Diffuse Thinning

Diffuse thinning refers to hair loss that causes an overall decrease in hair density across the scalp rather than isolated patches or a clearly receding hairline. Individuals with diffuse thinning commonly notice increased shedding, reduced volume, a widening part, or finer hair texture; it can affect both men and women and may develop gradually or relatively quickly depending on the cause.

Causes include telogen effluvium triggered by stress, illness, surgery, or medications, nutritional deficiencies, thyroid and other hormonal disorders, autoimmune conditions, and genetic predisposition. Diagnosis typically involves a medical history, scalp examination, a hair-pull test and targeted blood tests or biopsy when indicated, and management focuses on identifying and treating underlying causes, correcting deficiencies, applying appropriate medical therapies such as topical minoxidil when suitable, and considering surgical options only after hair loss has stabilized.