I Don’t Think I Am Losing Hair, But Now My Scalp is Shiny Under Lights — Could It Just Be Oily?

Hi Dr. Rassman,

I have a question about fine vs thin hair. I am 32 and have very VERY wispy fine sandy blonde hair with an intact juvenile hairline. I don’t *think* it’s thinning as I have no shedding issues. But since I got a lousy haircut recently, I notice my scalp looks shiny under bright lights or the sun and it is making me paranoid. Some people say that scalp shine means hair has been lost, while the hairdresser advised me to use a medicated shampoo since it is extremely oily. Does this sound like thinning or does it seem more like a combination of hair cleanliness and natural texture? Thank you.

I believe “tow heads” was what we used to call those boys with fine, blonde, nearly see-through hair. As these boys become men, they may sooner or later recognize the see-through nature of their hair. If you are concerned, come see me or another good doctor and find out what your hair loss problem is, if you have one.

Scalp shine doesn’t necessarily mean your hair is falling out. It could be lighting, oily scalp, a combination of everything. I have no idea without seeing you, though.