Man and woman examining their scalp and hair in a vanity mirror, representing early signs of thinning and the need for scalp evaluation or hair loss solutions.

Hair Loss: Causes, Symptoms & Solutions for Women and Men in Cleveland

Hair loss doesn’t look the same for everyone. Some people notice more shedding in the shower. Others see their part widening or the crown starting to look sparse. For many, the scalp begins to feel oily, itchy, tight, or just “off.”

At The Hair & Scalp Specialists, we help you understand why your hair or scalp is changing and what to do next. For some, the right first step is a ScalpCheck® evaluation to correct an underlying scalp issue. For others, it is time for a Hair Solution Consultation to explore toppers, wigs, or hair replacement systems.

This page is designed to help you quickly see which path fits your situation and learn more about what may be causing your hair loss.


Which Situation Feels Most Like You?


Icon representing correcting scalp conditions and early hair loss.

“My scalp doesn’t feel right, and/or my hair is shedding more.”

You may be noticing one or more of the following:

  • Itching, tightness, or burning on the scalp
  • Flakes or oily buildup
  • Hair coming out in the brush, sink, or shower
  • Loss of volume but not obvious bare spots
  • A general feeling that your scalp is out of balance

In this case, a ScalpCheck® evaluation is usually the best first step. ScalpCheck® uses microscopic imaging and trichology principles to assess your scalp environment and uncover issues that are easy to miss with the naked eye.

During ScalpCheck®, we look at:

  • Oil levels and congestion around the follicles
  • Buildup from products, dry shampoo, or hard water
  • Hydration and scalp barrier function
  • Early thinning patterns and density changes
  • Signs of inflammation or irritation
  • How your current routine may be helping or hurting

Many people who think they are “just thinning” actually have correctable scalp issues contributing to the problem.

Book a ScalpCheck® Evaluation


Icon symbolizing restoring lost hair with custom hair replacement solutions.

“I am seeing more scalp than hair and need more hair coverage.”

You may be noticing:

  • A widening part that is difficult to disguise
  • Thinning at the crown or visible scalp in photos
  • Overall reduced density through the top or sides
  • Areas that look sparse or shiny under light
  • Hair that no longer styles the way it used to

If you are starting to see more scalp than hair, a Hair Solution Consultation is the right next step. This is where we focus on coverage, confidence, and realistic options that fit your pattern of loss and your lifestyle.

During a Hair Solution Consultation, we may explore:

  • Custom hair toppers for women
  • Wigs and cranial prosthetics for medical hair loss
  • Men’s hair replacement systems and solutions
  • Advanced options such as CRLAB CNC prosthetics
  • Color, length, density, and how you like to wear your hair
  • Attachment methods and maintenance that match your day-to-day life

Our goal is to help you look like yourself again in a way that feels natural, secure, and manageable.

Book a Hair Solution Consultation


Why Hair Loss Happens

Hair loss is almost never caused by a single factor. In most cases, several triggers are working together. That is why a thorough evaluation matters so much more than guessing or buying one more product.

Common Contributors to Thinning and Hair Loss

  • Genetics and pattern thinning: Family history can influence how and where hair thins over time.
  • Scalp imbalances: Excess oil, buildup, inflammation, dandruff, or an unhealthy scalp environment can interfere with healthy growth.
  • Hormonal shifts: Pregnancy, postpartum changes, perimenopause, menopause, and other hormonal transitions can all impact the hair cycle.
  • Stress and cortisol: Physical or emotional stress can push more follicles into the shedding phase several weeks after an event.
  • Medical factors: Thyroid imbalance, autoimmune conditions, chemotherapy, and other medical issues can affect density and quality.
  • Medications: Some prescriptions list hair loss or shedding as a potential side effect.
  • Nutritional factors: Inadequate protein, iron, or other nutrients can play a role in overall hair quality.
  • Styling and traction: Tight hairstyles, frequent heat, or chemical services may weaken the hair over time.

Most people are dealing with a combination of these factors. That is why we pay attention not just to the hair, but to the scalp environment, your story, and your day-to-day routine.


Hair loss specialist consulting with a client during a private evaluation, discussing concerns and next steps for treatment.
How The Hair & Scalp Specialists Approach Hair Loss

We do not treat hair loss as a one-size-fits-all problem. Instead, we focus on three key questions:

  • Is this primarily a scalp issue that is affecting growth?
  • Is this primarily a pattern or medical hair loss issue that requires coverage?
  • Or is it a combination of both?

Every guest we see receives:

  • A private, one-on-one consultation in a dedicated room
  • Licensed cosmetologists and specialists trained specifically in thinning hair and scalp conditions
  • A review of your history, lifestyle, stress, and hair care routine
  • Clear explanations and realistic expectations
  • Solutions designed for your level of thinning, not someone else’s

Our work is focused solely on hair loss, scalp health, and hair replacement solutions—not general salon services. This allows us to give each client the time, privacy, and attention their situation deserves.


