My Hair on the Sides of My Head Is Falling Out

Hello, I’m 20 and I started experiencing hair loss or at least what I think is hair loss at the age of 17. My hair has always been thin and I’ve always had a really high hairline, but I’m getting these tiny hairs on the corners of my temple where it appears that hair is receding, and I read that is typical of a receding hairline. But what I don’t understand is the hair on the side of my head, right above my ears is where most of my hair falls out. I can literally pull tufts of hair out of that area. I haven’t read anything about hair loss occurring in that area. My question is is my hair loss going to lead to balding? or do I just have really thin hair?

Hair loss on the sides of the head isn’t typical for male pattern baldness (which is the opposite of what you describe). You need to see a good doctor in the field. I can not address your questions without an examination of your hair and scalp. There’s just no way for me to know via the web if what you’re seeing is disease or just the character of your hair.

To find an expert in your area, I’d try the physician search at ISHRS.org. If you’re in Los Angeles or can make it to LA, I’d be glad to see you.