List of Dermatologists specializing in female hair loss

[Puppet]

I am a journalist and I just finished writing on an article for a women's magazine about female hair loss. I also recently began experiencing hair thinning and hair loss myself, so I know what many of you are going through and wanted to pass this along. I did extensive research and interviewed a number of dermatologists who specialize in women's hair loss. These physicians may not be as high profile as Dr. Vera Price but they are equally if not more accomplished and have impressive credentials. Hope this helps.


Maria Hordinsky, MD
Univ. of Minnesota Physicians
420 Delaware St SE # MMC98
Minneapolis, MN
612 625-1493
Dermatology, Transplant Surgery
Head of the Department of Dermatology at the University of Minnesota, Minneapolis.Director of the Clinical Research Division in the Department of Dermatology. Her clinical interests focus on hair diseases such as alopecia areata. Her laboratory’s interests focus on questions related to cutaneous innervation and the effect of nerves and neuropeptides on the hair follicle.
Dr. Hordinsky is a member of the Scientific Advisory Council of the National Alopecia Areata Foundation, editor of the on-line journal ehairnews, and a member of the Board of Directors of the Women’s Dermatology Society. She has published over 40 manuscripts, 20 book chapters, 70 abstracts, and is a co-editor for the new Hair and Nails book


Amy J. McMichael, M.D.
Wake Forest University School of Medicine
Associate Professor; Dir. of Hair Disorders Clinic
Department of Dermatology
Phone: 336-716-2768
Medical Center Boulevard
Winston-Salem, NC 27157
Clinical/Research Interests
• Hair and scalp disease
• Pigmentation disorders
She said that women are very good candidates for hair transplants and have a very high success rate.

Rita Pichardo, M.D.
Wake Forest University School of Medicine
Assistant Professor
Department of Dermatology
Phone: 336-716-2768
Medical Center Boulevard
Winston-Salem, NC 27157

Wilma Bergfeld, M.D.
Section Head, Dermatopathology
(216) 444-5722
Cleveland Clinic Main Campus
9500 Euclid Avenue
Cleveland, OH 44195
Specialty Interests
Dermatopathology, alopecia, pigmented lesions and melanoma, cosmetic dermatology, skin tumors, general dermatology.
Past Head of the Section of Dermatopathology in the Department of Pathology and Staff Dermatologist and Past Head of the Section of Dermatological Research in the Department of Dermatology, at Cleveland Clinic. Director of the Cleveland Clinic’s Dermatopathology Fellowship and Professor of Dermatology and Pathology, Dr Bergfeld’s specialty interests include clinical dermatology, dermatopathology, hair disorders, androgen excess, photoaging and cosmetic dermatology.
Received the Women's Dermatological Association Rose Hirschler Award honoring an outstanding physician who has contributed to medicine and dermatology while enhancing the role of women in the Dermatology. Received the American Academy of Dermatology's prestigious Marion B. Sulzberger Award The American Society Dermatopathology in 2007 awarded her the prestige’s “Founders Award” and she was elected 2009 President of the American Society of Dermatopathology.

George Cotsarelis, M.D.
University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine
(Penn’s - one of the top Dermatology departments in the US)
422 Curie Blvd.
Philadelphia, PA 19104
610-902-2400 (Patient Appointments)
Clinical Specialties:
Hair and Scalp disorders
Research Area of Interest:
Epithelial Stem Cells
Hair Follicle Biology
Cutaneous Gene Therapy
Epithelial Carcinogenesis

Dr. Anthony Oro
Dermatology Clinic - Stanford University
900 Blake Wilbur Dr
W0001 MC 5334
Stanford, CA 94305
(650) 723-6316

Dr. Janet Hickman
Dermatology Consultants in Lynchburg, Virginia.
1330 Oak Lane Suite 101
Lynchburg, VA 24503
(434) 847-6132

Jerry Shapiro M.D.,C.M.
Department of Dermatology
Member of NYU Dermatologic Associates
TWR 7 7R
530 First Avenue
New York NY 10016
212-263-5889
Jerry.Shapiro@nyumc.org
Medical Interests
Diseases of the hair and scalp. Androgenetic alopecia, alopecia areata, therapeutics for hair diseases, hair biology.

[phurrballe]

Wow - thank you. I am in the NYC area and not too satisfied with the doctor I am seeing - can you please list what criteria used and what separates these on the list from others that did not make the list? Thank you very much !

Phurrballe

[Puppet]

The difference is the physicians on this list have subspeciaties in the field of Dermatology which focuses specifically on hair disorders. They have additional training and certification in their subspeciality beyond a general Certificate in Dermatology. I selected these particular dermatologiusts because they are specialists in hair disorders, they've lectured on hair disease, written extensively on the subject in medical journals and are up to date on new breakthroughs and clinical research. I can't say they are better or worse than other dermatologists who didn't make the list.

