The Science
A widening part, a receding line, or more hair in the shower can mean different things. Start with the pattern and timing. Then ask what evidence would actually settle the question.
Take the IndexTWO DIFFERENT STORIES
These clues can guide a conversation. They cannot tell you which condition you have.
01 / GRADUAL PATTERN
A slowly receding hairline or thinning at the crown can fit hereditary pattern hair loss. Follicles, the tiny structures that grow each hair, may shrink over time. This is called miniaturization. A visible pattern is a clue, not proof of the cause.
AAD on causes of hair loss02 / EXCESS SHEDDING
A noticeable increase in shedding can follow illness, an operation or major stress, sometimes a few months later. This can be temporary, but not every diffuse change is temporary. It can also occur alongside pattern loss.
AAD on shedding versus hair lossWHAT THE INDEX CAN READ
Your account
When you noticed the change, where it started, and recent illness or stress can help frame the question. Your answers remain reported signals, not confirmed causes.
Your photos
A report requires two approved front and crown photos with separate consent to remote analysis. If the scan is unavailable or you decline, no report is generated. Photos cannot measure follicles or confirm miniaturization, a hormone effect or a diagnosis.
A clinician
A dermatologist can ask about your history and examine your scalp. Sometimes tests are needed. They can decide whether a proposed direction fits, needs changing, or needs referral instead.
WHEN TO ASK FOR HELP
If you're worried about hair loss, speak with a GP or dermatologist before paying for treatment. Hair loss can have different causes, and some types do not need treatment. A sudden change, a patch or scalp symptoms deserve a proper look rather than a photo-based assumption.
Read NHS guidance on hair lossNHS advice is general health guidance. It is not a diagnosis or an endorsement of Avenulo.
SOURCE NOTES
These independent health resources explain hair loss in general. They do not test or endorse an Avenulo product or protocol.
YOUR NEXT STEP
With approved photos and remote-analysis consent, the Index can organise reported signals and visible observations into a provisional direction. Without that scan, it cannot generate a report. It cannot replace clinical review.