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Hair guide β€Ί How do I tell female pattern hair loss from telogen effluvium?

How do I tell female pattern hair loss from telogen effluvium?

βœ“ Medically reviewed✍️ HairBase editorial teamπŸ“… Last updated: June 14, 2026⏱ 1 min read
πŸ’‘ Quick answer

A postpartum brush is not always AGA. Photograph; labs and a dermatologist still matter.

Both can coexist. Ludwig/Sinclair maps are other files. This page will not invent a PMID. Related: ludwig-vs-sinclair and telogen clock β€” different URLs.

Do not start oral finasteride from a part selfie. Pregnancy rules differ. Do not double minoxidil because two clocks overlapped.

Sudden patches, scarring, or a child with loss skip this contrast. This is not medical advice.

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πŸ“š Sources

Sources: AAD β€” shedding β†—

FAQ

Can I have both?

Yes. That is why exams exist.

Same as Ludwig page?

Related female map, different URL. This file is pattern versus TE.

Iron instead of pattern care?

Labs are clinical. Do not invent a ferritin-only protocol.

More foam to cover both?

Follow the carton if labelled use is agreed. Do not invent a double clock dose.

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Not medical advice. General education only; it does not replace diagnosis or treatment by a licensed professional. Figures such as 1 mg or 5% are labelled strengths you may see in your country β€” not a dosing instruction. Consult a board-certified dermatologist before starting, stopping or changing any treatment.

⚠️ When to see a doctor β€” don’t self-treat

  • Sudden patchy or circular bald spots
  • Redness, scaling, pus, pain or itch (possible scarring alopecia β€” treat urgently)
  • Broken hairs or rapid loss
  • Loss with body-wide signs (weight loss, fatigue, cycle changes, acne, extra hair)
  • Loss right after a new medication
  • Any hair loss in a child
Try the free self-check β†’
Try the free self-check β†’