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Hair thinning affects about 50% of men by age 50 and many women. Several treatments can slow or reverse hair loss if started early.
There are several possible causes. Here are the most common ones:
Genetic sensitivity to hormones. Most common cause of hair loss.
You might suspect this if you have:
Hair enters shedding phase 2-3 months after stressful event.
You might suspect this if you have:
Menopause, PCOS, thyroid problems can cause thinning.
You might suspect this if you have:
Low iron or ferritin can cause hair loss.
You might suspect this if you have:
Both underactive and overactive thyroid can cause thinning.
You might suspect this if you have:
Important: This information is for general guidance only and should not be used to self-diagnose. A doctor can properly assess your symptoms and provide appropriate advice.
Call 000 or go to Emergency immediately
Hair thinning is a sensitive topic and patients often delay seeking help. The most common cause by far is androgenetic alopecia (male or female pattern hair loss) — a genetic condition that responds well to treatment when started early. The key is early intervention: finasteride and minoxidil are most effective at preventing further loss rather than regrowing what has already gone. Other causes I consider include thyroid dysfunction, iron deficiency, stress-related telogen effluvium (which typically occurs 2-3 months after a significant stressor), autoimmune alopecia, and medication side effects. A thorough history usually identifies the pattern, and blood tests may be needed to rule out medical causes. Telehealth is well-suited for hair loss assessment because the diagnosis is largely visual and history-based.
Medical certificate guidance: Hair thinning itself is unlikely to require a medical certificate, though the psychological impact (anxiety, depression) may. If hair loss is causing significant distress affecting your work or daily function, that is a legitimate reason to seek support.
All clinical decisions are made by AHPRA-registered doctors following our clinical governance framework. We never automate clinical decisions.
Male pattern baldness can start in the early 20s but is more common from 30s onward. Women typically notice thinning after menopause.
It depends on the cause. Androgenetic alopecia can be slowed or partially reversed with treatment, especially if caught early. Stress-related loss usually regrows within 6-9 months.
Yes — clinically proven treatments can help slow hair loss and promote regrowth. Results take 6-12 months. Treatment must be continued to maintain benefits.
Yes — severe stress can cause telogen effluvium, where lots of hair enters the shedding phase at once. This usually happens 2-3 months after the stressful event and regrows within 6-9 months.
If your symptoms are keeping you from work or study, you can request a medical certificate through InstantMed. A doctor will review your symptoms and issue a certificate if clinically appropriate — typically for 1 to 3 days depending on severity. You don't need to be dramatically unwell; feeling genuinely too rough to function is reason enough.
Yes. Australian-registered doctors can assess your symptoms and issue valid medical certificates via telehealth. You fill in a detailed health questionnaire, a doctor reviews it, and if appropriate, your certificate is delivered digitally. No waiting room required.
You complete a structured health questionnaire covering your symptoms, duration, severity, and relevant medical history. The reviewing doctor uses this information — the same clinical reasoning they'd apply in a face-to-face consult — to determine whether a certificate, advice, or referral is appropriate.
A medical certificate covers the period stated on the document. If your symptoms worsen or don't improve as expected, you should see a GP in person or visit your nearest emergency department if it's urgent. Your certificate doesn't replace ongoing care — it's a point-in-time clinical assessment.
In some cases, yes. If a doctor reviewing your request determines that a common, non-restricted treatment is appropriate, they may issue a prescription as part of a consultation. Not all symptoms require or qualify for a prescription — the doctor will advise you on next steps.
Medical certificates are typically issued in under 30 minutes, available 24/7. Other requests are reviewed within 1–2 hours during operating hours (8am–10pm AEST, 7 days). You'll receive an email notification once your request has been reviewed.
If your symptoms suggest something that requires a physical examination, diagnostic tests, or specialist referral, the doctor will let you know and recommend appropriate next steps. Your safety is the priority — telehealth is a great option for many things, but it's not a replacement for hands-on assessment when that's what's needed.
No Medicare card is required for medical certificates. If you're requesting a prescription or consultation, a valid Medicare card is needed. Our service is private and does not attract a Medicare rebate, though any prescriptions issued can still attract PBS subsidies at the pharmacy.
Our Australian-registered doctors can assess your symptoms and provide advice, treatment, or medical certificates if needed.
Get hair loss treatmentThis information is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about your health. Content on this page has been reviewed by AHPRA-registered Australian doctors but does not replace a personalised medical consultation.