Hair loss in men is a common and often distressing phenomenon that can have a profound impact on one's self-esteem and confidence. While some hair loss is a natural part of the aging process, various factors can contribute to premature and excessive hair thinning or baldness.
A receding hairline is a hallmark feature of male pattern baldness and often one of the first noticeable signs of hair loss in men. This process is influenced by both genetic and hormonal factors, emphasizing the importance of understanding one's family history when assessing the risk of developing male pattern baldness.
What causes hair loss in men?
Hair loss in men can be attributed to various factors, most of which are genetic, while others may be related to lifestyle, health conditions, or external influences. Here are some common causes of hair loss in men:
- Family history (Genetics) -The most common cause of hair loss is a hereditary condition that happens with aging. This condition is called androgenic alopecia, male-pattern baldness. It usually occurs gradually and in predictable patterns — a receding hairline and thinning in vertex in men.
- Hormonal changes - DHT, a derivative of testosterone, is a key player in the hair loss equation. While testosterone is a crucial male hormone, the conversion of testosterone to DHT by the enzyme 5-alpha reductase can have detrimental effects on hair follicles. In individuals with a genetic predisposition to male pattern baldness, the hair follicles become more susceptible to the damaging effects of DHT. Over time, this leads to a gradual miniaturization of the follicles, resulting in thinner, shorter hair until they eventually cease producing hair altogether.
- Stress - Physical or emotional stress can lead to temporary hair loss. This condition is known as telogen effluvium and occurs when hair follicles enter the resting phase prematurely and shed more than usual.
- Medications - Some medications, including those used for cancer, arthritis, depression, and heart problems, may have hair loss as a side effect. Consulting with a healthcare professional about alternative medications or solutions is advisable.
- Medical Conditions and Treatments - Certain medical conditions, such as thyroid disorders, autoimmune diseases, and hormonal imbalances, can contribute to hair loss in men. Treating the underlying medical issue is essential in managing hair loss in these cases. Examples include thyroid disorders, alopecia areata (an autoimmune condition), scalp infections, and cancer treatments like chemotherapy.
- Dietary Deficiencies - Inadequate intake of essential nutrients like iron, vitamin B12, zinc, biotin, and protein can impact hair health and contribute to hair loss. Nutrients like iron, zinc, and vitamin D are crucial for maintaining healthy hair follicles.
- Age - Hair loss is a natural part of the aging process. As men age, the rate of hair growth decreases, and hair follicles may become less active, leading to thinning and eventual baldness.
- Lifestyle Factors - Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and poor lifestyle choices can negatively impact hair health. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular exercise, can contribute to overall well-being, potentially reducing the risk of hair loss.
How to prevent hair loss?
Most baldness is caused by genetics (male-pattern baldness and female-pattern baldness). This type of hair loss is not preventable.
These tips may help you avoid preventable types of hair loss:
- Be gentle with your hair. Use a detangler and avoid tugging when brushing and combing, especially when your hair is wet. A wide-toothed comb might help prevent pulling out hair.
- Avoid harsh treatments such as hot rollers, curling irons, hot-oil treatments and permanents. Limit the tension on hair from styles that use rubber bands, barrettes and braids.
- Protect your hair from sunlight and other sources of ultraviolet light.
- Stop smoking. Studies show an association between smoking and baldness in men.
- Maintain healthy lifestyle including food habits, sleep pattern and regular exercise.
Treatment
Treatment options for male pattern baldness include:
- Minoxidil, a solution that is applied directly to the scalp to stimulate the hair follicles. It slows hair loss for many men, and some men grow new hair. Hair loss returns when you stop using this medicine.
- Finasteride, a pill that interferes with the production of a highly active form of testosterone that is linked to baldness. It slows hair loss. It works slightly better than minoxidil. Hair loss returns when you stop using this medicine.
- Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP)/ Growth-Factor Concentrate (GFC) injected into the scalp to stimulate hair growth. This involves drawing your blood, collecting a portion that is rich in platelets, and injecting the areas of hair loss over a series of sessions.
- Hair transplants consist of removing tiny plugs of hair from areas where the hair is continuing to grow and placing them in areas that are balding.
- Adjuvants - Microneedling, laser/light caps, redensyl, procapil, anagain.
Always consult with your dermatologist/trichologist to determine the exact cause and type of hair loss you are experiencing so that the best treatment plan can be formulated for you.