Hair disorders are very diverse. They can cause hair loss, thinning, and scalp problems (itching, dandruff, flakes, or redness). The causes can be varied: ranging from genetic factors, stress, and hormonal fluctuations to autoimmune diseases, infections, and external influences such as hair styling.

Localized or diffuse hair loss, also known as alopecia, presents a heterogeneous clinical picture, sometimes causing significant psychosocial distress. Accurate evaluation of alopecia is crucial and includes a detailed medical history and physical examination. Diagnostic procedures (such as a trichogram or skin biopsy) and blood tests (e.g., thyroid function tests, iron level assessment, and/or hormone level determination) may also be helpful or necessary to precisely identify the underlying cause.

Differentiating between non-scarring forms (e.g., androgenetic alopecia, telogen effluvium, alopecia areata) and scarring forms (e.g., lichen planopilaris and frontal fibrosing alopecia) is essential, as only the former are potentially reversible and to determine the necessary treatment options.