Hair Thinning VS Balding – Know the Difference Hair thinning is a condition wherein the…
Hair Thinning VS Balding – Know the Difference
Hair thinning is a condition wherein the hair shaft grows thinner in diameter. Hair loss (that may lead to balding) is the loss of excessive amounts of hair. Though the symptoms of these two conditions are almost similar, the causes of hair thinning are different from those of hair loss and the conditions have some basic differences. Here is a comparison between hair thinning and balding in males and females.
Hair Thinning | Balding |
The causes of hair thinning include old age, hormonal conditions and lack of vitamins and minerals. With increasing age, the hair follicles or shafts grow thinner, leading to a decrease in hair density. High androgen levels can lead to hair thinning, eventually causing hair loss. | The causes of balding include heredity, certain medical conditions or treatments and stress. |
Hair thinning is a decrease in the hair diameter, and does not cause hair fall. | Balding leads to the fall of hair. |
Hair thinning is the first sign of hair loss/balding. | Hair loss is not the cause of hair thinning. |
Hair thinning does not mean that the hair growth stops. It is the slowing down of hair growth. | Hair loss or balding occurs when the process of hair growth is interrupted or stopped. |
Hair thinning is when your hair gets less dense, more brittle, which may lead to the hair falling out. | Balding caused by hair loss is when you lose hair at the root. It is a reason to worry when it is excessive. |
The thinning of hair causes the hair to appear thin and sparse. Hair thinning may lead to brittleness, effectively resulting in hair breakage and hair fall. | Balding leads to the appearance of bald patches (regions with loss of hair), or total loss of hair from the head. |
The treatments for hair thinning include dietary modifications to increase the intake of biotin, folic acid, omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, using an anti-thinning shampoo, and a scalp massage. | The treatments for balding include topical medicines like minoxidil and finasteride, laser therapy, PRP therapy and hair transplant. Hair loss treatments vary based on the underlying cause. |
So, this was an overview of the differences between hair thinning and balding. Basically, as the terms imply, hair thinning is the thinning of the hair shaft while balding is the loss of hair. For expert guidance on the two hair conditions and their treatment (if required), you should consult a skin specialist. He would assess your hair condition, identify the cause and administer the treatment that suits you best. For any advice regarding hair conditions, one of the best places to approach is Reborn Skin and Hair Clinic. They are located in easily accessible places in Pune, like Baner, Koregaon Park and Kothrud, and they are also operating in Jaipur. Reborn has a team of experienced skin doctors who specialize in treating hair conditions. Their guidance will help you attain healthy and beautiful hair.