Hair Thinning Or Falling Out? What To Do & Who To See

After a long day juggling work deadlines, commuting across town, and managing the little (or big) stresses of daily life, you finally settle in for some much-needed rest. You catch a glimpse of yourself in the mirror while brushing your hair, but something feels off. Was your ponytail always this light? And why does your hairbrush seem to be collecting more strands than usual?

If you’ve been noticing more hair in the shower drain, on your pillow, or stuck to your clothes lately, you’re not alone. Hair loss or thinning is a concern that creeps up slowly for some, but for others, it can feel like a sudden shock. While shedding a small amount of hair daily is normal, how do you know when it’s a sign of something more serious, and, more importantly, who should you turn to for help?

Understanding hair loss: What’s normal and what’s not?

It’s normal to lose about 50 to 100 hairs per day¹ as part of the natural hair cycle. However, when hair starts falling out in clumps, or you notice visible thinning at the crown, parting, or temples, it may indicate an underlying medical condition that needs attention.

Some common causes of hair loss include stress, illness, hormonal changes, weight loss, certain mineral deficiencies such as iron, zinc and vitamin D, thyroid imbalances, and autoimmune disorders. For women, postpartum hair loss is also typical, while men might notice receding hairlines or thinning at the top of the scalp. Certain hairstyles, frequent chemical treatments, or tight braids can also trigger a condition known as traction alopecia.

What many people don’t realise is that there are multiple types of hair loss, and each type requires a specific diagnosis and treatment approach. That’s where seeing the right specialist makes all the difference.

Not all hair experts are the same

When it comes to managing hair loss, many people turn first to over-the-counter products, hair salons, or aesthetic clinics offering hair regrowth solutions. While these might work for cosmetic concerns or mild cases, they may not be effective or appropriate for underlying medical hair and scalp disorders.

A dermatologist in Singapore who specialises in hair disorders is trained to evaluate the health of your scalp, follicles, and skin. Dermatologists can perform a detailed scalp examination, blood tests, or even scalp biopsies when needed to identify the root cause of your hair loss.

For example, if someone is experiencing sudden patchy bald spots, it could be a condition called alopecia areata², an autoimmune disease that causes the body to attack its own hair follicles. In contrast, a condition like lichen planopilaris³ is a scarring form of alopecia that can lead to permanent hair loss if not treated early. These aren’t cosmetic issues; they are medical conditions that require a precise diagnosis and often prescription treatments to slow or reverse the damage.

Hair transplant doctors, while helpful for certain cases, typically manage hair restoration from an aesthetic standpoint. They may not always be equipped to identify or treat inflammatory scalp diseases or autoimmune hair loss, which can worsen if left unaddressed. Similarly, hair care centres may offer topical products or scalp massages, but these do not target the underlying medical cause and can delay proper treatment.

When should you be concerned?

So, how do you know if it’s time to see a dermatologist? Here are some warning signs that suggest your hair loss may be more than just a cosmetic issue:

Sudden hair shedding or clumps falling out
Itchy, painful, red or scaly patches on your scalp
Bald patches that appear overnight
Noticeable thinning with visible scalp
Family history of autoimmune or hair loss conditions
Broken hairs or hair loss along the hairline
Scalp tenderness or inflammation

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s best not to delay. Early diagnosis is key in managing medical hair loss conditions effectively. Misdiagnosis or waiting too long can lead to permanent damage, scarring, and more complex treatment down the line.

What can you expect at a dermatology visit?

When you visit a dermatologist for hair loss, expect a comprehensive approach. They’ll likely ask about your extensive medical history, family history of hair issues, lifestyle habits, and recent stressors. They may use a trichoscope to closely examine the scalp and hair follicles. Blood tests might also be ordered to rule out hormonal or nutritional deficiencies.

Treatment options may include topical corticosteroids, oral medications, injectable therapies, light treatments, or even immunotherapy for autoimmune-related hair loss. For chronic or progressive conditions, dermatologists may work with you on a long-term management plan, which can include surgical hair restoration at the appropriate stage.

Hair loss is not just cosmetic

Hair plays a big role in identity and self-esteem. Experiencing hair loss can feel emotional and isolating, especially when it affects your daily confidence. But know that you’re not alone, and there is real medical support available.

The first step is understanding that not all hair concerns are the same and that finding a trusted, qualified medical professional is crucial. A dermatologist in Singapore who specialises in hair disorders will not only address your symptoms but also help you make informed decisions about treatment and recovery. Early and accurate diagnosis is often the turning point between effective management and long-term damage.

Conclusion

If your hair loss feels confusing, worrying, or overwhelming, you deserve real answers and not just quick fixes. Whether it’s a patchy bald spot, a sensitive scalp, or thinning that just won’t stop, don’t wait until it’s too advanced before taking action.

Reach out to Angeline Yong Dermatology, where evidence-based care meets experience in cosmetic, surgical, and medical dermatology. With a dedicated focus on hair and scalp conditions, Dr Angeline Yong offers tailored solutions that help you understand, treat, and take charge of your hair health.

References

Johnson, J. (2019, December 3). How much hair loss is normal? brushing, washing, and more. Medical News Today. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/327188

Alopecia areata. Cleveland Clinic. (2025a, April 8). https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/12423-alopecia-areata

Lichen planopilaris: Hair loss, symptoms & treatment. Cleveland Clinic. (2025, March 19). https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/24537-lichen-planopilaris

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Hair Thinning Or Falling Out? What To Do & Who To See