What is the Difference Between Androgenetic Alopecia and Telogen Effluvium?

Androgenetic alopecia and telogen effluvium are two distinct types of hair loss with different characteristics and causes. Here are the main differences between the two:

Nature of hair loss: Androgenetic alopecia is a permanent form of hair loss, while telogen effluvium is a temporary type of hair loss.
Causes: Androgenetic alopecia is caused by progressive miniaturization of hair follicles, leading to a reduction in hair thickness and number, especially in the central, frontal, and parietal scalp regions. Telogen effluvium, on the other hand, is characterized by diffuse hair loss within months of a significant systemic stress or trigger, such as endocrine disorders, nutritional disorders, drugs, psychological stress, or physical stress.
Hair shedding: In telogen effluvium, the shedding is temporary and eventually stops. In contrast, hair loss in androgenetic alopecia is more gradual and leads to a significant decrease in hair thickness over time.
Hair follicle effects: Androgenetic alopecia causes hair follicles to miniaturize, leading to thinner and shorter hairs. Telogen effluvium does not have the same effect on hair follicles.
Diagnosis: Diagnosing the two conditions may be challenging, especially in the early stages, as they can present with similar clinical and dermoscopic findings. However, telogen effluvium is often characterized by an increased number of hairs entering the telogen (resting) phase, while androgenetic alopecia is associated with increased hair diameter diversity (HDD), perifollicular discoloration, and the presence of vellus hairs.

Both telogen effluvium and androgenetic alopecia are treatable, with the right medication if necessary. It is essential to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan.

On this page

What is the Difference Between Androgenetic Alopecia and Telogen Effluvium?

Comparative Table: Androgenetic Alopecia vs Telogen Effluvium

Androgenetic alopecia and telogen effluvium are two different types of hair loss. Here is a table comparing the differences between them:

Feature	Androgenetic Alopecia	Telogen Effluvium
Definition	A permanent form of hair loss caused by genetic and hormonal factors.	A temporary and reversible form of hair loss that occurs when hairs prematurely enter the telogen phase of the hair cycle.
Onset	Gradual, with hair loss usually starting at the temples or other parts of the hairline, followed by a bald patch near the crown.	Sudden and diffuse, affecting the entire scalp.
Hair Loss	Hair that is lost usually won't grow back.	Hair loss stops once the telogen effluvium event is resolved.
Cause	Genetic and hormonal factors, specifically the presence of the androgen hormone dihydrotestosterone (DHT).	Caused by various factors, including stress, hormonal changes, medications, or other external factors.
Treatment	Treatments like minoxidil, finasteride, or hair transplant surgery may be necessary.	Treatment depends on the underlying cause, but may include addressing the inciting event, using medications, or hair care treatments.
Prognosis	Hair loss tends to be progressive and worsen over time if not treated.	Hair loss is temporary and usually resolves once the causative event is addressed or resolved.

It is essential to differentiate between these two types of hair loss to determine the most appropriate course of treatment.

Guilherme Mazui

Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.