Androgenetic Alopecia and Telogen Effluvium in a 34-Year-Old Male: Comprehensive Hair Loss Care in Katy & Houston, TX
by: Caroline Vaughn
At Village Dermatology, many men in their 30s come to us with concerns about thinning hair, not realizing that more than one type of hair loss may be at play. In this case, a 34-year-old male presented with both androgenetic alopecia (male-pattern hair loss) and telogen effluvium (temporary excessive shedding).
Patient History
The patient reported:
Gradual crown and temple thinning for 6 months
Moderate severity hair loss
History of 25-pound weight loss over 7 months
Hair loss worsened after a car accident 4 years ago
Family history of hair thinning but no complete baldness
Currently using topical minoxidil
Clinical Examination
Using dermatoscopy, we found:
Patterned thinning at the crown and temples consistent with AGA
Positive hair pull test with telogen hairs, confirming TE
Diffuse, non-scarring hair loss at the mid-parietal scalp
Diagnosis
Androgenetic Alopecia (AGA)
Chronic, genetically driven miniaturization of hair follicles
Gradual thinning in predictable patterns
Telogen Effluvium (TE)
Temporary increase in hair shedding
Triggered by stress, illness, or physical changes (e.g., weight loss)
Often self-limiting but can overlap with AGA
Treatment Plan
After reviewing options—including topical/oral minoxidil, finasteride, platelet-rich plasma (PRP), and AlmaTED—the patient chose oral minoxidil.
Prescribed:
Oral Minoxidil 2.5 mg once daily (in addition to topical minoxidil)
Education on side effects (low blood pressure, swelling, unwanted hair growth)
PRP discussed as a potential future add-on for enhanced regrowth and shedding reduction
Counseling & Education
For AGA:
Long-term maintenance is key; results take ~6 months to appear
Discussed risks of finasteride (sexual side effects, mood changes)
For TE:
Often resolves once triggers are addressed
Nutritional supplements such as Nutrafol or Viviscal may support regrowth
Minoxidil can help shorten the regrowth phase
Advised gentle hair care and avoiding harsh products or styling
Follow-Up Plan
Recheck in 4–6 months to assess response
Consider PRP or AlmaTED if progress plateaus
Maintain both oral and topical therapy for sustained improvement
Why This Matters for Katy & Houston Residents
Men experiencing hair loss should know that it’s common to have more than one type at the same time. Correct diagnosis—like in this case—ensures personalized, effective treatment. At Village Dermatology, we combine medical therapies, in-office procedures, and patient education to optimize long-term hair health.