[Silvi]

I came across this site and have been encouraged by the information and the care that members seem to show and share with each other. I'm in need of finding a Dermatologist, Acupuncturist, really anyone that I can go to in South Florida, I live in Broward county (Fort Lauderdale) and work in Dade County (Miami). I just turned 52 last week and went through a bad divorce two years ago, and I think I've been stressing for the last 5 years. I started noticing some hair loss about 4 years ago in the front of my head, if I pulled my bangs back I could see my scalp. But I attributed to my stress and I've been in denial. I also have high blood pressure and have been taking medication for it for about 10 years. Currently taking Diovan. (Someone told me that some high blood pressure medication causes hair lost, I ask my regular Doctor but she said that the one I was taking does not) It seems that within the last 6 months, my thick wavvy hair, is now thin, not much body and when I run my fingers through my hair, I can feel that a third of my hair is gone. I'm no longer in denial, so now I'm freaking out. I've been reading different articles on line and came across something that said that if body lacks "iodine" that could case hair lost among other things, it suggested eating eggs, strawberries, seaweed and a number of other foods that contain iodine. I have not heard anyone on this site mention anything about this. I'm trying to relax and keep myself from stressing, but everytime I pass a mirror or run my fingers through my hair, it all comes back again. My parents who are now 86 and 81 both have thining hair, so I'm hoping it's not hereditary. I just want to get to the bottom of this and find out if its a dificiency, hereditary, stress or something else. I hope someone can give me some directions or advise. Thank you

[kellyjean]

Anyone in Georgia?

[gale]

cant thank you enough for the info, was wondering anyone in Sounthern California.

[Puppet]

Try

Richard A Strick M.D.
UCLA Medical Center
UClA Medical Plz Ste 660
Los Angeles, CA 90095
(310) 794-1573

He's also on the advisory council for the Naitonal Alopecia Areata Foundation

[jenn99]

Hey, I live in Georgia too. If you find a good dr. let me know, I'm desperate.

[gale]

Thank you very very much.

[Jo C]

How do I locate or which website could I go to find a Dermatologist in the state of Iowa whom have subspeciaties in the field of Dermatology which focuses specifically on hair disorders? :confused:

Would the website of American Academy of Dermatology be a good place to start to find a reputable (and someone who is experienced & knowledgable in hair loss*) dermatologist in the state of Iowa?

Furthermore, should I go to a Dermatologist or an Endocrinologist to determine the underlying reason for my hair loss?

Thank you!! Appreciate any help that one could provide. LOVE that I have found this site. It's been extremely helpful and comforting to know that I am not alone. :D

[Constantlydevastated]

Have you come across any dermatologists in the Chicago-land area? Also, have you uncovered any updates on the research going on in hair restoration techniques and the potential it has for female hair loss?

[Sammy7]

Hi from your neighbour up north! :)

Is there anyone in Canada-Manitoba?

[mj0920]

Is there any one in the Maryland, DC, and VA area that you can recommend?

[Puppet]

Anyone in Georgia?

Kevin Berman MD., PHD.
Atlanta Center for Dermatologic Diseases
1265 Upper Hembree Rd., Suite 100
Roswell, GA 30376
Phone (770) 751-1133

[Wantresources]

Haven't see her but heard about a Dr Vera Price in San Fran. Supposed to be great.
I am seeing a doc in Scottsdale next week. Will post my report!:)

[Mathilde]

chicago (city)?

[MrsK4Jesus]

Thank you Puppet for your extensive research!!! I would enjoy reading your article when it comes out. In your research, have you found that many women have been diagnosed with Male Pattern Balding? I am new to this site, and have been experiencing hair loss for about 4 years now. I don't ever see lots of hair loss in the tub, sink, etc., it must just not grow back??? I am new to all of this and would appreciate any info you have!! Thanks again!!! kari

[Wantresources]

Puppet,
What a great resource you are! Where will your article appear? I am sure we would all love to read it as well as write the mag's editor to tell them how fabulous it and you:):):) are!

Thanks for sharing your info.....

[jacquelyn herzig]

Try

Richard A Strick M.D.
UCLA Medical Center
UClA Medical Plz Ste 660
Los Angeles, CA 90095
(310) 794-1573

He's also on the advisory council for the Naitonal Alopecia Areata Foundation


Did you like Dr Strick? And if so why?

[teena139]

Thanks Puppet. I have had hair loss since high school and I remember both boys and girls teasing me. For the past 2 yrs I have been using Dermmatch to cover up my shiny scalp :( Now I am 33 and have lost so much hair and self esteem that I have decided to go see a Dermatologist after Thanksgiving. I live in NY and found a "regular" dermatologist Dr. Emmanuel Loucas. Anyone heard of him - he is a Dr on my insurance network and thats how I chose him. Reading about him it doesn't look like he is certified in anything related to hair. Is this normal? Thats when I read about Dr. Shapiro in Puppet's post. I am not sure if I can afford to see him if I have to pay for the visit. Does anyone know if Dr. Shapiro accepts insurance? If he doesn't how much will an initial consultation/evaluation cost? I will try calling his office on Monday to check, but I was hoping someone here can help me. Wish me luck...I'm glad that we can all relate to each other's feelings....thanks for this forum...

