South Carolina Cosmetology Practice Exam 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

Alopecia is the term used to describe hair loss that occurs due to various scalp or body conditions. This can manifest in several forms, such as alopecia areata, which leads to patchy hair loss, or androgenetic alopecia, commonly known as male or female pattern baldness. The condition can be influenced by genetics, hormonal changes, medical conditions, and stress, among other factors. Understanding alopecia is essential for cosmetologists, as they may encounter clients experiencing hair loss and need to approach this sensitive topic with care and knowledge.

Dermatitis refers to skin inflammation that may cause itching or irritation, but it doesn't specifically denote hair loss. Folliculitis is inflammation of the hair follicles, often leading to discomfort or skin issues, rather than direct hair loss itself. Trichotillomania is a psychological disorder characterized by the compulsive urge to pull out one's own hair, which results in hair loss but is driven by emotional or psychological factors. Thus, when discussing hair loss specifically due to scalp conditions, alopecia is the correct and precise term to use.