Before and after results showing a woman with thinning hair transformed with fuller coverage using a custom hair topper.
Before and after results showing a man with male pattern hair loss transformed with fuller, natural-looking hair after a custom non-surgical hair replacement solution.

Solutions for Women, Men, and Medical Hair Loss

Women’s Hair Loss Solutions

Women often notice diffuse thinning, a widening part, or reduced fullness through the top and crown. Many also experience hair changes during pregnancy, postpartum, or menopause. Our Women’s Hair Loss Solutions include:

  • Custom-designed hair toppers
  • Medical wigs and cranial prosthetics
  • Scalp therapies to support hair quality where growth is still active
  • Options for both temporary wear and long-term attachment

Men’s Hair Loss Solutions

Men typically see hairline recession, crown thinning, or more advanced pattern loss. Our Men’s Hair Loss Solutions focus on:

  • Hair replacement systems designed for natural appearance and active lifestyles
  • Secure attachment methods matched to work, sports, and daily activities
  • Customized density, hairline design, and styling preferences

Medical Hair Loss Solutions

For clients experiencing medical hair loss, such as alopecia, chemotherapy-related loss, or other medical conditions, we provide:

  • Private, supportive consultations
  • Custom cranial prosthetics and medical-grade wigs
  • Design options for temporary or longer-term wear
  • Guidance on timing around treatments and regrowth

You can learn more on our dedicated Medical Hair Loss Solutions page.


Trichologist examining a woman’s scalp in a clinic setting with text overlay reading: Hair Loss Solutions & Scalp Care in Cleveland | Since 1976.
Do You Need a Trichologist or a Dermatologist?

We are often asked whether someone should start with a trichology-focused center or go straight to a medical doctor. A simple guideline can help.

When a Trichology-Based Evaluation Is a Good First Step

Consider beginning with a trichology-focused evaluation such as ScalpCheck® if you are experiencing:

  • Increased shedding or early-stage thinning
  • Flaking, oiliness, or dryness on the scalp
  • Itching, tightness, or general discomfort
  • Changes in hair quality, strength, or behavior
  • Scalp buildup from products, dry shampoo, or hard water

When You Should See a Dermatologist

A dermatologist (MD) is important if you notice:

  • Open sores, bleeding, or signs of infection
  • Scarring or shiny patches with no visible follicles
  • Severe inflammation or painful lesions
  • Suspected autoimmune conditions
  • Rashes or symptoms extending beyond the scalp

We frequently collaborate with dermatologists and may refer you for medical testing or prescription treatment if we see signs that require a physician’s care.


Hair Loss & Scalp Care: Common Questions

Do I need ScalpCheck® or a Hair Solution Consultation?

As a general rule, if your scalp feels wrong with symptoms such as itching, flaking, tightness, oiliness, or discomfort, or you are noticing early shedding and subtle thinning, a ScalpCheck® evaluation is usually the right starting point. If you are seeing more scalp than hair and struggling with coverage, a Hair Solution Consultation is typically more appropriate.

Can scalp treatments really make a difference?

When scalp imbalances like excess oil, buildup, or chronic irritation are corrected, many clients experience an improvement in comfort, hair quality, and shedding patterns. While not every situation can be fully reversed, improving the scalp environment often supports healthier hair where follicles are still active.

Are your consultations private?

Yes. All consultations and services are performed in private rooms with licensed professionals. The center is designed specifically for guests experiencing thinning hair, hair loss, or scalp issues, rather than general walk-in salon traffic.

Do you work with both women and men?

Yes. We work with both women and men and understand that their hair loss patterns and emotional experiences can be very different. Solutions and recommendations are tailored to each individual based on their specific situation, goals, and lifestyle.

What if I am not sure which path is right for me?

You do not need to have everything figured out before you reach out. During an initial conversation or visit, we can help determine whether a ScalpCheck® evaluation, a Hair Solution Consultation, or a combination of both is the best next step for your hair and scalp concerns.


Ready to Take the Next Step?

You do not have to keep guessing about your hair or scalp. Whether you are in the early stages of thinning or dealing with more advanced hair loss, there is a clear path forward.

  • If your scalp does not feel right and you are noticing shedding or early thinning, consider beginning with a ScalpCheck® evaluation.

Book a ScalpCheck® Evaluation

  • If you are seeing more scalp than hair and need coverage, fullness, or a custom piece, schedule a Hair Solution Consultation.

Book a Hair Solution Consultation

  • If you are unsure where to start, you can answer a few quick questions and be guided to the best next step.

Not Sure? Answer 3 Quick Questions

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