[CatCal]

I appreciate that you're sharing referrals here. Does anyone recommend a dermatologist and/or an endocrinologist in Connecticut (or surrounding states)?
Thank you!

[flo]

Where can I find your article, Puppet?

[flo]

Haven't see her but heard about a Dr Vera Price in San Fran. Supposed to be great.
I am seeing a doc in Scottsdale next week. Will post my report!:)

Would you mind letting me know who you saw in Scottsdale? And also how was the experience? Thank you!

[Wantresources]

I saw dr shelly freedman off 101 and raintree. Was not a good experience for me and can't recommend him. He was rude, negative and I left crying. Tried to sell me laser package despite being so rude and I have no interest in working with him but will explore laser elsewhere.

[MiaFlores]

FWIW, Dr. Maria Hordinsky in Minnesota no longer accepts new patients. *sob*

So Im currently in search of a different doctor in the area who will specialize and be helpful. I'll let you know if I find one. Feeling a bit hopeless. :(

[llubpc]

I saw dr shelly freedman off 101 and raintree. Was not a good experience for me and can't recommend him. He was rude, negative and I left crying. Tried to sell me laser package despite being so rude and I have no interest in working with him but will explore laser elsewhere.

Thanks for the confirmation Wantresources! I too visited Dr. Friedman in Scottsdale and was totally unimpressed. No 'bedside' manner at all and rude. :mad:

For those in the Scottsdale area you might try Eric at Evolution or Adam and Eve medspa. I really liked both of them and they offer a complimentary scalp analysis which I found interesting.

Unfortunately I live quite a distance so am unable to commit to the 2x per week plan. Ordered my laser yesterday and will share my experience.

Thanks to all for your stories and support.

[Wantresources]

Oh my Gosh, he was rude to you too?? What is the deal? My hairdresser stopped referring to him......

What laser did you buy? I have the laser comb but the more I learn about laser combs, not sure it does much. Thanks for the other referrals. All of this is making me want to buy the laser and go into a new business!

On a positive note, I just read that the company that manufactured Latisse is working to come up with hair product with similar key ingredients given latissee works great on eyelashes and eyebrows. I have used Revitalash (much cheaper) and I have found that they have a new GROWTH product called NU HAIR. I ordered........and will post info about it.

[llubpc]

I'll have to look up the info on the laser I purchased. It's a helmet type and I 'know' it's going to work for me!

Funny you mentioned going into business as I'm thinking the same thing as I live in a small town and there's no one doing it here. Might as well be the first!

Will get back to you on the laser name.

[Corinne13106]

Hi,

I have a specific question about the doctor you have listed for Lynchburg Va. I was seen by another doctor in this practice and I never heard that a colleague had a specialty in hair loss. Were you in contact with this doctor and what encouraged you to add her name to this list? I wasn't given any significant help through this practice and would have never known there was a specialist available.

Thank you for your help. The list you provided is a great resource.

Corinne

[Corinne13106]

I also have high blood pressure and have been taking medication for it for about 10 years. Currently taking Diovan. (Someone told me that some high blood pressure medication causes hair lost, I ask my regular Doctor but she said that the one I was taking does not) It seems that within the last 6 months, my thick wavvy hair, is now thin, not much body and when I run my fingers through my hair, I can feel that a third of my hair is gone. I'm no longer in denial, so now I'm freaking out. I've been reading different articles on line and came across something that said that if body lacks "iodine" that could case hair lost among other things, it suggested eating eggs, strawberries, seaweed and a number of other foods that contain iodine. I have not heard anyone on this site mention anything about this.

I am seeing a naturopathic doctor who has me taking Norweigen (or Iceland) Sea Kelp tablets. He told me that maintaining a healthy iodine level can kind of jump start my thryroid if my iodine levels are low. I've only been taking them for less than a week so I don't have any results yet.

