Hair loss in men, also known as male pattern baldness or androgenetic alopecia, is a common condition that affects up to 50% of men by the age of 50. Male pattern baldness is typically caused by a combination of genetic and hormonal factors.
Causes of hair loss in men:
- Genetic factors: Male pattern baldness is often inherited from either the mother’s or father’s side of the family.
- Hormonal factors: Dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone derived from testosterone, can cause hair follicles to shrink and eventually stop producing hair.
- Age: Hair follicles can shrink over time and produce finer, thinner hair.
- Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as thyroid disorders, autoimmune diseases, and scalp infections, can contribute to hair loss.
- Medications: Some medications, such as chemotherapy drugs, blood thinners, and antidepressants, can cause hair loss as a side effect.
Treatments for hair loss in men:
- Topical minoxidil: Minoxidil is a topical medication that can help stimulate hair growth by increasing blood flow to the hair follicles.
- Oral finasteride: Finasteride is an oral medication that can help block the production of DHT and slow down hair loss.
- Hair transplant surgery: Hair transplant surgery involves taking hair follicles from a donor area and transplanting them to the balding area.
- Low-level laser therapy: Low-level laser therapy uses red light to stimulate hair growth and improve the health of hair follicles.
- Scalp micropigmentation: Scalp micropigmentation involves tattooing the scalp with tiny dots to create the appearance of hair follicles.
It’s important to note that not all treatments are appropriate for every individual, and it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional or a hair care specialist to determine the underlying cause of hair loss and develop an appropriate treatment plan. Additionally, maintaining a healthy diet and lifestyle can also help promote healthy hair growth.
