Which Department

Which department should I see for hair loss?

2026-09-17 · Neutral information that names no hospital, doctor or region. No rankings, recommendations or reviews.

Short answer

Dermatology(피부과) is generally the first department to see for hair loss, as dermatologists specialize in conditions affecting the scalp and hair follicles. If a hormonal or systemic cause is suspected — such as thyroid dysfunction or nutritional deficiency — your dermatologist may refer you to Internal Medicine(내과) or Endocrinology(내분비내과) for further evaluation.

Which department

  1. 1Dermatology (피부과)
    Dermatologists are trained to assess scalp health, hair follicle conditions, and skin-related causes of hair loss such as alopecia areata, scalp inflammation, or androgenetic alopecia. Because hair loss most commonly originates from the scalp or follicle level, this is generally considered the primary department to visit first. — First / second line: A local clinic-level dermatologist (의원) is typically the appropriate first stop for most types of hair loss. A referral to a larger hospital may be considered if the cause is unclear or if a more complex evaluation is needed.
  2. 2Internal Medicine / Endocrinology (내과 / 내분비내과)
    Hair loss can sometimes be a sign of an underlying systemic condition such as thyroid disease, iron deficiency, or hormonal imbalance. If a dermatologist identifies a potential internal cause, they may coordinate with or refer to internal medicine or endocrinology specialists. — First / second line: This department is generally not the first stop for hair loss alone. A referral from a dermatologist or a general practitioner is the typical pathway, especially when blood tests suggest an internal or hormonal issue.
  3. 3Obstetrics & Gynecology (산부인과) — for women
    In women, hair loss may be related to hormonal changes such as postpartum shifts, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), or menopause-related hormonal fluctuations. An OB-GYN may be involved when these specific conditions are identified as contributing factors. — First / second line: This department is usually consulted secondarily, often after a dermatologist or internist identifies a gynecological hormonal factor. It is not typically the first department to visit for hair loss as an isolated symptom.
  4. 4Psychiatry / Neurology (정신건강의학과 / 신경과) — in specific cases
    Severe psychological stress (telogen effluvium) or conditions such as trichotillomania (hair-pulling disorder) can be underlying contributors to hair loss. In these cases, a psychiatric or neurological evaluation may be part of a broader care approach. — First / second line: Referral to this department is generally initiated by another specialist after ruling out dermatological or systemic causes. It is rarely the first department to contact for hair loss.

Go to the ER / call 119 if

If any of the following applies, do not choose a department — go to an emergency room or call 119 (Korea's emergency number).

  • Sudden, widespread hair loss occurring over a very short period (days), especially accompanied by high fever or severe illness.
  • Hair loss accompanied by significant swelling, redness, pain, or open sores on the scalp.
  • Hair loss following a serious head injury, scalp wound, or chemical/burn exposure.
  • Hair loss together with sudden neurological symptoms such as facial drooping, weakness on one side of the body, or difficulty speaking.
  • Hair loss alongside signs of a severe allergic reaction such as throat tightening, difficulty breathing, or widespread rash — seek emergency care or call 119 immediately.

Before your visit

  • Note approximately when the hair loss began and whether it started suddenly or gradually over time.
  • Observe the pattern of loss — diffuse thinning all over, patchy bald spots, receding at the hairline, or loss at the crown — and be ready to describe it.
  • Bring a list of all medications, supplements, and herbal remedies you are currently taking, as some substances are associated with hair loss.
  • Recall any recent major physical or emotional stressors, illnesses, surgeries, or significant dietary changes in the past 3 to 6 months.
  • If you have had previous blood tests, scalp examinations, or any prior treatment for hair loss, bring those records or results if available.
  • Note any accompanying symptoms such as scalp itching, flaking, pain, fatigue, weight changes, or irregular menstrual cycles, as these can help guide the consultation.

General principles

Hair loss (탈모) has many possible underlying causes, ranging from genetic predisposition and hormonal changes to nutritional deficiencies, autoimmune conditions, and stress-related triggers. Because the scalp and hair follicle are directly within the scope of dermatology, this specialty is generally the entry point in the Korean healthcare system for evaluating hair loss.

In Korea, the typical care pathway begins with a visit to a local dermatology clinic (피부과 의원). If further investigation is needed — for example, blood tests to check thyroid hormones, iron levels, or other systemic markers — the dermatologist may request these tests directly or coordinate a referral. A referral letter (진료의뢰서) is legally required under the national health insurance (건강보험) system only when visiting a tertiary hospital (상급종합병원); secondary hospitals (병원/종합병원) can generally be visited directly without a referral and without additional cost for lacking one.

The general approach to evaluating hair loss typically involves a detailed history, a visual examination of the scalp and hair density, and sometimes a closer look at the scalp surface. Whether and what kind of additional tests may be considered depends on clinical judgment after consultation — this is something to discuss directly with the treating physician.

Hair loss conditions vary widely in their nature and timeline. Some forms may stabilize or improve over time, while others may require longer-term management. The appropriate approach for each individual is something only a physician can determine after proper evaluation.

FAQ

Should I go to a local clinic (의원) or a larger hospital for hair loss?

Generally, starting at a local dermatology clinic (피부과 의원) is appropriate for most hair loss concerns. A referral to a larger hospital is typically considered if the cause remains unclear after initial evaluation or if specialized testing or procedures are deemed necessary by the consulting physician.

Could hair loss be related to a problem other than the scalp — like a thyroid or hormonal issue?

Yes, hair loss can sometimes reflect systemic conditions such as thyroid disorders, hormonal imbalances, or nutritional deficiencies. A dermatologist will generally assess whether an internal cause might be involved and, if so, may coordinate with other specialists. Starting with dermatology allows for a structured evaluation before determining whether other departments need to be involved.

What kind of examinations are generally done for hair loss in Korea?

The general approach typically includes a visual scalp and hair examination, a detailed symptom history, and sometimes blood tests to check for systemic factors. The specific examinations considered appropriate for a given individual depend entirely on the clinical assessment — the physician will discuss what may be relevant during the consultation.

Is the process different for children or older adults experiencing hair loss?

The underlying causes and evaluation approach can differ across age groups — for example, hair loss in children may raise different considerations than in middle-aged or older adults. In all age groups, a dermatologist is generally the recommended first contact, and the physician will tailor the evaluation approach based on age, symptoms, and medical history.

Related questions

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This page is general medical information and does not replace diagnosis, treatment or choosing a clinic. Consult a doctor for any symptom. In an emergency, go to the ER or call 119 immediately.