Hair Loss Clinic Dublin: Medical Hair Loss Diagnosis & Treatment at Hazel Clinic

Medical hair and scalp assessments with Dr Susana Fontana at Hazel Clinic, Blackrock, Dublin. Consultations: €250.

Hair loss can be worrying, particularly when you do not understand why it is happening or whether it can be treated.

For some people, it develops gradually, with a widening parting, a receding hairline or reduced hair density. For others, it appears suddenly, with increased shedding after pregnancy, illness, stress or a change in health.

Hair loss is not always simply a cosmetic concern. It can be associated with genetics, hormonal changes, nutritional deficiencies, certain medications, inflammation and medical conditions affecting the scalp or hair follicles.

At Hazel Clinic in Blackrock, Dublin, we take a medically led, personalised approach to hair loss. Under the direction of Dr Susana Fontana, our assessments aim to identify the likely cause of hair changes, establish whether further investigations are needed and determine which treatments may be appropriate for each individual.

Our goal is not to recommend the same treatment to everyone. It is to understand what is happening to your hair and scalp before deciding on the next steps.

Medical Hair Loss Assessment in Dublin

Hair loss has many possible causes, and different conditions require different approaches.

A treatment that may help someone with hereditary hair thinning may not be appropriate for someone experiencing temporary shedding after an illness. Similarly, hair loss associated with inflammation or a condition affecting the scalp may require medical treatment rather than a regenerative procedure.

At Hazel Clinic, the first step is a comprehensive hair loss consultation with Dr Susana Fontana.

The assessment considers your medical history, the pattern and duration of your hair loss, any associated scalp symptoms and possible contributing factors. Depending on your presentation, the doctor may recommend blood tests, further dermatological investigations or a referral for additional assessment.

This approach helps us distinguish between conditions that may benefit from medical treatment, those where monitoring is appropriate and those that require further investigation before treatment begins.

Hair loss consultation at Hazel Clinic: €250.

Meet Dr Susana Fontana

Dr Susana Fontana is the founder and Medical Director of Hazel Clinic, a doctor-led dermatology and aesthetic medicine clinic in Blackrock, Dublin.

Her medical background includes an MD, GPST and MICGP qualifications, postgraduate training in Aesthetic Medicine and Nutrition, and a Diploma in Dermatology.

Her experience across general practice, dermatology, nutrition and aesthetic medicine informs a broader approach to hair loss assessment.

Hair health can be influenced by several factors at the same time. Genetics may determine a person’s susceptibility to hair thinning, while hormonal changes, nutritional deficiencies, illness, medication or scalp inflammation may contribute to the presentation.

Understanding these possible connections is particularly important when assessing women experiencing changes after pregnancy, patients with gradual hair thinning, and people whose hair loss is accompanied by changes in the scalp.

At Hazel Clinic, Dr Fontana considers the clinical picture as a whole rather than treating hair loss as an isolated cosmetic problem.

This means taking the time to assess the individual, explain the possible causes and discuss appropriate options before recommending a treatment plan.

What Happens at Your First Hair Loss Consultation?

Your first appointment is designed to understand your hair loss and determine what may be contributing to it.

Every patient is different, so the assessment is tailored to your symptoms, medical history and clinical findings.

1. Detailed Medical History

Dr Fontana will ask about when your hair loss began, whether it developed gradually or suddenly, and which areas of the scalp are affected.

The discussion may include recent illnesses, significant stress, pregnancy or childbirth, hormonal changes, menstrual history where relevant, family history of hair loss, medications, supplements and dietary factors.

You will also have the opportunity to explain any concerns about shedding, changes in hair density, scalp discomfort or previous treatments.

This information helps establish which causes should be considered and whether additional investigations may be necessary.

2. Hair and Scalp Assessment Using a Digital Dermatoscope

A clinical examination of the hair and scalp is an important part of the assessment.

Where appropriate, a digital dermatoscope is used to examine the scalp and hair follicles at increased magnification. This technique, commonly referred to as trichoscopy or digital trichoscopy, can help identify patterns associated with different types of hair loss.

The examination may provide information about hair shaft thickness, variation in hair diameter, follicular openings, scalp scaling, redness and other visible features.

These findings can help the doctor distinguish between different presentations, including pattern hair loss and certain inflammatory scalp conditions.

Digital dermatoscopy is an assessment tool, not a diagnosis in itself. Its findings must be interpreted alongside your history and clinical examination, and further tests may be needed in some cases.

