Male pattern baldness affects everyone differently, and some people are more predisposed to it. It can occur in about 1 in 5 men in their 20s, 1 in 3 men in their 30s, and nearly 50% of men in their 40s
What is male pattern baldness?
Male pattern baldness or androgenetic alopecia is a common type of hair loss that affects two-thirds of males. It causes one to lose hair on the top and front of the head. Hair loss in men can be in the form of thinning of hair or a receding hairline.
This pattern of hair loss in young men can make men feel less confident and makes them feel less attractive. In older generations, a positive view of aging can help men embrace the new look and feel more okay with an age-appropriate hair loss.
The stages of male pattern hair loss
Stage 1: There is little to no hair loss.
Stage 2: Hair loss slightly starts near the temples on forehead.
Stage 3: The deep hairline recedes around the temples and begins to give an M or U shape.
Stage 4: A deep hairline recession and loss of hair on the crown.
Stage 5: There are bald spots on the crown of the head.
This type of hair loss takes 15-25 years to progress to complete baldness. In individuals with a family history of male pattern hair loss then the chances of experiencing hair loss are higher and more likely to have advanced progress.
What causes Male pattern baldness?
Hair grows from each hair follicle for about three years, which is then shed, and a new hair grows from the follicle. This hair growth cycle is life long however, in males, an altered cycle must take place.
In males, sex hormones can also be responsible for hair loss. The cell in the scalp helps convert testosterone into dihydrotestosterone. The hair follicle can become sensitive to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), causing the hair follicle to shrink and hair loss to worsen. This is a genetic factor of male pattern baldness.
The affected hair follicles gradually become smaller than normal, and as each follicle is smaller, the new hair that grows in that follicle is thinner than the previous one. The thin hair grows for a shorter amount of time before falling out. Furthermore, leading to such small hair follicles in which the hair does not grow out to the surface.
What is male pattern baldness treatment?
Male pattern baldness is a long-term condition, and its treatment aims to slow hair loss and potentially stimulate hair growth.
In the aging process for men, it is normal to gradually lose hair or become bald. Some men choose the no-treatment route and let nature take its course. It is important to understand that a good hair care routine can ensure hair doesn’t fall out any quicker. Getting a good haircut that suits the face frame and complements the slow hair loss process can make you look or feel better about hair thinning.
There are hair loss treatment options for male pattern hair loss if some men want to explore this route. There are options of liquid, foam, or tablet form.
Medications
Finasteride is a prescription tablet medication that works by blocking the conversion of testosterone into DHT, thus reducing its effects on hair follicles. The effectiveness is greater if it starts early in the hair loss process. The side effects are rash, hives and depression, and itchiness.
Minoxidil is the over-the-counter topical solution applied to the scalp. It usually helps to stimulate hair growth and prolong the growth of hair follicles. There are some side effects, including irritation, burning, and scaling of the scalp.
Hair transplants
These are common techniques used in hair transplantation where hair follicles are transplanted into areas where the scalp has become resistant to DHT. This usually happens at the back and sides of the head in the balding areas.
Platelet Rich Plasma
This treatment is not a permanent solution and can be used alone or before a hair transplant to improve results. The procedure involves a small amount of blood being drawn and placed into a machine that separates the red blood cells from the plasma, which is then injected into the scalp. It is suggested to lessen hair loss.
Lifestyle changes
Overall hair health can be supported by maintaining a healthy lifestyle via a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals. Males should focus on exercise and stress management to minimize hair loss. In theory, stress may cause hair loss by increasing the production levels of sex hormones in the body.
Wigs or hair pieces
For individuals who would like to have a head full of hair, wigs can provide coverage for thinning hair or receding hair. Wigs can have a natural look with a choice of colours, styles, and textures.
Consult the doctor
Individuals concerned about their hair health should discuss their hair loss concerns with their healthcare professional. A doctor can determine which treatment may be the best option for you.