Also, with your high blood pressure I would suggest maybe seeing an endocrinologist if you don't have a doctor yet (or in addition to your current doctor). I just read today that they can specialize in Cardiovascular Endocrinology. For example:
Cardiovascular Endocrinology
Robert M. Carey, MD, MACP (http://www.healthsystem.virginia.edu/internet/carey/) David A. Harrison III Distinguished Professor of Medicine
Dean, Emeritus, and University Professor
University of Virginia School of Medicine
E-mail: rmc4C@virginia.edu
Clinical Activities: Dr. Carey provides clinical care in general endocrinology, cardiovascular endocrinology, adrenal disease and hypertension. A nationally recognized expert in high blood pressure, Dr. Carey provides a state-of-the-art approach to blood pressure problems, including testing for mutations in genes causing hypertension. Special areas of clinical interest include primary (essential) hypertension, disorders of the renin-angiotensin system, primary aldosteronism, pheochromocytoma, and renal vascular hypertension. Dr. Carey has special expertise in fluid and electrolyte disorders, Cushing’s syndrome and adrenal insufficiency. In addition to high blood pressure, Dr. Carey provides a comprehensive approach to cardiovascular risk, including lipid disorders, the insulin resistance syndrome and diabetes mellitus.
Dr. Carey works with a diabetes educator (Katty Davis) in the care of diabetes, and provides nutritional , exercise and other lifestyle recommendations that reduce cardiovascular risk. Dr. Carey’s clinic meets Wednesdays
Research Interests: Hormonal control of blood pressure, fluid and electrolyte disorders, and kidney function. http://www.healthsystem.virginia.edu/internet/endocrine/clincal_activity.cfm#cardiovascular

[grankat]

I have been loosing hair for 2.5 years. I have seen 14 different doctors. Most recent Dr. Virginia Fiedler in Wilmet Ill. She is professor of Dermatology at chicago U. specializes in hair and scalp disorders. I don't think she diagnosed me correctly. She read my prvoise labs, did the pull test{ do they really have to always do this? can't they take your word for it that your shedding?] looked at my scalp, and made her diagnosis . Alopecia areata. I have no signs of Alopecia areata. She put me on topical steroids, which I have used in the past, no help, and daily clariton, agaain no help after doing this now for over 5 months. Has anyone seen her? I would love to know, and what do you think about her.

[mja]

Hi, I saw Dr. Fiedler when I lived in Chicago about 12-15 years ago. At that time she was affiliated with UIC (Univ of Illinois - Chicago). She wanted to prescribe a treatment that I could not afford at that time, so really I just used regular Rogaine for a while. I thought she was generally professional in her manner, but one time she was a bit abrupt with me, and I took exception to her tone of voice. Also, since I couldn't afford the treatment she wanted me to use, I stopped seeing her.

Then I moved, had a higher salary, and tried to get another appointment with her a few years later. Apparently I was then on her "unfavored" list, because I was told that there was only one day a week she would see me (and I was coming from out of town to do this). So I got to town, was going to be there for several days and had other plans along with the appointment. At the last minute, her office called and told me that they were changing my appointment to a different day... not a day of my choice, and I already had other plans for that day. I just cancelled the whole thing.

So, if you do want to keep seeing her, do not stop or she will never accept you back!

[grankat]

I find her also to be abrupt . I had some questions and she pretty much told me to be quiet. She does seem rather professional and I thought at first, at last I am seeing someone with knowledge, but I do not agree with her diagnosis of alopecia areata. As a matter of fact, I'm pretty positive that is not what I have. I have no signs of that. I don;t think she really ot listens to what I say, nor does she seem to want to answer all my questions . When I phoned her, I was happy she returned my phone call, I told her the steroid was not making any difference at all, she seemed annoyed and said= Well then don't use it if you don't want. I have seen her twice so far, and nothing has changed. NOTHING except my wallet is thinner. My hair loss is diffuse, very heavy shedding starting in May through July, slightly slowing from then to September, and by the time January comes it is very slow shedding untill April, but it never really stops. Then each coming year, again starting in May BAM, huge shedding and ach year is worse then the last.. The hair always grows back around September, November and so come March it is just starting to get good, then May comes and all hell breaks loose. No bald patches, and hair is always growing back. This is not a sign of alopecia areata as far as I read. Also, I get the itchy all year round, but in May it gets bad, along with red inflammed scalp, burn, and all those other wonderful scalp irritations.
I just faxed Dr. Fiedler telling her again, for the third time the steroids {topical} did not change anything since sarting it in August, and saying I do not think I have alopecia areata. I guess I will now be on her @#$%$ list. She has tested my thyroid levels twice and once it was 4.5 and then around 3.4. She said they are fine, but I know anything over 3 is hypothyroidism. And she never test my free t3 or t4 which is important with the tsh. Also my ferritin is now 50 after trying to get it raised from 32 and she said it is fine now, but I keep reading it should be at least 70 re- wilma Bergfeld and others. Lastly, my estrogen is so low- 5.2 but she won't test that. I had it tested by a different doctor so I know what it is. I am 61 and that is low even for my age. . I guess I just think she should be doing more testing to find the cause as the steroid doesn't do squat and I'm panicking with spring just around the corner. I'm sure Dr. Fiedler has helped others, but I don't feel she has helped me at all. She also told me my hair loss in the very front and top front is genetic. I don't agree. it was part of my diffuse loss, and is growing back a lot. Same every year. Genetic hair loss does not do that. But she did not agree with me. I guess I'm just very frustrated at this point, When I faxed her previously she just said if your hair loss is getting worse, come see me. But what I told her was just what I said here. Right now it is slow, but the pattern of loss gets worse every year. I told her this from day one. Maybe I'm not being fair to her, I don't know. I can only tell you my experience so far. Has anyone else had an experience with her?

