Androgenic Alopecia vs. Telogen Effluvium: How to Tell the Difference (and Why It Matters)
A typical presentation of AGA
If you’ve ever typed “Why am I losing my hair?” into Google at 2 a.m., you already know how confusing the world of hair loss can be. Different causes, different symptoms, different treatments… and somehow every article contradicts the last one.
Two of the most common types of hair loss I see in the Hair Loss Pride community are androgenic alopecia and telogen effluvium. They can look similar. They can feel similar, but they are not the same thing; and understanding the difference is one of the most empowering steps you can take in your hair loss journey.
As someone who has lived with hair loss since I was a teenager and has spent years supporting women through the emotional and physical side of it, I want to break down these two conditions in a way that’s straightforward, honest, and actually helpful.
Let’s get into it.
What Is Androgenic Alopecia? (Also called Female Pattern Hair Loss)
Androgenic alopecia (AGA) is a genetic and hormonal form of hair loss. In women, it usually shows up as:
A wider part
Thinning at the crown
Reduced density along the front and top of the scalp
A gradual weakening of each individual strand
This type of hair loss is progressive, meaning it slowly advances over time. You don’t wake up one morning bald; it’s more of a “death by a thousand cuts” situation, where you suddenly realize your ponytail is half the size it used to be.
The Main Causes
Genetics
Hormonal sensitivity to DHT
Aging
Perimenopause and menopause
Treatment Options
AGA doesn’t typically reverse on its own, but there are ways to slow progression or improve hair density:
Minoxidil: topical or oral
Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT)
Anti-androgen medications: spironolactone or finasteride that are prescribed under medical supervision
PRP: Platelet Rich Plasma
Hair fibers, toppers, wigs: for immediate confidence support
Lifestyle/nutritional support- not a cure, but beneficial to your scalp and hair health
What Is Telogen Effluvium?
Telogen effluvium (TE) is temporary, stress-induced shedding, and honestly one of the most terrifying experiences because the hair loss can be dramatic.
Women often say things like:
“I swear half my hair is coming out in the shower.”
“There’s hair everywhere: my brush, my pillow, my clothes.”
“I’m afraid to wash my hair because the shedding won’t stop.”
The Main Causes
TE usually happens after the body goes through something big:
Stress (emotional or physical)
Illness that causes a high fever, like Covid
Postpartum
Sudden weight loss or eating disorders
Major surgery
Low iron, vitamin deficiencies, thyroid imbalance
Medication changes
This is your body saying: I am overwhelmed, and hair growth is not the priority right now.
Treatment Options
The good news is that TE is usually reversible within 3–9 months once the trigger is addressed:
Correct nutritional deficiencies
Reduce stress (yes, I know, easier said than done)
Support the scalp with gentle care
Consider LLLT or low-dose minoxidil if recommended by a specialist
Prioritize sleep, hydration, and nervous system regulation
So… How Do You Know Which One You Have?
Here’s a clear comparison:
Onset
AGA: Slow and gradual
TE: Sudden, noticeable shedding
Pattern
AGA: Thinning at the top, crown, widening part
TE: Diffuse shedding all over
Scalp Health
AGA: Follicles miniaturize over time
TE: Follicles typically remain healthy
Hair Shedding
AGA: Mild shedding
TE: Heavy shedding (sometimes handfuls at a time)
Timeline
AGA: Long-term
TE: Temporary, although it can become chronic if the underlying trigger isn’t addressed
Yes, you can have both at the same time. A lot of women do, including me.
Why Getting the Right Diagnosis Matters
It matters because the treatments are different. You can waste months (and a painful amount of money) treating the wrong thing if you’re guessing. A dermatologist or trichologist can help confirm what’s going on through a scalp exam, bloodwork, and sometimes a biopsy.
Here’s what I want you to hear: You didn’t cause this. You didn’t fail. You’re not alone.
Hair loss is deeply emotional. It’s fear, grief, shame, identity, self-esteem, and body image all wrapped up together. I’ve lived that, and now I spend my days helping women navigate it.
Whether you’re dealing with AGA, TE, or a mix of both, you deserve support and clarity- not confusion and panic.
Final Thoughts: Your Hair Story Isn’t Over
Hair loss can feel like the rug has been pulled out from under you, but understanding what you’re dealing with gives you your power back.
AGA requires long-term management. TE requires patience and healing. Both require compassion for yourself.
No matter what type of hair loss you’re facing: you have options, and a community right here cheering you on every step of the way.
