Telogen Effluvium vs Androgenetic Alopecia: How to Tell the Difference

Young woman with hair loss problem indoors, closeup

Hair loss can be distressing, especially when it happens unexpectedly or progresses over time. While it’s easy to assume all hair shedding is the same, there are actually many types of hair loss, each with its own causes, progression, and treatment. Two of the most common are telogen effluvium and androgenetic alopecia. Though they may look similar in the early stages, they differ significantly in terms of triggers, timeline, and long-term management.

At Dermatology Associates of Plymouth Meeting, our board-certified dermatologists take a medical approach to hair loss—starting with an accurate diagnosis and a treatment plan tailored to your specific condition.

Telogen Effluvium: Sudden, Stress-Induced Hair Shedding

Telogen effluvium is a form of temporary hair loss that usually occurs after a significant physical or emotional stressor. This might include:

Surgery or major illness
Childbirth
Sudden weight loss
High fever
Emotional trauma
Medication changes

Under normal conditions, about 10% of hair follicles are in the resting (telogen) phase. In telogen effluvium, that number can spike to 30% or more, causing large amounts of hair to shed, often in handfuls.

Key features of telogen effluvium:

Sudden onset, often 2–3 months after a triggering event
Diffuse thinning over the entire scalp
No scalp inflammation or scarring
Often self-limited, resolving in 6–9 months once the trigger is addressed

Androgenetic Alopecia: Gradual, Patterned Hair Loss

Androgenetic alopecia, often referred to as “male-pattern” or “female-pattern” hair loss, is a chronic and progressive form of hair thinning driven by genetics and hormones. While it’s more widely recognized in men, women are equally affected—especially with age.

This type of hair loss is usually slower and more persistent than telogen effluvium. In men, it often starts with recession at the temples and thinning at the crown. In women, it typically presents as a widening part and overall reduction in hair density across the top of the scalp.

Key features of androgenetic alopecia:

Gradual onset, often starting in the 20s–40s
More noticeable along the crown, hairline, or part
Often hereditary
May require long-term treatment (e.g., topical minoxidil, oral medications, or procedures like PRP)

Why an Accurate Diagnosis Matters

While it may be tempting to self-diagnose or try over-the-counter treatments, the best outcomes come from a tailored approach. Misdiagnosing androgenetic alopecia as telogen effluvium—or vice versa—can delay effective care and lead to ongoing frustration.

At Dermatology Associates of Plymouth Meeting, we begin with a thorough evaluation that may include:

Medical history and symptom timeline
Scalp examination or trichoscopy
Bloodwork to check for thyroid or nutritional issues
Scalp biopsy, if needed

A Medical Approach to Hair and Scalp Health

Hair loss isn’t just cosmetic—it’s often a sign of what’s happening internally. Whether you’re experiencing sudden shedding or long-term thinning, an expert diagnosis is the first step toward tangible results.

Dermatology Associates of Plymouth Meeting offers medical-grade solutions tailored to your hair loss type. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward restoring your hair health.