[grankat]

Hi MJA
Thank you for your post. Can I ask what type of hair loss you have? Do you think her ttreatment that you could not afford at that time, would have worked? Was her diagnosis correct? How did she diagnose it? Sorry for all the questions. Are you finding anything, or anyone that has helped your situation? Did the rogain help and did she advise you to use it. She advised me to use it.

[mja]

Hi, grankat --

Sorry this message is so long...

My hair loss is female pattern hair loss. I've been slowly losing hair for many years -- well, some years faster than others. I actually started noticing it at about age 20 (most other people didn't notice it then, but I did). Now I'm in my mid-50s.

What she wanted me to do was to use a Rogaine concoction that was a lot stronger than what they sell in the stores. It was going to have to be mixed up in the pharmacy. At the time, it would have cost approximately $180/month, if I recall correctly. And because it's considered cosmetic, would not have been covered by my insurance. I could not have afforded it at the time.

As to whether it would have worked, I am not sure. I have tried the Rogaine that is sold in stores (this was over 10 years ago), and it didn't seem to be working. I had more hair at that time than I do now. Also, I am not the most consistent person about remembering to do things that have to be done regularly, so did not always keep up with putting it on twice per day. Because of my habits and inconsistency about things like that, it was not the best option for me to try. Once a day would be o.k., but twice a day... am not so sure.

As for her diagnosis, she did admit that I had female pattern hair loss -- which I already knew, since it had been thinning for over 20 years by that point. But, she also wanted to give me a diagnosis of alopecia areata.... and I didn't think I had that. I do think I have other complicating factors that might be sort of enhancing the hereditary hair loss, but not a. areata.

I'm not sure I remember how she did the diagnosis. I remember her pulling out little clumps of hair but can't remember why at this point.

About the Rogaine, from what I understand it does help some people... and the stronger version she wanted me to use might have even helped me if I'd been able to do that. I think it would be worth trying it... because it might help you.

Another thing she suggested, that I still do, is to use Head & Shoulders and T-Gel for shampooing hair. (Actually, I haven't used the T-Gel lately, but still use H&S.) I am prone to seborrheic dermatitis on my scalp -- basically, dandruff that sticks to your scalp. I have an oily scalp -- although it's getting less oily as I get older-- and wash my hair just about every day. It doesn't sound like you have this problem. The H&S was the primary shampoo, and I was supposed to use the T-Gel once a week... which I did do for a few years. It does keep that problem at bay, and tends to make my hair fluff up a bit more.

I have not found any other doctors or anybody else to help me with this. My regular doctor has helped by prescribing Nizoral shampoo at times. But I haven't kept up with asking for that prescription... need to do that. He also told me to take extra biotin with my vitamins. I do take biotin, but am also hampered by a natural inconsistency in taking them at all sometimes.

[mja]

Oh, I should have mentioned... the seborrheic dermatitis also includes little scabby things on one's scalp, if it is out of control. Mine is usually under control nowadays.

[Wantresources]

:)I'll have to look up the info on the laser I purchased. It's a helmet type and I 'know' it's going to work for me!

Funny you mentioned going into business as I'm thinking the same thing as I live in a small town and there's no one doing it here. Might as well be the first!

Will get back to you on the laser name.


What type of laser did you buy? How is it working for you?? I hope you will let us know! The one I saw is 60k!

[perchenon45]

Any recommendations for a doctor in MA? My primary physician doesn't take me seriously and I need to go to a specialist.

[grankat]

MJA- Well, guess what. I faxed dr Fiedler, telling her I did not think I had Alopecia Areata, asked her if she thinks it might be hormonal. Also told her, that the regimen she had me on since august, has not changed or helped at all. I told her this about 2 months ago, and she just told me to continue . Well I did continue, with no results, so I again told her it did not help and I am panicky about this coming spring summer when I start shedding horribly. I just got a letter in the mail from her yesterday, telling me to stop he regimen {which was topical steroids and clariton besides vitamins which I had been on anyway} And to see another doctor. I was so much hoping she would explore other avenues as to my hair loss, but that is not what happened. So I guess I am back to square one. I spent a lot of money seeing Fiedler as my insurance does not cover 1 penny for her. And now to find another specialist in hair loss is going to cost me a lot more. I think any doctor who gives a wrong diagnosis, or can't help you in any way, they should give you a refund. Wouldn't that change the way things are going now. Or at least they should tell you up front, they may not be able to help you at all. Maybe that's just a given? I'm just very dissapointed to say the least. But if a treatment a doctor has prescribed is not working, shouldn't they try something else instead of telling you to see another doctor? I'm sorry for rambling, I'm just really upset and getting down now.

