Washington Cosmetology License Practice Exam 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

Androgenetic alopecia is the most prevalent type of hair loss seen in both men and women, often referred to as male-pattern or female-pattern baldness. This condition is characterized by a genetic predisposition that affects hormone levels, specifically dihydrotestosterone (DHT), leading to a gradual thinning of hair on the scalp. In men, it typically presents as a receding hairline and balding on the crown, while in women, it usually manifests as overall thinning, particularly along the part line.

This form of hair loss is quite widespread and can begin at varying ages, commonly starting in the twenties or thirties, making it highly relevant in discussions about hair loss in both genders. The other types of hair loss mentioned have specific causes and demographics; for instance, alopecia areata involves patchy hair loss due to an autoimmune condition, telogen effluvium is often temporary and related to stress or illness, and traction alopecia results from continual pulling on the hair due to certain hairstyles. In contrast, androgenetic alopecia is a progressive and hereditary condition, which is why it is recognized as the most common form of hair loss.