menopause, or PCOS)
- Stress, illness, or major life events (telogen effluvium)
- Autoimmune activity (alopecia areata)
- Nutritional deficiencies (iron, vitamin D, biotin, zinc)
- Medications such as chemotherapy or certain blood pressure drugs
- Side effects of medical treatment
- Underlying disease
- Traction from tight hairstyles or chemical treatments
- Scalp irritation from harsh products or dermatological conditions
- Scalp conditions (seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis, fungal infections)
Because hair loss can have multiple overlapping causes, professional evaluation is essential for diagnosis and treatment.
Hair Loss and Emotional Health
Hair plays a significant role in identity and self-image. For many patients, hair loss is more than just a cosmetic concern; it deeply affects self-esteem, social interactions, and overall quality of life.
At UnionDerm, we recognize the emotional impact of hair loss and provide compassionate care alongside advanced medical solutions.
Why Choose UnionDerm for Hair Loss Treatments?
UnionDerm is a leader in the diagnosis and treatment of hair loss, combining medical expertise with groundbreaking technology and research. Our board-certified dermatologists specialize in identifying the underlying causes of alopecia and creating tailored treatment plans that align with each patient’s specific type of hair loss and long-term goals. We also utilize advanced imaging technology to precisely diagnose, track, and monitor hair density and growth over time, ensuring measurable and effective results.
We are proud to be among the first practices in the country to offer Folix, the first FDA-cleared laser device for the treatment of hair loss. Beyond clinical use, our research department is actively collaborating with Folix to further advance and refine this technology—continuing our commitment to driving progress in the field of hair restoration.
At UnionDerm, patients benefit from the most advanced medical, energy-based, and regenerative therapies available, all delivered with a focus on safety, efficacy, and natural results. Our physicians are frequently invited to present their findings at national dermatology meetings and have helped shape many of today’s most effective approaches to hair restoration.
Advanced Treatments for Hair Loss
Treatment options at UnionDerm go beyond traditional topical or oral medications, offering advanced and effective treatments that stimulate regrowth and improve scalp health. These advanced therapies provide benefits such as improved hair density, reduction of shedding, and overall effectiveness, though individual results may vary. Depending on your diagnosis, treatment may include:
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy
PRP uses your own blood’s growth factors to stimulate hair follicles, increase blood supply to the scalp, and encourage natural hair regrowth. The benefits of PRP therapy include improved hair density, reduced shedding, and overall effectiveness, though individual results may vary.
PRP is most effective for those with thinning hair. A good candidate is someone experiencing hair thinning rather than complete baldness, as PRP is generally less effective for total hair loss.
What to expect:
- Series of 3–4 treatment sessions spaced 4–6 weeks apart, as multiple sessions are usually required for optimal results.
- Each session takes about 30–45 minutes.
- Some patients may experience discomfort during injections, making PRP a potentially painful procedure.
- Minimal downtime; mild tenderness or swelling may occur.
- Results appear gradually over 3–6 months, with continued improvement.
- PRP can help regrow hair by extending the growth phase and increasing the thickness of the hair shaft, leading to fuller-looking hair.
Ideal for: Patients with thinning hair or early-stage androgenetic alopecia.
Folix
Folix is an advanced energy-based treatment designed to target the underlying factors that contribute to hair loss. Using precise light and laser technology, Folix works by stimulating dormant hair follicles, improving scalp circulation, and reducing inflammation, which together promote healthier hair growth.
What to expect:
- Typically performed in a series of sessions for best results.
- Each treatment is quick, minimally uncomfortable, and requires little to no downtime.
- Improvements develop gradually over several months as follicles respond and new growth emerges.
Ideal for: Patients experiencing thinning hair or certain types of alopecia who are looking for a non-invasive option to encourage regrowth.
UnionDerm is proud to offer Folix as part of our comprehensive approach to hair restoration, often combining it with other medical or regenerative therapies such as PRP or prescription treatments for enhanced outcomes.
Lifestyle & Nutritional Support
Our dermatologists may also recommend dietary changes, supplementation, and scalp care routines to strengthen hair and reduce further shedding, highlighting the benefits of lifestyle and nutritional support for hair health. These are considered effective treatments for certain types of hair loss. Addressing underlying disease and improving nutrition can help with hair thinning, and in some cases, these interventions can help regrow hair.
Schedule a Consultation
The first step toward addressing hair loss is a personalized consultation with one of UnionDerm’s board-certified dermatologists. During your visit, your doctor will take a detailed history, perform a scalp examination, and, when necessary, order blood work or a biopsy to determine the root cause. From there, you’ll receive a treatment plan customized to your specific type of hair loss, lifestyle, and long-term goals.
At UnionDerm, we combine medical expertise, compassion, and innovation to help you achieve healthier, fuller hair and renewed confidence.
Consultations are available at all four of our locations: in New York City at our Union Square and Central Park offices; in the Hamptons at our Water Mill, NY office; and at our newest Greenwich, CT location. Schedule your consultation today.