[mja]

Well, grankat -- I'm sorry to hear that, but not surprised at her response. I know it must be disturbing to be treated that way. Surely there is somebody else in the Chicago area who would specialize in this as well.

[grankat]

I keep hearing the name Heather Wickless. has anyone reading this seen her? Any comments?
Thanks, kathy.

[mja]

You might have seen her page at Northwestern. It's very brief, but has a photo of her: http://www.feinberg.northwestern.edu/depts/dermatology/faculty/clinical/wickless.html

[keys]

Hi...I have an appointment at Northwestern Hospital's (Chicago) hair loss clinic on Feb 19th. My appointment is with Dr. Maria Colavincenzo who is a dermatologist specializing in hair loss. (She and Dr. Wickless are colleagues.)

http://www.feinberg.northwestern.edu/depts/dermatology/faculty/clinical/colavincenzo.html

She was also widely quoted recently in an article about hair loss in women. Here is one of the placements.
http://www.timesreporter.com/lifestyles/x1377000675/Womens-health-The-root-of-female-hair-loss

There was a seven week wait to get into see her, so I'm hoping that I can get some answers.

[mja]

Thanks for posting this. I just found out that Dr. Wickless has left Northwestern (and also I think she has left the Chicago area). So in the Chicago area, Dr. Colavincenzo would be another one to try.

[grankat]

Keys,, PLEASE let me know how your appointment goes. Thank you for giving me a heads up. I hope you find an answer. Kathy

[keys]

Hi everyone. Just a quick word to say that I had my initial appointment with Dr. Colavincenzo. I was first seen by her resident who asked questions, took down my history, etc.

Unlike some of the other posts I have read here, both of these physicians were kind, caring, compassionate and knowledgeable. I told them about the research that I had done on my situation and what I thought I had and what the trigger was. (AGA that has now manifested itself because of the TE.) My theory is that my early AGA used to be well hidden because of the quantity of long thick hair that I had. (The thin areas were always camouflaged by the rest of the thick hair.)

Now that something (my theory is stress) has triggered the TE and significant thinning has occured, you can really see the AGA. Make sense?

In addition to blood being drawn to run all of the usual tests to rule out thyroid, iron deficiency, etc....they suggested that I use men's Rogaine 5% foam to prevent the anagen hairs from moving into the telogen phase and to see if it could help the AGA.

Also, they recommended a multivitamin, B complex, biotin (2.5 to 5 mg per day) and Omega 3s.

Blood tests should be back midweek and on March 2nd I also have an appointment with an endocrinolgist to review the bloodwork and also to get his take on the hormonal side of things. (I informed the doctors of this and they supportive of my getting another specialist involved.)

The other thing is...I have spent a lot of time talking to friends about the situation and also investigating wigs. I'm trying to be more positive and less tearful.

I'm not quite at the wig stage now, but if the TE continues for another month, that will most likely change. (I was told that TE typically runs its course in about three months, dependant on finding/stopping the original trigger.)

I was also told that with TE, sometimes you never discover what the trigger was.

Anyway, I just wanted to share with the group that there are knowledgeable, compassionate doctors out there. I felt listened to, my research was acknowledged and validated and I was treated with hope and dignity.

Regardless of what path my own personal situation takes, I know I am not alone and I am working hard to make sure my hair no longer defines me.

Hope this helps.

[roxygirl_40]

Hi Keys,
I'm 26 and from the Northwest Indiana area and have had a recent flare up of extreme hair loss. It has only happened one time before, when I was 16. At that time I had thick, amazing hair...it did re-grow thankfully but it came back extremely fine and was never the same. I recently discovered several bald spots and freaked out and cut about 12 inches off my hair, which was pretty hard to do. I've taken vitamins and tried just about everything, including stopping straightening and blow drying etc...I went to a local dermatologist and wasn't impressed so I made an appointment with Dr. Colavincenzo, the soonest I could see her is May, which I was expecting. I have had several blood labs done, which all have been deemed "normal". No one else in my family has experienced hair loss, so it's somewhat of a mystery. I just wanted to thank you for your input and experience sharing on here. Like you, I have cried and stessed and asked myself why it has to happen to me. I have just recently accepted that there's NOTHING I can do to change it, if it's going to fall out I'm not going to put faith and stock into a bottle of rogaine or cortisone shots. I am also deeply researching lace wigs right now in case it comes to the point that I need one down the road. The girls I have talked to and seen photos of personally look amazing, I never would have guessed they were wearing a wig. So I think the best thing we can do is keep a positive attitude no alternative is perfect but at least we have options. and might I add most of those girls have better hair than I EVER did on my best hair day! :)

[hairgal]

Puppet--thank you for posting that list---it's awesome and should be helpful to many. I have my own list that I have created based on physicians who are publishing and researching in this field and many of those physicans are on mine. The physicians on that list are ones who are often (currently) presenting at conferences, getting research dollars, and being published in articles. Thanks again for helping many out! (P.s. for those in Australia--Rodney Sinclair is a really good one---recently recieved a huge grant to help build a hairloss research center (think it will be opening in 2011)). Also, Paradi Mirmirani at Kaiser Permanente in California should be added to the list (studied under Vera Price). Of course, these are just my opinions, but I hope others find them helpful!

