What Are the Causes of Hair Loss on the Ankles?

Although hair loss on your scalp and face is more noticeable than on other parts of your body, any type of hair loss is cause for concern. Loss of hair on your ankles can occur slowly or develop quickly, depending on the cause. According to the Mayo Clinic and the United States National Library of Medicine, causes of hair loss on the ankles include friction and skin disorders.

Alopecia

• Alopecia is a type of hair loss that may be temporary or permanent and can affect small areas of hair or all the hair on the body, including ankles.

Friction

• Friction from your socks, pants or pantyhose may cause the hair loss, which may extend up your leg.

Hormones

• Fluctuations in your hormones due to childbirth, menopause or aging may also cause your body hair to thin and fall out.

Itching

• Scratching ankles made itchy by perspiration or skin irritations may cause hair loss on your ankles, too.

Psoriasis

• Psoriasis is a skin condition that causes thick scales and flakes on the skin and may also cause loss of hair if it occurs on your ankles.

Ringworm

• Ringworm is a type of fungal infection that can occur anywhere on your body and may cause a circular rash and loss of hair in the area of the rash.