What type of hair loss is this? Do I have FFA? (Photos)

After looking at your global photos, it does not appear that you have Frontal, Fibrosiing Alopecia. Furthermore, your history does not include typical symptoms of itching, burning, tingling or redness. The diagnosis of Female Pattern Hair loss is suggested . A complete evaluation by a hair expert is recommended. This includes extensive history, blood work, Dermoscopy, Hair Metrix evaluation, Pull test, and possibly biopsy. There are many successful treatments including FDA approved and newer regenerative medicine approaches . Good luck.
Jeff Rapaport MD FAAD
Realself Hall of Fame
Castle Connolly Top Doctor

Hi there,

Thank you for sharing your concern and photos — I can completely understand how stressful it can feel to notice thinning around your temples and hairline. Hair loss in this area can have several possible causes, and it’s great that you’re paying close attention early on.

From what you described — no itching, redness, or bumps — this doesn’t strongly suggest an inflammatory type of hair loss like frontal fibrosing alopecia (FFA), which often presents with symptoms such as tightness, itching, or visible inflammation along the hairline and sometimes loss of eyebrows.

Instead, what you’re describing sounds more consistent with androgenetic alopecia (female pattern hair loss) or traction-related thinning if there’s been frequent tension from hairstyles over time. Both can lead to gradual thinning and recession at the temples without scalp irritation.

A few steps I’d recommend:

Scalp examination or dermoscopy can help confirm whether follicles are miniaturizing (as seen in pattern hair loss) or scarred (as in FFA).

Blood work can rule out underlying triggers like hormonal changes, thyroid imbalance, or low iron.

Early treatment with topical or oral therapies (such as minoxidil, spironolactone, or finasteride in some cases) can help preserve and strengthen existing hair.

The good news is that if there’s no scarring, regrowth and stabilization are very achievable with consistent treatment. You’ve done the right thing by asking about this early — identifying the pattern now gives you the best chance at maintaining healthy, full hair over time.