[hairgal]

Thanks for posting this. I just found out that Dr. Wickless has left Northwestern (and also I think she has left the Chicago area). So in the Chicago area, Dr. Colavincenzo would be another one to try.


It looks like she may have moved to Durango, Co. Yay to those living in Co., sad for those living in Chicago:(.

http://www.aocd.org/members/2010-midyear-brochure.pdf

[hairgal]

Hi from your neighbour up north! :)

Is there anyone in Canada-Manitoba?

Far away, but there's some very well known doctors/researchers over at the University of British Columbia in Vancouver (looks pretty from the Olympics:). They have a hair loss clinic!

[Lana]

Looking for a good derm who specializes in hair loss...

[barkindg52]

:)Puppet--thank you for posting that list---it's awesome and should be helpful to many. I have my own list that I have created based on physicians who are publishing and researching in this field and many of those physicans are on mine. The physicians on that list are ones who are often (currently) presenting at conferences, getting research dollars, and being published in articles. Thanks again for helping many out! (P.s. for those in Australia--Rodney Sinclair is a really good one---recently recieved a huge grant to help build a hairloss research center (think it will be opening in 2011)). Also, Paradi Mirmirani at Kaiser Permanente in California should be added to the list (studied under Vera Price). Of course, these are just my opinions, but I hope others find them helpful!


Is there a specialist in San Diego, Ca?

[seashore]

I came across this site and have been encouraged by the information and the care that members seem to show and share with each other. I'm in need of finding a Dermatologist, Acupuncturist, really anyone that I can go to in South Florida, I live in Broward county (Fort Lauderdale) and work in Dade County (Miami). I just turned 52 last week and went through a bad divorce two years ago, and I think I've been stressing for the last 5 years. I started noticing some hair loss about 4 years ago in the front of my head, if I pulled my bangs back I could see my scalp. But I attributed to my stress and I've been in denial. I also have high blood pressure and have been taking medication for it for about 10 years. Currently taking Diovan. (Someone told me that some high blood pressure medication causes hair lost, I ask my regular Doctor but she said that the one I was taking does not) It seems that within the last 6 months, my thick wavvy hair, is now thin, not much body and when I run my fingers through my hair, I can feel that a third of my hair is gone. I'm no longer in denial, so now I'm freaking out. I've been reading different articles on line and came across something that said that if body lacks "iodine" that could case hair lost among other things, it suggested eating eggs, strawberries, seaweed and a number of other foods that contain iodine. I have not heard anyone on this site mention anything about this. I'm trying to relax and keep myself from stressing, but everytime I pass a mirror or run my fingers through my hair, it all comes back again. My parents who are now 86 and 81 both have thining hair, so I'm hoping it's not hereditary. I just want to get to the bottom of this and find out if its a dificiency, hereditary, stress or something else. I hope someone can give me some directions or advise. Thank you

I noticed you posted a similar request to mine. I'm also in the Boca/Ft. Lauderdale area. Did you ever get a referral?

[Walt5530]

Does anyone have a Michigan doctor that they can recommend? I live in the metro Detroit area. My hair loss has slowed but my scalp shows pretty well through the front of my hair. My grandmother had extremely thin hair and I don't want to be like that. I'm only 31. I would appreciate any help that I could get. THANKS!

[barkindg52]

Any specialist in San Diego, California?

[toostooshy]

Hi everyone,

I too am struggling with hair loss and my current doctors all think I'm crazy. Does anyone know of a doctor in the Tampa FL area who specializes in hair loss?

[dalia]

Have any of you been treated by Dr. Richard Strick in Los Angeles?

[ukchinaheather]

I appreciate that you're sharing referrals here. Does anyone recommend a dermatologist and/or an endocrinologist in Connecticut (or surrounding states)?
Thank you!


Hey, did you ever find anyone in CT? I have been seeing Dr. Paula Bevilacqua in Cheshire and am VERY disappointed. Any ideas?

Thanks!

[quaker]

I'm really having a hard time finding Help in the Medical field..Anyone know of any good Referrals in San Diego??( PUPPET--YOU SEEM TO BE A WEALTH OF KNOWLEDGE ON THIS TOPIC!! Need your help!)
I am Struggling Emotionally from my Continued Hair Loss--at an alarming rate...