3. Identifying Possible Underlying Causes

Hair loss can have more than one contributing factor.

Depending on your presentation, Dr Fontana may consider hereditary hair loss, hormonal influences, recent illness, nutritional deficiencies, medication-related shedding or an underlying scalp condition.

Blood tests may be recommended when clinically indicated. These could include investigations of thyroid function, iron status, full blood count or selected nutritional and hormonal markers, depending on your symptoms and medical history.

Not every patient needs the same blood tests. The aim is to investigate relevant possibilities rather than request unnecessary testing.

If the examination suggests a condition requiring further investigation, such as suspected scarring alopecia, additional dermatological assessment or referral may be appropriate.

4. A Personalised Treatment Plan

Following the assessment, Dr Fontana will explain the most likely causes of your hair loss, what can reasonably be expected from treatment and which options may be suitable.

Depending on the findings, the plan may involve prescription medication, topical treatments, blood tests, management of a scalp condition, PRP therapy, trichology support or a combination of approaches.

In some cases, the most appropriate next step is to investigate further before starting treatment.

In others, monitoring changes over time may be part of the plan.

The purpose of your first appointment is to establish the right direction, not to commit you to a particular treatment.

What Conditions Can Cause Hair Loss?

Hair loss is a general term covering several different conditions. Identifying the type of hair loss is essential because the likely course and treatment options vary.

Female Pattern Hair Loss

Female pattern hair loss, also known as female androgenetic alopecia, is a common cause of gradual thinning in women.

It often presents as reduced density over the crown or a widening of the central parting. The frontal hairline may remain relatively preserved, although individual presentations vary.

Genetic susceptibility plays an important role. Hormonal factors may also be relevant in some patients, but female pattern hair loss does not automatically indicate a hormonal disorder.

Depending on the diagnosis, treatment may include topical minoxidil, selected prescription treatments and, in appropriate cases, PRP therapy.

The aim is to slow progression where possible and support the maintenance or improvement of hair density. Early assessment can help establish a management plan before thinning becomes more advanced.

Male Pattern Baldness

Male pattern baldness, or male androgenetic alopecia, commonly causes gradual recession at the temples, thinning at the crown or a combination of both.

It is influenced by genetics and the effects of androgens on susceptible hair follicles.

Treatment options may include topical minoxidil, prescription medication where appropriate and PRP therapy in selected patients.

The choice depends on the pattern and extent of hair loss, medical history, potential contraindications and the patient’s preferences.

An assessment also helps identify presentations that do not follow the typical pattern and may require investigation for another cause.

Telogen Effluvium: Excessive Hair Shedding

Telogen effluvium is a form of hair shedding that can occur when a larger-than-usual proportion of hair follicles enters the resting phase of the hair growth cycle.

It may develop after a significant illness, surgery, childbirth, substantial physical or psychological stress, rapid weight loss, nutritional deficiency or certain medication changes.

Patients often notice increased shedding when washing or brushing their hair, or a general reduction in volume rather than a distinct bald patch.

Shedding may begin several weeks or months after the original trigger, which can make the cause difficult to recognise.

In many cases, acute telogen effluvium improves once the triggering factor has resolved. However, persistent shedding warrants assessment to investigate ongoing contributors and distinguish it from other forms of hair loss.

Treatment focuses on the underlying cause, appropriate reassurance and monitoring, rather than automatically recommending a hair growth procedure.

Postpartum Hair Loss

Increased hair shedding after pregnancy is common and is often a form of telogen effluvium.

Hormonal changes following childbirth can cause more hairs than usual to enter the shedding phase at the same time. This commonly becomes noticeable in the months after delivery.

For many women, shedding gradually settles and hair density improves over time. However, prolonged or pronounced hair loss may warrant assessment, particularly when accompanied by other symptoms or signs of a scalp condition.

At Hazel Clinic, the assessment considers the timing of the shedding, the patient’s recovery following pregnancy and whether additional factors, such as iron deficiency or thyroid dysfunction, may be contributing.

Treatment recommendations must take account of breastfeeding, pregnancy plans and medication safety.

Hormonal Hair Loss

Hormonal changes may contribute to hair thinning or shedding in certain circumstances.

These may include changes associated with pregnancy and the postpartum period, menopause, thyroid disorders or selected hormonal conditions.

However, hair loss alone does not establish that a hormonal imbalance is present.

