Hair loss (alopecia) can occur due to genetic changes, hormonal fluctuations, medical conditions, or a normal part of aging. It can affect the scalp or the entire body and may be temporary or permanent. It can also affect men or women, although it is much more common in men. Male pattern baldness, also known as androgenetic alopecia, refers to the gradual hair loss many men experience as they age. It is the most common cause of hair loss due to genetic and hormonal factors.
Most men with androgenetic alopecia will notice their hairline gradually receding, and the hair on top of their head is thinning. This typically leads to a bald spot on the crown of their head, sometimes accompanied by a receding hairline around the temples. The most common treatment options for this hair loss include prescription drugs and non-prescription treatments, such as lotions or wigs. While there is no cure for baldness, many of these treatments can slow the rate of hair loss or even produce partial regrowth.
The primary cause of male baldness is believed to be a combination of genetic predisposition and the influence of hormones, specifically dihydrotestosterone or DHT. DHT binds to hair follicles and inhibits their growth. In addition, a gene variant associated with androgenetic alopecia decreases the effectiveness of DHT, further reducing hair follicles’ ability to grow new hair. Other genes are thought to be involved, but their exact role still needs to be fully understood.
In contrast to male-pattern baldness caused by androgens, alopecia in women is usually caused by other factors, including stress, nutritional disorders, and some health conditions such as thyroid disease or lupus. The onset of female-pattern alopecia is generally a bit later than in men and may be accelerated by estrogen-related changes such as pregnancy or menopause.
Some people let their baldness progress naturally without treatment, and others hide it with cosmetics such as hats or wigs. Others opt for treatments intended to prevent further hair loss or stimulate regrowth, and others choose surgical procedures such as hair transplants. Regardless of which treatment option you choose, it is essential to have realistic expectations. No treatment can reverse baldness or completely restore lost hair, and it is essential to understand how your balding process will play out before you embark on any treatment program. For this reason, having your hair loss treated by a doctor who can explain the different treatment options and help you decide on the best approach is a good idea. In addition, it is essential to understand each treatment’s risks and benefits and consult with your doctor about any questions or concerns you have.
