Men with male pattern hair loss notice their hair thinning or a receding hairline. Their hair usually gets thinner until a bald patch forms at the temples and crown. Each strand of hair sits in a tiny hole (cavity) in the skin called a follicle. With male pattern baldness, these follicles shrink over time, producing shorter and finer hair strands. Finasteride is the most common treatment for male pattern hair loss, which halts the progression of thinning and receding hairlines. It inhibits the enzyme type II 5a-reductase, which converts testosterone to dihydrotestosterone. It also helps to stimulate the regrowth of existing hair. However, it will not prevent hair loss from the back and sides of your head.
How can I treat male pattern baldness?
Several options for treating male pattern hair loss, also known as androgenetic alopecia. The most common treatment is prescription-based medications such as Finasteride. How does Finasteride work for hair loss? It may help slow the progression of hair loss. Some men may even experience regrowth of some hairs. Other treatments include hair transplantation, wigs and other hairpieces, and platelet-rich plasma injections. If you notice hair thinning, you should see your healthcare provider immediately. Your doctor may be able to diagnose your condition by taking a quick peek at your scalp or using a tool called a dermatoscopy. They will ask about your family history of hair loss, lifestyle habits, and other factors such as stress levels. Some people with male pattern baldness choose not to pursue treatment, as they find the condition natural and a normal part of aging. However, if you are uncomfortable with your appearance and feel the loss affects your quality of life, you should talk to your healthcare provider.
What is male pattern baldness?
Male pattern baldness is a prevalent condition that impacts men’s hair. It usually starts during puberty or early adulthood and affects the hairline and temples, leading to less hair than usual while the sides of the head retain fuller hair. While this condition is not a severe health concern, it can significantly impact a person’s self-esteem and confidence. It is hereditary, meaning that it runs in the family and is influenced by genetics. If a person’s father has male pattern baldness, they are also more likely to Male pattern baldness can be treated with hair transplant surgery or platelet-rich plasma injections. A hair transplant entails moving healthy hair follicles from areas with hair to regions with baldness or thinning hair. Platelet-rich plasma involves a healthcare professional drawing blood from the patient, processing it, and injecting it into the scalp to stimulate new hair growth. However, both techniques can have side effects like scalp pain, irritation, scarring, and dizziness. Other options include wigs and hair extensions, which are costly and require frequent maintenance. Although these methods are not scientifically proven to reduce baldness, some men report that they help to cover up or hide bald spots. Additionally, some studies have shown that specific vitamins and supplements can enhance hair growth in some individuals.
What causes male pattern baldness?
Male pattern hair loss is the most common form of baldness in men, and it usually occurs as a receding hairline and a thinning or bald spot on the top (crown) of your head. A combination of hormones, genes, and age causes it. In most cases, it can’t be prevented. However, some treatments may help slow down the rate of hair loss and regrow some hair. Men start to lose their hair at different ages, but in general, it’s less noticeable in younger men than in older ones. It’s widespread in Caucasians and can affect people assigned as male at birth, but it also happens to men from other ethnic backgrounds. The first signs of baldness are often noticed in your late teens or early twenties.
How does male pattern baldness affect my life?
Male pattern hair loss (androgenic alopecia) affects most men assigned male at birth as they age. It happens gradually and predictably in patterns such as a receding hairline and thinning hair on the crown. Hair loss affects many aspects of a man’s life and can impact confidence. It can make some feel depressed, anxious, and stressed, especially if the pattern of hair loss is rapid. It may also be a sign of illness or disease, such as a thyroid problem or a scalp infection, so getting a diagnosis and seeking treatment is essential. While there is no way to prevent male pattern baldness, there are treatments that can slow the process and help some people regrow their hair. The best option is to start treatment soon after noticing the pattern of hair loss, as treatments are less effective if used later in the process. It can take months to notice results, and it may be necessary to use the medication continuously.