Where the history or examination suggests a hormonal contributor, Dr Fontana may recommend appropriate investigations or coordinate further medical assessment.

Treatment depends on the underlying diagnosis. It may involve addressing an identified medical condition, considering appropriate prescription options or monitoring the response over time.

Alopecia Areata

Alopecia areata is an autoimmune condition that can cause patchy hair loss on the scalp or other parts of the body.

It can present differently from hereditary hair thinning or telogen effluvium and may require specific medical treatment.

If alopecia areata is suspected, the assessment focuses on establishing the diagnosis and determining the most appropriate next step. Depending on the presentation, specialist dermatological management may be required.

Scalp Conditions and Inflammatory Hair Loss

The health of the scalp is closely connected to the assessment of hair loss.

Conditions such as seborrhoeic dermatitis, psoriasis and other inflammatory disorders can cause itching, redness, scaling or discomfort.

Some scalp conditions may contribute to increased shedding, while certain inflammatory or scarring forms of alopecia can permanently damage hair follicles if not recognised and treated promptly.

Symptoms such as persistent inflammation, pain, burning, marked scaling or areas of progressive hair loss should not simply be treated with cosmetic scalp products.

A medical assessment can help determine whether the problem requires prescription treatment, further investigation or referral.

Hair Loss Treatments at Hazel Clinic

There is no single treatment that works for every type of hair loss.

The most appropriate approach depends on the diagnosis, the condition of the hair follicles, the patient’s medical history and the goals of treatment.

Following your assessment, the options discussed may include medical treatments, regenerative procedures, scalp care or additional testing.

1. Prescription and Medical Treatments

For some patients, medical treatment is the most appropriate starting point.

Depending on the diagnosis, this may include topical minoxidil or selected prescription medications designed to manage particular types of hair loss.

For patients with an identified nutritional deficiency or medical condition, addressing that underlying issue may also be important.

Prescription treatments are not suitable for everyone and may have side effects or contraindications. Some require ongoing use to maintain their benefits.

Dr Fontana will discuss relevant options based on your presentation rather than assuming that every patient needs medication.

2. Hair Revive™ PRP Therapy for Hair Loss

Hair Revive™ is Hazel Clinic’s platelet-rich plasma (PRP) treatment for selected patients experiencing hair thinning or certain forms of non-scarring hair loss.

PRP is prepared from a small sample of the patient’s own blood. The blood is processed to concentrate platelets and associated growth factors, and the resulting preparation is injected into selected areas of the scalp.

These growth factors may influence biological processes involved in tissue repair and hair follicle activity. Clinical studies suggest that PRP can improve hair density in some patients with androgenetic alopecia, although results vary and the quality of evidence differs between studies and protocols.

PRP is not a guaranteed solution and is not appropriate for every cause of hair loss.

It may be considered for selected patients with pattern hair loss, particularly when there is still hair present in the affected areas. It does not reliably restore hair in areas where follicles have been permanently destroyed by scarring.

At Hazel Clinic, suitability is assessed before treatment is recommended.

What to Expect During PRP Treatment

Treatment time: Approximately 60 minutes.

Anaesthetic: Topical numbing cream may be used to reduce discomfort.

Discomfort: Some discomfort is expected, although the degree varies between patients.

Initial treatment course: A course of three sessions, approximately four weeks apart, may be recommended, depending on the clinical assessment.

Recovery: Most patients can resume their usual activities relatively quickly. Tenderness, redness, swelling or bruising may occur after treatment. Recovery varies, and some patients may experience symptoms for several days.

Results: Improvements, if they occur, develop gradually over several months. Changes in shedding, hair thickness and density vary between individuals.

Maintenance: Further treatment may be considered according to the patient’s response and ongoing needs.

What Happens During a PRP Session?

After confirming suitability, a small blood sample is collected and processed in a centrifuge to obtain the PRP preparation.

A topical anaesthetic may be applied before the treatment. The PRP is then injected into selected areas of the scalp using fine needles.

The treatment uses the patient’s own blood components, but this does not eliminate the risks associated with injections or guarantee a particular result.

PRP may not be appropriate during pregnancy, in the presence of an active infection or in certain medical circumstances. Your medical practitioner will assess suitability and explain the relevant precautions before proceeding.

3. Trichology and Digital Scalp Analysis

Hair loss assessment can also benefit from a detailed evaluation of the scalp and hair characteristics.

