Itchy Scalp on East Coast

I am a 41-year-old mother of five who’s been experiencing male pattern hair loss (similar in pattern to Dr. Rassman’s photo) for three years. In the past 15 months, the hair loss has advanced significantly. My scalp itches incessantly, especially in the areas of concentrated loss (temples), often waking me at night. I’ve seen three dermatologists, all of whom summarily dismissed me; only one testing my hair, another sending me off with $100 shampoos. I’ve traveled to NYC to see a specialist only to be shuttled out the door with a $950 bill. Extensive bloodwork by an internist showed normal range results.I’ve tried Rogaine 5% and 2%–but scalp irritation intensifies without results. Two questions: (1) Is there a topical or oral product that will eradicate the unbearable itching–I’ve been told itching is characteristic of hereditary hair loss. (2) Could you recommend an ethical, knowledgable expert colleague on the East Coast–would like to know honestly if I’m a candidate for hair transplant or will be taking the wig route. Hair loss certainly stinks! Many thanks for your response.

You may want to look up Dr. Bernstein in New York. He is compassionate and very knowledgable. I can not recommend a treatment when I do not have a diagnosis. It does sound like you are not getting a serious evaluation. Certainly with a $950 bill for an office visit, I would expect far more value than you seem to have gotten.