Quick answer. Hair loss in Singapore is most commonly due to androgenetic alopecia (pattern baldness), telogen effluvium triggered by stress or illness, thyroid dysfunction, or iron deficiency. Patchy hair loss with scalp scarring or inflammation requires prompt dermatologist review, as scarring alopecia permanently destroys follicles if untreated.
Hair loss — medically known as alopecia — is a common concern across all age groups in Singapore. Noticing more hair in the shower drain or on the pillow can be distressing, but most causes are treatable when identified early.
This guide covers the most common forms of hair loss seen in Singapore, explains the warning signs that warrant prompt specialist review, and helps you navigate when to see a dermatologist or endocrinologist.
At a glance
| Condition | Pattern | Urgency |
|---|---|---|
| Androgenetic alopecia (pattern baldness) | Men: frontal recession + crown thinning; Women: diffuse crown widening | Routine – treatments work best started early |
| Telogen effluvium | Diffuse shedding across the whole scalp, 2-4 months after a trigger | Routine – usually self-limiting; see a doctor if persisting >6 months |
| Thyroid disorder or iron deficiency | Diffuse thinning, often with other systemic symptoms | See a doctor for blood tests |
| Alopecia areata | Smooth, round, oval patches of complete hair loss | See a dermatologist; can extend rapidly |
| Patchy loss with scalp scarring, redness or pustules | Possible scarring alopecia – permanent if not treated early | See a dermatologist soon |
Red flags: when to see a dermatologist soon
Most hair loss is not medically urgent, but see a dermatologist soon if you notice:
- Patchy hair loss with scalp scarring — smooth, shiny skin where hair once grew, without visible follicle openings, may indicate scarring alopecia (cicatricial alopecia), which permanently destroys follicles
- Scalp inflammation, redness or pustules in areas of hair loss (folliculitis decalvans or other inflammatory conditions)
- Rapidly expanding patches of hair loss over weeks
- Pain, tenderness or burning of the scalp with hair loss
- Hair loss in a child with scalp scaling or broken stubby hair — may be tinea capitis (scalp ringworm), a treatable fungal infection
Scarring alopecias represent a dermatological urgency because the window for preserving existing follicles is limited. Early biopsy and treatment are essential.
Androgenetic alopecia (pattern baldness)
Androgenetic alopecia is the most common form of hair loss in both men and women, driven by genetic sensitivity of hair follicles to dihydrotestosterone (DHT). In men it causes a receding frontal hairline and crown thinning; in women it causes diffuse thinning at the crown with the frontal hairline usually preserved.
Treatments slow progression and can stimulate some regrowth but do not permanently cure the condition. Options include topical minoxidil (available over the counter), oral finasteride for men, platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections, and hair transplant surgery. A dermatologist can advise on the most suitable approach for your degree of loss.
Telogen effluvium
Telogen effluvium is temporary diffuse hair shedding that occurs when a physiological shock — such as illness, major surgery, childbirth, significant stress, or rapid weight loss — pushes a large number of hairs into the resting phase simultaneously. Shedding typically appears 2-4 months after the trigger.
The condition is self-limiting in most cases; the hair cycle normalises and regrowth occurs over 3-6 months once the trigger resolves. Ensuring adequate nutrition (especially iron and protein) supports recovery. If shedding persists beyond six months, blood tests to exclude thyroid disease or iron deficiency are warranted.
Thyroid disorders and iron deficiency
Both an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) and an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism) can cause diffuse hair thinning, as thyroid hormones regulate the hair growth cycle. Iron deficiency — even without anaemia — is also a well-recognised cause, particularly in premenopausal women with heavy periods or low dietary iron intake.
Signs suggesting a thyroid cause include unexplained fatigue, weight change, cold or heat intolerance, or thinning of the outer eyebrows. Signs of iron deficiency include fatigue, pallor, and a history of heavy periods or low red meat intake. A blood panel — thyroid function (TSH) and iron studies (serum ferritin) — can identify or exclude these. Treating the underlying condition typically allows hair to recover over several months.
Alopecia areata
Alopecia areata is an autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks hair follicles, causing smooth, round or oval patches of complete hair loss. The skin within the patch looks normal with no scarring or scaling — this distinguishes it from scarring alopecias. It can affect the scalp, beard, eyebrows or eyelashes.
Limited, stable alopecia areata often resolves spontaneously. Treatment options include intralesional corticosteroid injections into patches, topical immunotherapy, and — for more extensive disease — JAK inhibitor medications, which have shown meaningful benefit in clinical trials and are now available in Singapore via specialist prescription.
Which specialist should you see?
See a specialist if hair loss is rapidly progressing, has caused visible thinning or bald patches, comes with scalp symptoms (pain, redness, flaking), is linked to systemic symptoms suggesting a hormonal or nutritional cause, or is affecting your quality of life.
For diagnosis and treatment of scalp conditions and hair loss, consult one of Singapore’s dermatologists, who can examine the scalp with a dermatoscope and arrange targeted tests. If a hormonal cause such as thyroid disease is suspected, a referral to one of Singapore’s endocrinologists may be recommended.
What to expect at the appointment
At a hair-loss consultation, the doctor will ask how long you have been shedding, whether it is patchy or diffuse, and about any recent illness, surgery, childbirth, crash dieting or major stress in the months beforehand. They will examine the scalp closely, often with a dermatoscope, to look at the hairline, parting width and the condition of the follicle openings. Bring a list of your medicines and supplements, and women may be asked about their periods and any signs of hormonal change. Blood tests such as thyroid function and ferritin (iron stores) are commonly arranged, and a scalp biopsy is occasionally needed when scarring is suspected.
Self-care while you investigate the cause
Gentle habits protect the hair you have. Avoid tight hairstyles, harsh chemical treatments and excessive heat styling, handle wet hair carefully, and eat a balanced diet with enough protein and iron. It is normal to lose some hair daily, so try not to over-interpret a few strands in the drain. Most treatments, whether minoxidil or treating an underlying thyroid or iron problem, take three to six months to show benefit, so consistency matters more than quick fixes.
Common questions
Will my hair grow back after telogen effluvium?
Usually yes. Once the trigger resolves, the hair cycle normalises and regrowth typically occurs over several months. See a doctor if shedding continues beyond six months.
Is hair loss in women always hormonal?
No. Iron deficiency, thyroid problems, stress-related shedding and pattern hair loss are all common in women, which is why blood tests and a proper examination help pinpoint the cause.
Related guides
- Best Dermatology Clinics in Singapore — our editorial shortlist
- dermatology clinics directory
- Hand & wrist pain
- Ankle swelling
- Itchy eyes
Sources
- NHS – Hair loss
- National Skin Centre Singapore
- HealthHub Singapore – Hair loss
- NHS – Alopecia areata
- NHS – Overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism)
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