Why Would We Refer Potential Clients to a Dermatologist Before a Consultation?

Before considering hair restoration procedures, it’s important to understand the underlying cause of your hair loss. If there are conflicting indicators in regard to what may be causing your hair loss we sometimes refer potential clients to a dermatologist who can run tests to confirm the cause.

Dermatologists are physicians specializing in conditions involving the hair, skin, and nails. They can diagnose thousands of conditions – including those that lead to hair loss. They also are able to prescribe medications and help you address any underlying health conditions causing the hair loss. Once these causes are resolved or ruled out, we can help with your hair restoration needs.

What Do Dermatologists Do For Hair Loss?

To pinpoint the cause of your hair loss, your dermatologist will give you a physical exam and ask questions about your medical history, family history, your hair loss, your hair care routine, and your diet. Then they will examine your hair, your scalp, and test the health of your hair. If necessary, they will run additional tests.

Once a diagnosis is made, they can aid you in addressing any underlying health conditions contributing to your hair loss… and prescribe appropriate medications.

What Tests Should Be Done For Hair Loss?

To determine the cause of your hair loss, your dermatologist may run one or more tests. From a simple tug to a panel of blood tests… they have many tools at their disposal.

The following are some of the most common:

• A blood draw may be done to help uncover any medical conditions contributing to your hair loss. Blood tests will indicate if you are experiencing a hormonal imbalance, a vitamin or iron deficiency, or a thyroid condition – all common causes of hair loss, especially in women.
• A pull test is exactly what it sounds like. Your doctor will pull gently on sections of your hair to see how many strands come out. This aids in determining the stage you are at in the growth and shedding process.
• A tug test is when the doctor grips a small section of hair with one hand at the root and the other at the end. They then tug to see if any of the strands break in the middle.
• A scalp biopsy may be necessary to determine if an infection is causing your hair loss. Your doctor will take samples of your hair or scrape cells from your scalp to examine under a microscope.
• Light microscopy can reveal possible disorders of the hair shaft. Your doctor will trim a few select hairs and use a special instrument to examine the base of those hairs and follicles.

Austin Hair Restoration Clinic Is Here To Help

Austin Hair Restoration Clinic is here for all of your hair loss needs. We offer a variety of hair restoration options including medications, low-level laser therapy, and the ARTAS® Robotic Hair Transplant System – a procedure that produces exceptional results and gets you back to your daily life within a few days. Hair loss doesn’t have to be permanent anymore. Contact us today for a free consultation and let us restore your hair and your confidence.