[Lisah]

Hey, sorry I know i'm in the wrong area but if someone can please let me know how the girl( ForeveBlue) is she o.k.?? I don't know how to post but have been a member for several years and I'm just worried her last post sounded very upsetting...... Please let me know if she is o.k. Been there myself and unserstand what she is feeling..... Thank you, Lisah:confused::confused::confused:

[lillie1004]

I live in Sherman Texas (which is in extreme north Texas )but am willing to drive to Dallas or southern Oklahoma for a doctor if he is good.

[Luc30]

I found a great dermatologist in Washington D.C. It's somewhat metro accessible (Foggy Bottom- I believe). But it's on M Street in Georgetown. If you're from this area you may have an idea of what I'm talking about.

Her name is Dr. Cheryl Burgess at the Center for Dermatology. Link to her site is here: http://www.ctr4dermatology.com/dr-cheryl-m-burgess

She was great and so was her Physician Assistant. From her, I basically narrowed down my hair loss issue to thyroid problems. She dismissed AGA based on the pattern of my hair loss, my age, and my family history. Tested me (on the spot blood take) for thyroid and hormones (to rule out PCOS - which was ruled out) and basically gave me kind advice and much MUCH needed diagnosis.

I can't recommend her enough. She took her time with me, and I've scheduled a follow up to gauge the progress of my hair issues. One thing to note is that unlike many doctors she did not scoff at my diagnosis (from another doctor) of Adrenal Fatigue. If you have Adrenal Fatigue, Thyroid medication does not work adequately - resulting in rapid hair loss (which is what happened to me).

Office visits are not cheap, and she does not take insurance (only accepts them for lab work). So it's about $180 per visit, but it was totally worth it.

[olga]

I live in No. NJ I could really use a good endo. that specializes in PCOS. I can't afford Dr. Redmond. If there is someone else I would greatly appreciate the info.

[kashfiay]

I would really appreciate it if you could provide any information on someone practicing in northern virginia

[advocat]

I live in No. NJ I could really use a good endo. that specializes in PCOS. I can't afford Dr. Redmond. If there is someone else I would greatly appreciate the info.
For general endocrinology Dr Caryn Borger in Florham park is a good DR I see
diagnosed with PCOS, prediabetic, and a few other goodies. She does not specialize in hair loss aspect.
advocat

[leesy403]

George Cotsarelis, M.D.
University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine

I tried calling for an appointment yesterday and this doc is not taking any new patients. I asked if anyone else in the practice dealt with female hair loss and the receptionist said no...back to square one

[Supermama]

I noticed Dr. Bergman at the Cleveland Clinic was listed in your article. Very unfortunately, she is not taking new patients. But I have had 2 appointments so far with Dr. Zimmerman, an endo, also at the Cleveland Clinic. I don't know if his treatment is going to help me yet, but he does have a great bedside manner and really took his time thinking about my case.

[nimo33]

Can anyone give any ratings for Philip Kingsley hair clinic in NYC? I called but they don't do scalp analysis or hair analysis, just look under the microscope. I have feeling they just try to sell their products but i may be wrong.
Also what about Dr. Jerry Shapiro at NYU Medical Center...his ratings don't seem too high. I am willing to travel and trying to get appt with phila doctor george cotsarelis although not easy.....

[emac]

I have seen Dr. Lady Dy, affiliated with Rush Medical Center in Chicago. Had the pull test and biopsy I also have Seborrheic dermatitis and telogen effluvium. Prescribed Ketoconazole to use every day for 2 weeks. According to the pharmacy this is rather strong to be using every day. The itchy scalp is the thing that drives me crazy. This is the second shampoo that has been prescribed, it seems if one shampoo does not work then a second is prescribed.

Has anyone found the product that stops the itching?

[teena139]

Been looking for a good dermatologist in NYC - Dr. Shapiro has bad reviews
http://www.ratemds.com/doctor-ratings/107976/Dr-Jerry-Shapiro-Vancouver-BC.html
It states Vancouver - but the medical credentials match so I'm guessing its the same person..anyone have any personal experience to share about him? Much appreciated..thanks.

[midnite113]

Do U know of any located in New Jersey ? And why would I look at Dermatologists rather than Endocrinologists ? Isn't hair loss an internal problem ?

[Tracy C]

Treating hair loss often requires treatment from the inside out as well as the outside in. It is more difficult to determine the cause of hair loss in a female patient than it is in a male patient. So it is probably a good idea to work with both an endocrinologist and a dermatologist who specializes in treating hair loss to determine the cause.

Bernstein Medical has a clinic in New Jersey as well as New York.

[midnite113]

Thanks Tracy. I'll have to look Bernstein up & see if it's anywhere near me. I can't travel very far.