Red flags & when to go in person for Hair Loss (Androgenic Alopecia) in Children

Audience: pediatric

Hair loss in children, especially androgenic alopecia (a common type of hair thinning), can be concerning for families. This guide helps you understand when hair loss may be a normal pattern and when it might signal a need for in-person medical care. Androgenic alopecia usually causes gradual thinning on the scalp and is often inherited. However, sudden or patchy hair loss, scalp pain, redness, or other symptoms may suggest other causes that need closer examination. Telemedicine can help assess many hair loss concerns by reviewing history and pictures, but some situations require a physical exam or tests in person. Knowing the warning signs and preparing well for a virtual visit can help you get the right care for your child’s hair and scalp health.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Sudden or patchy hair loss that appears quickly — see a healthcare provider in person promptly.
• Scalp pain, redness, swelling, sores, or signs of infection — seek urgent in-person evaluation.
• Hair loss accompanied by fever, fatigue, or feeling unwell — get immediate medical attention.

What telemedicine can do

• Reviewing hair loss history and symptoms.
• Assessing photos or video of the scalp for pattern hair loss.
• Providing education about androgenic alopecia.
• Recommending initial care steps and monitoring.
• Determining need for in-person evaluation.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing scalp biopsy or physical scalp examination.
• Diagnosing infections, autoimmune diseases, or scalp cancers.
• Administering in-person treatments or procedures.
• Ordering and collecting scalp or blood tests directly.

What is Androgenic Alopecia in Children?

Androgenic alopecia, sometimes called pattern hair loss, is a common cause of gradual hair thinning in children and teens. It often runs in families and usually affects the top and front of the scalp. This type of hair loss happens slowly over time and does not cause pain or scalp changes.

Common Signs of Androgenic Alopecia

You may notice your child’s hair becoming thinner or less dense, especially near the temples or crown. The scalp may become more visible, but there is usually no itching, redness, or scaly skin. Hair shedding might increase slightly but typically is not sudden or patchy.

When to Seek In-Person Care

Seek in-person medical care if your child has:

These signs may indicate infections, autoimmune conditions, or other causes that need a physical exam and possibly tests.

How Telemedicine Can Help

Telemedicine visits can help review your child’s hair loss history, look at photos or live video of the scalp, and discuss symptoms. Providers can often guide you on initial care and whether further tests or treatments are needed. However, some cases require an in-person exam for accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Preparing for Your Telemedicine Visit

Before your visit, prepare by:

After Your Telemedicine Visit

Follow the provider’s advice carefully. This may include monitoring hair changes, trying recommended treatments, or scheduling an in-person visit if needed. Keep track of any new symptoms and report them promptly. Regular follow-up may be important to manage your child’s hair health.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Take clear, well-lit photos of your child’s scalp from multiple angles.
• Note the timeline of hair loss and any changes in symptoms.
• List any scalp symptoms such as itching, pain, or redness.
• Gather family history of hair loss or skin conditions.
• Prepare questions or concerns to discuss with the healthcare provider.

After your tele-visit

• Follow any treatment or care instructions given by the provider.
• Monitor your child’s hair and scalp for changes or new symptoms.
• Schedule an in-person visit if advised or if red flags develop.
• Keep a record of hair loss progression and treatments tried.
• Contact your healthcare provider if your child’s condition worsens or new symptoms appear.

FAQs

Can androgenic alopecia cause hair loss in young children?

Yes, androgenic alopecia can begin in childhood or adolescence, especially if there is a family history. It usually causes slow, gradual thinning rather than sudden hair loss.

Is hair loss always permanent with androgenic alopecia?

Hair loss from androgenic alopecia tends to be progressive but treatments may slow or partially reverse thinning. Early care and medical advice can help manage the condition.

When should I worry about my child’s hair loss?

Worry if hair loss is sudden, patchy, or accompanied by scalp pain, redness, sores, or if your child feels unwell. These signs need prompt in-person medical evaluation.

Can telemedicine diagnose my child’s hair loss?

Telemedicine can help assess symptoms and photos to suggest if hair loss looks like androgenic alopecia. However, some cases require in-person exams or tests for accurate diagnosis.

What treatments are available for androgenic alopecia in children?

Treatment options vary and may include topical medications or lifestyle advice. A healthcare provider can guide you on safe and appropriate treatments for your child.

Sources

1. Hair Loss: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia — U.S. National Library of Medicine / National Institutes of Health.
2. Alopecia Areata and Other Hair Loss Disorders — National Library of Medicine.
3. Hair Loss (Alopecia) in Children — American Academy of Pediatrics.
4. Hair Loss: Overview — Mayo Clinic.
5. Androgenetic Alopecia — Merck Manuals Consumer Version.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If your child has concerning symptoms or worsening hair loss, please seek evaluation by a healthcare professional in person.