Clare Devereux, Hazel Clinic’s in-house trichologist, provides specialist hair and scalp analysis using digital trichoscopy.

This assessment can help document scalp and hair characteristics, identify concerns requiring further medical review and support the monitoring of changes over time.

Trichology complements medical assessment but does not replace a doctor’s diagnosis when hair loss may be associated with an underlying medical or dermatological condition.

Where appropriate, Dr Fontana and Clare can contribute different perspectives to the patient’s overall care.

4. TrichoTest: Hair Loss DNA Analysis

Some patients ask whether genetic testing can help identify the most appropriate treatment for hair loss.

Hazel Clinic offers the TrichoTest, a DNA-based assessment that may help inform treatment decisions in selected cases.

The test analyses genetic variants associated with pathways relevant to hair loss and treatment response. Depending on the test panel and the patient’s clinical circumstances, the results may contribute to a more personalised discussion of potential treatment options.

TrichoTest may be considered when a patient has a suitable clinical presentation and the additional information could help guide treatment selection, particularly when comparing potential medical approaches.

However, it is important to understand what genetic testing can and cannot tell us.

A DNA test does not independently diagnose the cause of hair loss, establish that a hormonal imbalance is present or guarantee that a particular treatment will work. It does not replace medical history, scalp examination or relevant laboratory investigations.

Not every patient needs a TrichoTest. Dr Fontana can discuss whether it is likely to provide useful additional information in your particular case.

5. Scalp Revive Treatment

Scalp Revive is Hazel Clinic’s scalp-focused treatment combining deep cleansing, oxygen infusion and nourishing treatment components.

It is designed to support scalp care and improve the condition and feel of the scalp.

Its role should be distinguished from medical treatments intended to address a specific diagnosis of alopecia. A scalp-focused procedure cannot be assumed to reverse genetic hair loss, correct a nutritional deficiency or treat an inflammatory scalp disorder without appropriate medical management.

Where appropriate, scalp treatments may complement a broader hair care plan, but suitability depends on the patient’s condition and clinical needs.

Which Hair Loss Treatment Is Right for You?

The treatment that makes sense for one person may be unnecessary or unsuitable for another.

For example, a patient with hereditary hair thinning may benefit from a discussion of medical treatment and, in selected cases, PRP. Someone experiencing temporary shedding after an illness may need investigation of the trigger and reassurance rather than an injectable procedure.

A patient with persistent itching, redness or scalp scaling may require treatment for an underlying dermatological condition before considering other interventions.

For this reason, Hazel Clinic places diagnosis and assessment before treatment selection.

Depending on your findings, your plan may include one or more of the following:

• Medical or prescription-based treatment.

• Blood tests to investigate possible contributing factors.

• Hair Revive™ PRP therapy for suitable patients.

• Digital trichoscopy and follow-up scalp assessments.

• TrichoTest genetic analysis in selected cases.

• Scalp care where appropriate.

• Monitoring to assess changes in shedding, hair thickness and density.

• Further dermatological investigation or referral when indicated.

Not every patient needs every treatment. The aim is to identify the options that are clinically justified for your circumstances.

When Should You See a Doctor About Hair Loss?

Consider arranging a medical assessment if you notice persistent or progressive thinning, a widening parting, a receding hairline or shedding that continues longer than expected.

An appointment is also advisable if hair loss begins suddenly, develops in distinct patches or is accompanied by scalp pain, burning, redness, marked scaling or other symptoms.

Prompt assessment is particularly important when there are signs that an inflammatory or scarring condition may be affecting the follicles.

You do not need to wait until hair loss becomes advanced before seeking advice. An earlier assessment can help clarify the diagnosis and identify treatment options while the follicles may still be capable of producing hair.

Hair Loss Consultation at Hazel Clinic, Blackrock, Dublin

At Hazel Clinic, we understand that hair loss can affect more than appearance. It can influence confidence, daily life and the way people feel about themselves.

Our approach combines medical assessment, dermatological knowledge and access to complementary hair and scalp treatments within a doctor-led clinical setting.

Dr Susana Fontana considers the individual patient’s presentation, explains the possible causes and discusses appropriate options based on the available evidence.

Where additional expertise or investigation is needed, this forms part of the decision-making process rather than being treated as an afterthought.

We believe that patients should understand why a treatment is being recommended, what it may realistically achieve and what alternatives are available.

