Understanding Alopecia: Types, Causes and Choosing the Right Wig

Alopecia is a general term for hair loss, but it can appear in very different ways. For some people it means gradual thinning, while others experience patches of hair loss or lose most or all of the hair on their scalp.

Understanding the type and extent of your hair loss can help you make a more informed decision about whether a hairpiece, half wig or full wig is right for you.

The main forms of alopecia include:

• Alopecia areata-typically causes sudden patches of hair loss
• Alopecia totalis-causes complete loss of scalp hair
• Alopecia universalis-affects hair across the scalp and body
• Androgenetic alopecia-gradual male or female pattern hair loss
• Traction alopecia-associated with repeated tension on the hair

The best wig solution depends on the extent of hair loss. Partial hair loss may be suited to a hairpiece or half wig, while extensive or complete hair loss often requires a full wig.

WHAT IS ALOPECIA?

Alopecia simply means hair loss. It is not one single condition and can have several different causes.

Some forms are temporary, while others may be long-term. Hair loss can also develop gradually or appear suddenly, so obtaining a professional diagnosis from a doctor or dermatologist is important, particularly when the cause is unclear.

Alopecia areata, for example, is an autoimmune condition in which the immune system mistakenly attacks hair follicles. The follicles are usually not permanently destroyed, which means regrowth can occur, although the course of the condition can be unpredictable.

Mandeville London has worked with clients experiencing many different forms of hair loss for more than 50 years. Explore Mandeville's wigs for alopecia

ALOPECIA AREATA

Alopecia areata usually begins with one or more round or oval patches of hair loss. It may affect the scalp, but eyebrows, eyelashes and other areas of the body can also be affected.

The condition can occur at any age and is not contagious. Hair may regrow, although some people experience repeated episodes of hair loss and regrowth.

Where the hair loss is limited to one or several areas, a full wig may not always be necessary. A bespoke hairpiece or partial wig can sometimes provide enough coverage while blending with your remaining hair.

ALOPECIA TOTALIS AND UNIVERSALIS

Alopecia totalis describes complete loss of hair from the scalp.

Alopecia universalis is a more extensive form in which hair is lost from the scalp and other areas of the body.

With extensive scalp hair loss, a full wig will usually provide the most complete solution.

Mandeville's Made to Measure wigs can be individually tailored to your head shape, hairline, colour, length, texture, density and preferred style. This level of personalisation can be especially valuable for people wearing a wig every day.

ANDROGENETIC ALOPECIA

Androgenetic alopecia, often referred to as male or female pattern hair loss, usually develops gradually rather than appearing suddenly.

For women, it often presents as increasing thinning or reduced density rather than complete hair loss.

Where sufficient natural hair remains, a half wig or hairpiece may provide a more appropriate solution than a full wig.

Mandeville's ReadyMade half wigs are specifically designed for partial hair loss and thinning hair and can be blended into the client's own hair.

TRACTION ALOPECIA

Traction alopecia is caused by repeated pulling or tension on the hair follicles, often associated with tight hairstyles.

In its earlier stages, reducing the source of tension may allow recovery. Long-standing traction can potentially result in permanent hair loss.

If the loss affects a particular area, such as the front or sides of the scalp, a targeted hairpiece may offer sufficient coverage without requiring a full wig.

HAIRPIECE, HALF WIG OR FULL WIG?

Choosing the right solution should be based on where your hair loss occurs and how much coverage you actually need.

A hairpiece may work well when hair loss is concentrated in one particular area.

A half wig or topper is designed for partial hair loss or general thinning and blends into your remaining natural hair.

A full wig is usually more suitable when most or all of the scalp hair has been lost.

The goal is not simply to cover as much of the head as possible. The best solution is the one that provides the coverage you need while remaining secure, lightweight and natural.

WHY HUMAN HAIR CAN BE PARTICULARLY SUITABLE FOR ALOPECIA

For someone wearing a wig every day, movement, comfort and styling flexibility become particularly important.

Mandeville London specialises exclusively in natural European human hair. Its wigs are individually hand-knotted onto lightweight lace foundations, allowing the hair to move and be styled more like naturally growing hair.

Human hair also allows you greater freedom to change your parting and style, which can help a wig feel less like a fixed hair replacement and more like your own hair.

READYMADE OR MADE TO MEASURE?

Both can provide excellent results.

A ReadyMade wig can be a good option when one of the available sizes, colours and lengths already suits you. Mandeville's collection is handmade using 12-inch European human hair and can be cut and styled on your head.

A Made to Measure wig gives you much greater control over the finished result. A personalised foundation is created around your head shape, and the colour, texture, density, length, hairline and crown can all be customised.

For people with long-term or extensive alopecia who wear their wig daily, this additional personalisation can make a significant difference.

You can also compare the two approaches in Mandeville's Custom vs ReadyMade wig guide.

FINAL THOUGHTS

Alopecia can affect everyone differently, which means there is no single wig solution that works for every type of hair loss.

Someone with localised thinning may only require a small hairpiece, while somebody with alopecia totalis may benefit from a full Made to Measure wig.

Fit, comfort and a natural appearance should always be considered alongside the amount of coverage required.

If you are unsure which option is suitable for your hair loss, a professional consultation can help determine the most appropriate solution.

Book a complimentary consultation with Mandeville London

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What are the main types of alopecia?

Common types include alopecia areata, alopecia totalis, alopecia universalis, androgenetic alopecia and traction alopecia. Each produces a different pattern and extent of hair loss.

What causes alopecia areata?

Alopecia areata is an autoimmune condition in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the hair follicles. The exact reason why it develops is not fully understood, although genetic factors can play a role.

Can hair grow back after alopecia?

It depends on the type of alopecia. With alopecia areata, regrowth is possible because the hair follicles are generally not permanently destroyed, although recurrence can occur.

Do I need a full wig for alopecia?

Not necessarily. A hairpiece or half wig may be sufficient for partial hair loss or thinning. A full wig is generally more suitable when most or all scalp hair has been lost.

Are human hair wigs suitable for alopecia?

Yes. Premium human hair can provide very natural movement and greater styling flexibility, making it particularly suitable for people who wear their wig regularly.

Should I choose ReadyMade or Made to Measure?

ReadyMade wigs are useful if an existing size and colour suit your needs and you want a quicker solution. Made to Measure wigs provide greater control over fit, hairline, colour, texture and density.