Types of Hair Loss: Areata, Totalis & Androgenetic Explained

What is alopecia?

In this article, you will read how three women cope with different types of alopecia, and how a suitable wig helped them regain their confidence.

Alopecia literally means hair loss. It can happen to anyone — suddenly, gradually, or hereditarily. The three most common forms are:

1. Alopecia Areata
2. Alopecia Totalis
3. Androgenetic Alopecia

Each type has a different cause, course, and impact on your daily life. Below you will discover the differences, with examples that offer recognition.

Why are experiences with different types of alopecia so important?

According to the Dutch Hair Foundation, alopecia areata, totalis, and androgenetica are the most common forms of hair loss.

The most common types of alopecia are alopecia areata, totalis, universalis, and androgenetica.

1. Alopecia Areata – Bald patches due to an autoimmune reaction

Alopecia areata is a form of hair loss where the body attacks its own hair follicles. This causes round or oval bald patches, usually on the scalp, but sometimes also on eyebrows, eyelashes, or beard.

Depending on the type of alopecia, wigs, hairpieces, or toppers can be a suitable solution.

Characteristics:

• Bald patches the size of a coin
• Often sudden onset
• Occurs in both children and adults
• No scarring or skin damage

Causes:

• Autoimmune disease
• Stress or hormonal fluctuations
• Hereditary predisposition may play a role

Sometimes hair grows back spontaneously, but the course is unpredictable. The condition is not contagious.

2. Alopecia Totalis – Total hair loss on the scalp

Alopecia totalis is a rarer but severe form of alopecia. It is often an extension of areata, where all the hair on the head falls out.

Characteristics:

• No scalp hair present anymore
• No pain, but often emotionally challenging
• Rapid or gradual progression possible

Causes:

• Usually autoimmune
• Sometimes genetic predisposition
• Progression is difficult to predict

People with alopecia totalis often choose a medical solution, such as a hairpiece or invisible lace wig, which offers both comfort and discretion.

3. Androgenetic Alopecia – Hereditary hair loss in women and men

Androgenetic alopecia is the best-known and most common form of hair loss, also called hereditary baldness. It develops gradually and progresses differently in men than in women.

In men:

• Receding hairline and baldness on the crown
• Usually visible from 20–30 years old
• Can become completely bald

In women:

• Diffuse hair loss on the top of the head
• Hairline usually remains intact
• Often visible after menopause

Causes:

• Sensitivity to DHT (dihydrotestosterone)
• Hereditary predisposition
• Hormonal changes

Although this form is often seen as “natural,” it can have a psychological impact on many people. Fortunately, there are also suitable hair solutions for this.

Visual recognition of the types of alopecia

A frequently asked question is: how do I know which form I have? A dermatologist can officially determine this, but visual recognition helps with awareness.

Type	Location	Course	Appearance
Areata	Local spots	Sudden	Round bald spots
Totalis	Entire scalp	Fast or gradual	Completely bald head
Androgenetic	Top of the head	Gradual	Thinning hair, especially at the parting

What can you do if you have alopecia?

There is no universal solution for alopecia. The best approach varies per person, depending on the type of alopecia, your lifestyle, and preferences.

Many people choose:

• Wigs for alopecia (such as medical hairpieces)
• Toppers for partial hair loss
• Scarves or turbans as a temporary alternative

At Adore My Wig, we guide you step by step — from first recognition to finding a comfortable, beautiful solution.

Want to know more?

Do you recognize yourself in one of these forms of hair loss? Or are you unsure?
Also read our pillar page about wigs for alopecia, or:

👉 Schedule a free intake consultation with a hairpiece specialist

Whatever type of alopecia you have, we help you with a solution that fits your situation.

How do you know which form of alopecia you have?

Although we have explained the three most common types of alopecia above, it is not always immediately clear which form you are dealing with. Hair loss can occur suddenly or gradually, and the pattern can vary. Therefore, it is important to take your complaints seriously and – if possible – consult a specialist, such as a dermatologist or hair specialist.

A correct diagnosis not only helps to understand the cause of your hair loss but also to reach the right solution faster. Some types of alopecia respond, for example, to medication or injections, while others remain stable and benefit more from a cosmetic solution such as a hairpiece or wig.

In addition, insight into your type of hair loss also provides peace of mind. You better know what to expect and which steps you can take yourself. Many people feel empowered when they understand that they are not alone — that there are others with similar experiences and solutions that really work.

Curious about what suits you best?