Sometimes, that means recommending treatment. In other cases, it means investigating an underlying cause, monitoring the condition or explaining why a particular procedure is unlikely to provide meaningful benefit.

Your first step is a medical hair and scalp assessment with Dr Susana Fontana.

Consultation fee: €250.

Location: Hazel Clinic, Suite 3, First Floor, 14–18 Main Street, Blackrock, Co. Dublin, Ireland.

To enquire about an appointment, contact Hazel Clinic through our website.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hair Loss

How much does a hair loss consultation cost at Hazel Clinic?

A hair loss assessment consultation with Dr Susana Fontana costs €250. The consultation focuses on your medical history, the pattern of hair loss and an examination of the scalp and hair. Additional tests and treatments may involve separate fees, which can be discussed as part of your care plan.

What happens at a hair loss consultation?

Your appointment includes a discussion of your symptoms and medical history, followed by a clinical assessment of your hair and scalp. A digital dermatoscope may be used to examine the scalp and hair follicles more closely. Depending on the findings, Dr Fontana may recommend blood tests, further investigations or appropriate treatment options.

Can hair loss be caused by hormonal changes?

Yes. Hormonal changes can contribute to hair shedding or thinning in certain circumstances, including the postpartum period and some thyroid or hormonal disorders. However, hair loss alone does not prove that a hormonal imbalance is present. The cause should be assessed clinically, with further investigations where indicated.

Can women receive treatment for hair loss at Hazel Clinic?

Yes. Hazel Clinic assesses women experiencing hair thinning, female pattern hair loss, postpartum shedding and other forms of hair loss. Treatment recommendations depend on the diagnosis, medical history, pregnancy or breastfeeding status where relevant, and individual suitability.

Does Hazel Clinic treat male pattern baldness?

Yes. Men experiencing a receding hairline, thinning at the crown or progressive hair loss can arrange a medical assessment. Depending on the diagnosis, options may include topical treatments, appropriate prescription medication and PRP therapy for selected patients.

Can PRP stop hair loss?

PRP may improve hair density and help manage certain types of hair thinning in some patients. It cannot guarantee that hair loss will stop, and it is not appropriate for every condition. Suitability depends on the diagnosis, the condition of the hair follicles and individual clinical factors.

How many PRP sessions are needed for hair loss?

An initial course of three sessions spaced approximately four weeks apart may be recommended for suitable patients. The number of sessions and the need for maintenance depend on the clinical assessment and the patient’s response to treatment.

When will I see results from PRP for hair loss?

Hair growth changes gradually. Some patients may notice changes in shedding or hair quality within the first few months, while improvements in density may take longer to assess. Results vary, and not everyone responds to treatment.

What is TrichoTest, and do I need it?

TrichoTest is a DNA-based hair loss test that may provide additional information when considering certain treatment options. It is not necessary for everyone and does not replace medical diagnosis or relevant blood tests. Dr Fontana can discuss whether the test may be useful in your case.

Can a scalp condition cause hair loss?

Some scalp conditions can contribute to shedding or damage hair follicles. Inflammatory or scarring conditions require particular attention because delayed diagnosis may lead to permanent hair loss. Persistent itching, redness, pain, scaling or patchy hair loss should be medically assessed.

Do I need blood tests before my consultation?

Not necessarily. It is often helpful to attend the initial consultation before arranging tests, because the appropriate investigations depend on your symptoms and medical history. Dr Fontana can advise which blood tests, if any, are relevant to your presentation.

Can hair loss be treated permanently?

There is no single answer because hair loss has many different causes. Some forms are temporary and improve when the underlying trigger resolves. Others, such as androgenetic alopecia, generally require ongoing management to maintain treatment benefits. The outlook depends on the diagnosis and the condition of the follicles.

Where can I find a hair loss clinic in Dublin?

Hazel Clinic provides medical hair loss consultations in Blackrock, Dublin. Patients can arrange an assessment with Dr Susana Fontana to investigate hair thinning, shedding and scalp concerns and discuss suitable next steps.

Book a Hair Loss Assessment

If you are concerned about hair thinning, increased shedding or changes in your scalp, a medical assessment can help you understand the possible causes and decide what to do next.

At Hazel Clinic, Blackrock, Dublin, Dr Susana Fontana provides personalised hair and scalp assessments for men and women, with further investigations and treatment options considered according to individual needs.

Hair loss consultation: €250.

Contact Hazel Clinic to enquire about availability.