Telogen Effluvium vs Androgenic Alopecia: What’s Causing Your Hair Fall?

Hair fall can be distressing, but understanding the root cause is the first step toward the right treatment. Two of the most common forms of hair loss seen at Radiant Skin Clinic in Indore are Telogen Effluvium and Androgenic Alopecia (also known as male or female pattern baldness). While both conditions result in noticeable hair thinning, their causes, symptoms, and treatments differ significantly.

In this blog, Dr. Abhishek Malviya, renowned dermatologist and hair transplant surgeon at Radiant Skin Clinic, Indore, breaks down these two conditions to help you identify which one might be affecting you.

What Is Telogen Effluvium?

Telogen Effluvium is a temporary form of hair shedding that occurs when a large number of hair follicles enter the telogen (resting) phase of the hair cycle prematurely. It typically appears 2–3 months after a triggering event and results in diffuse thinning all over the scalp.

Common Causes of Telogen Effluvium:

High fever or illness

Surgery or childbirth

Physical or emotional stress

Sudden weight loss or crash diets

Iron or Vitamin D deficiency

Hormonal changes (e.g., thyroid issues)

Symptoms:

Sudden, noticeable hair shedding

More hair on your pillow, comb, or shower drain

Thinning across the scalp (not localized)

Good News:

TE is usually reversible. Once the underlying cause is addressed, hair growth resumes within 6–9 months.

What Is Androgenic Alopecia?

Androgenic Alopecia (AGA) is a genetic and progressive condition that causes hair follicles to shrink over time, leading to gradual thinning and eventual baldness. It is the most common cause of hair loss in both men and women.

Caused by:

Genetic predisposition

Hormonal influence (especially dihydrotestosterone or DHT)

Symptoms in Men:

Receding hairline

Thinning at the crown

Horseshoe-shaped pattern of baldness

Symptoms in Women:

Widening of the parting

General thinning across the crown

Rarely leads to complete baldness

Unlike TE, AGA does not resolve on its own—it requires long-term treatment or surgical intervention like a hair transplant. How to Tell the Difference
Feature: Telogen Effluvium Androgenic Alopecia
Onset Sudden: (2–3 months after trigger) Gradual, over months or years
Pattern: Diffuse thinning, Patterned hair loss
Reversibility: Usually reversible, Progressive if untreated
Triggered By: Stress, illness, deficiency, Hormones, genetics
Age Group: Any age. Usually starts after puberty

Diagnosis & Treatment at Radiant Skin Clinic, Indore
Dr. Abhishek Malviya uses advanced diagnostic tools, including dermoscopy, trichoscopy, and blood tests, to accurately determine the cause of your hair loss.

Treatment for Telogen Effluvium:

Nutritional supplements (Biotin, Iron, Vitamin D)

Stress management

Scalp care and mild shampoos

PRP therapy for faster regrowth

Treatment for Androgenic Alopecia:

FDA-approved medications (Minoxidil, Finasteride)

PRP therapy to slow progression

Hair transplant surgery for advanced cases

If you are dealing with pattern baldness, we recommend exploring our expert services for the
Best hair transplant in Indore.

Consult the Best Dermatologist in Indore Today
Still unsure about what’s causing your hair fall? Don’t wait for it to worsen. Dr. Abhishek Malviya is recognized as the best dermatologist in Indore for skin and hair-related concerns, offering personalized and evidence-based treatments.

Book Your Consultation Today
Get a clear diagnosis and a tailored treatment plan for your hair loss—whether it’s Telogen Effluvium, Androgenic Alopecia, or a mix of both.

Visit us at Radiant Skin Clinic, Indore or book your appointment online.

About Us

Dr. Abhishek Malviya is a Dermatologist, Cosmetologist, Laser Surgeon Specialist and Hair Transplant Surgeon in Pipliyahana, Indore and has an experience of 9 years in these fields.

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