Noticing hair thinning on just one side of your head can feel strange — like an imbalance you can’t quite ignore. It’s not the kind of thing you expect until you’re staring at it, wondering what’s going on and what can be done to fix it. Whether it’s subtle or more obvious, uneven hair thinning raises questions that deserve clear answers and real solutions.
Interested in discovering more? Jae Pak MD Medical has you covered. Keep reading to learn about what might cause hair thinning on one side, how to spot the early signs, and, most importantly, the treatments that actually work.
Hair thinning happens when the amount of hair you’re shedding starts to outweigh the hair you’re growing back. Over time, this can leave your hair looking less dense, with more scalp peeking through than you’d like. It’s not the same as losing hair in clumps or developing bald patches — it’s more of a gradual decrease in volume.
You now know what hair thinning is, but what does it actually look like? The signs can vary from person to person, but there are some common things to watch for.
No two people experience hair thinning in exactly the same way, so your signs might look a little different. If something doesn’t feel right, consulting a dermatologist or hair restoration specialist is a good step toward understanding your options.
We’ve talked about what hair thinning looks like and how to spot it, but thinning hair doesn’t always follow a predictable pattern. Sometimes, it shows up unevenly, affecting just one side of your head. This kind of asymmetrical hair loss can happen for a variety of reasons, from lifestyle habits to underlying medical conditions.
Let’s break it down.
One of the most common causes of uneven hair thinning is traction alopecia. This form of hair loss happens when hairstyles like tight ponytails, braids, or buns create too much tension on the hair follicles.
Over time, this tension damages the follicles, leading to thinning or bald patches. If you frequently use curling irons or wear heavy extensions, the risk is even higher. The good news? Adjusting your hair care routine can help prevent further hair loss.
Androgenetic alopecia, also known as male pattern baldness or female pattern hair loss, can sometimes appear more pronounced on one side. This type of hair loss is determined by your family history and affects the hair follicles, causing them to shrink and produce thinner, weaker strands.
While it’s typically more symmetrical, it’s not uncommon for one side to show more noticeable hair loss, especially in the early stages.
Alopecia areata is an autoimmune disease where the immune system mistakenly attacks hair follicles. This can lead to patchy hair loss that may start on one side of the scalp. While it’s not fully understood why alopecia areata affects certain areas more than others, the result can be uneven, unpredictable bald spots that vary in size and location.
Telogen effluvium is a temporary form of hair loss triggered by stress, illness, or significant life changes, such as menopause. It occurs when a larger-than-normal amount of hair enters the shedding phase. Though it often affects the whole scalp, the thinning may be more noticeable on one side, especially if you tend to sleep on that side or favor it when styling your hair.
Injuries, burns, or scarring from previous surgeries can damage hair follicles permanently, leading to hair thinning or bald patches in specific areas. Even mild trauma, like frequent rubbing or scratching, can weaken the follicles over time. If you’ve had an accident or wear tight-fitting hats, this could explain thinning on one side.
Certain medical conditions, like thyroid disease or autoimmune disorders, can contribute to hair thinning that appears more severe on one side. Conditions such as trichotillomania — a compulsive hair-pulling disorder — can also create uneven thinning. Additionally, patchy hair loss might result from localized infections or irritation of the scalp.
Everyday habits can also play a big role. If you frequently sleep on one side or comb your hair more aggressively on one side, you could be unknowingly contributing to thinning in that area. Even external factors like sun exposure or heat damage from styling tools can create noticeable differences over time.
If you’re dealing with thinning hair on one side of your head, don’t panic — there are solutions to help you address it effectively. From proven medications to advanced treatments, there’s a range of options to target thinning and promote hair regrowth.
Let’s walk through the most effective treatments available today.
For significant thinning or bald patches, a hair transplant is often the most effective long-term solution. Dr. Jae Pak specializes in advanced techniques like FUT, FUE, and Long Hair FUE, which allow for natural and permanent results.
These procedures involve moving healthy hair from areas with thicker growth to the thinning or balding areas, restoring density where it’s needed most. Because the transplanted hair is your own, it grows just like the rest of your hair and lasts a lifetime.
Minoxidil is one of the most widely recognized treatments for hair thinning and hair loss. Applied directly to the scalp, this FDA-approved solution works by supporting blood flow to the affected area and stimulating hair follicles to support hair regrowth.
It’s important to remember that results can vary. Some people notice thicker, healthier hair with consistent use over several months. However, be aware of potential side effects like dryness or irritation, and consult a healthcare provider before starting.
Finasteride is a prescription medication commonly used to treat male pattern hair loss by blocking the hormone DHT, which can shrink hair follicles and slow hair growth. Taken orally, it’s particularly effective at maintaining existing hair, though it’s not designed to regrow hair in areas where it’s already gone. As with any medical treatment, it’s important to discuss potential side effects with a professional before deciding if this is right for you.
At Jae Pak MD Medical, we offer an innovative alternative to traditional PRP treatments: PRS (Protein Rich Support with Wharton’s Jelly). Unlike PRP, which uses your own blood, PRS is derived from umbilical cord stem cells donated by consenting mothers.
This treatment is rich in essential nutrients like glycosaminoglycans, hyaluronic acid, and peptides, all of which help repair tissue and stimulate new hair growth. Administered through scalp injections or as part of a hair transplant procedure, PRS has shown promising results in quicker recovery times and earlier hair growth. It’s a groundbreaking option for those looking for a safe, science-backed way to address thinning hair and regenerate healthy hair follicles.
Hair thinning on one side of the head might feel unsettling, but understanding the common causes of hair loss and exploring effective treatments can make a difference. Whether it’s addressing underlying conditions, making adjustments to your hair care routine, or choosing advanced solutions like PRS or hair transplants, there are real options to help you regain confidence and a fuller head of hair.
At Jae Pak MD Medical, we combine artistry, innovation, and science to offer treatments tailored to your specific needs. From advanced procedures like Protein Rich Support to personalized hair transplant techniques, Dr. Jae Pak delivers results that speak for themselves. If you’re ready to take the next step in tackling uneven hair thinning, we’re here to guide you with expert care and proven solutions.
Your journey to healthier, thicker hair starts here.
Sources:
Minoxidil (Rogaine): Hair Loss Treatment | Cleveland Clinic
Androgenetic alopecia | MedlinePlus.gov
Hair loss: Signs and symptoms | American Academy of Dermatology
Speak with Jae Pak, M.D. today!
Request a Consultation