Hair Loss Glossary | Transitions Hair Solutions

Alopecia

A general term meaning hair loss. It does not identify the cause by itself.

Alopecia areata

An autoimmune form of hair loss that often begins with smooth, round or oval patches. Diagnosis and treatment belong with a qualified medical professional.

Androgenetic alopecia

Hereditary pattern hair loss. It commonly appears as a receding hairline or crown thinning in men and progressive thinning across the top of the scalp in women.

Anagen

The active growth phase of the hair cycle.

Base

The foundation material of a wig, topper or hair system to which hair is attached.

Bonding

A general term for attaching a hair system with adhesive or a related method.

Catagen

A short transition phase between active growth and the resting phase.

CCCA

Central centrifugal cicatricial alopecia is a scarring form of hair loss that typically begins near the crown and needs medical evaluation.

Density

The amount of hair in a given area. Matching density matters when blending a topper or hair system with existing hair.

Diffuse thinning

Hair thinning spread across a wider area rather than one distinct bald patch.

Follicle

The structure in the skin from which a hair grows.

Hair system

A customized or stock non-surgical hair replacement designed to cover partial or extensive hair loss.

Human hair

Hair used in wigs and systems that can offer natural movement and styling flexibility. Quality and processing vary.

Lace front

A fine lace material at the front of some wigs and systems designed to create a less visible hairline edge.

Medical hair loss

Hair loss related to a disease, medication, treatment or other health factor. Cosmetic support can help with appearance but does not diagnose or treat the underlying cause.

Miniaturization

Progressive production of finer, shorter hairs from affected follicles, commonly discussed in pattern hair loss.

Minoxidil

An FDA-approved medication for certain forms of pattern hair loss. Suitability, directions and side effects should be discussed with a healthcare professional or pharmacist.

Monofilament

A fine mesh material used in some wigs and toppers that can allow individual hairs to be tied into the base.

Non-surgical hair replacement

Wigs, toppers, partial systems or full systems used to create coverage without hair-transplant surgery.

Poly / skin base

A thin polymer base used in some hair systems that can offer a close-to-scalp appearance and specific attachment options.

Remy hair

Human hair processed so the cuticles generally remain aligned in the same direction, which can help reduce tangling.

Scalp prosthesis

A specialized hair replacement designed to cover areas of hair loss and resemble the appearance of a natural scalp and hair.

Scarring alopecia

A group of disorders in which inflammation damages follicles and can cause permanent hair loss. Early medical evaluation is important.

Synthetic hair

Manufactured fiber used in wigs and hairpieces. Modern fibers can be realistic and easy to care for, but heat and styling limits vary.

Telogen

The resting phase of the hair cycle before the hair sheds and the follicle returns toward a new growth phase.

Telogen effluvium

Excessive shedding that can occur after a significant physical or emotional stressor, illness, surgery, childbirth or other trigger.

Topper

A partial hairpiece designed to add coverage or density to a specific area while blending with existing hair.

Traction alopecia

Hair loss caused by repeated pulling or tension on the hair. Continuing the stress can eventually lead to permanent loss.

Trichology

The study of hair and scalp. Services called trichology vary by provider; a trichologist is not automatically a physician or dermatologist.

Ventilation

The technique used to attach individual hairs or groups of hairs to a base material, influencing direction and movement.

Wig

A full-head hair covering made with human hair, synthetic fiber or a blend.

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