You may experience temporary or permanent hair loss (alopecia) affecting either your scalp or your entire body. The cause can be hereditary, hormonal, or health-related. Hair loss is common among men, but any person can experience it. Baldness is characterized by excessive hair loss from the scalp. The most common cause of baldness is hereditary hair loss with age. Untreated and unhidden hair loss is preferable to some people. Others may cover it up with hairstyles, makeup, hats, or scarves. And still, others choose one of the treatments available to prevent further hair loss or restore growth.