NEIL SADICK, MD: When you're seeking medical help, always look to a medical expert such as your physician.If you have a dermatologist, dermatologists are really experts in the field of hair disorders, so if you have a dermatologist, he is the person I would consult first. If you don't, you can consult your family physician, and he can make the appropriate referral to a dermatologist who he feels is expert in this particular area.
DAVID R. MARKS, MD: But not all dermatologists are hair loss experts, are they?
MICHAEL REED, MD: All dermatologists are trained in the general knowledge and treatment of hair loss disorders, but not all dermatologists choose to do this, because it's a very important area and people are very upset.It takes a long time to deal with these consultations, so a dermatologist will often refer to a dermatologist specialist. There are some of us in the area who have sort of a subspecialty in hair and scalp disorders, in medical and/or surgical treatment.
DAVID R. MARKS, MD: Does it make a difference if the person is a man or a woman? Not the doctor, the person suffering from hair loss.
NEIL SADICK, MD: Not really.Most dermatologists who are trained and have some expertise in this area usually deal both with men and women.
DAVID R. MARKS, MD: Some patients may turn to over-the-counter products or products that they hear advertised on the radio or television. Is this harmful? Is this going to do anything bad, or is it just a waste of time?
