About Receding Hairlines in Teenagers

Hair loss, known in the medical community as alopecia, is rare among teenagers. But if you've noticed that your hairline is receding, don't be alarmed. Your genes determine when your hair will begin to thin. Some people begin to lose their hair as early as in their teens or 20s.

Considerations

• Regular hair loss is a hereditary condition based on genetics. If many of your family members have experienced early hair loss, then your chances of having a receding hair line in your teens or 20s are higher than if they didn't.

Types

• While hair loss is a common genetic condition, there are other diseases that may cause hair loss in teens. Ringworm is a fungus that can result in hair loss in people of all ages. Trichotillomania is a condition in which you intentionally pull out your hair. Medications, such as the chemicals used in some cancer treatments, can cause hair loss.

Help

• Consult your dermatologist for more information on hair loss. He can determine if your receding hair line is normal or if there is a problem causing it. He can also discuss treatments for the cause of your particular type of hair loss.