Male Pattern Baldness -

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Male pattern baldness (AKA True Baldness) can be linked to family history, androgen levels (male sex hormones) and increasing age. Men are more acceptable about going bald (yes, we wish it wouldn’t happen) because it is expected with age. (Eye care).

Our skin ages faster, with men age can bring a receding hairline. Usually it starts at the front of the scalp. Gradually, the hair is left only on the sides of the head. This hair loss pattern is called androgenetic alopecia. (You may also be interested in Men’s Skincare.)

Hair follicles shrink after age 40. The hair becomes shorter and finer as it stays in the resting stage longer. More vellus hair may be noticed. Eventually, new hair will not grow from the follicle.

But for those who are attached to their hair, you can admit it; there are things that can be done.

Androgenetic Alopecia

Androgenetic alopecia is basically a hormonal condition. A harmful testosterone byproduct interferes with the normal hair growth.

The cause may be the hair follicles are under producing. This leads to the thinning hairline.

Androgenetic alopecia is a receding hairline with the addition of a bald spot at the back of the head. This eventually, leaves that U-shaped pattern around the head. So blame it on the hormones.

There are also other rarer forms of alopecia for men.

Medical Hair Loss

We have all heard of side effects from taking some medications. Not only chemotherapy and radiation treatments can cause hair loss but also some oral medications. Once the treatment is done the hair usually returns.

Hair loss can also result from an underlying condition. You may want to consult your Doctor concerning a cause.

To prevent hair loss happening from a medication research it before taking, look for alternatives if possible.

Traction Alopecia

Regularly pulling your hair back in a ponytail or “man bun” can lead to hair loss. (Women can also get this).

These hairstyles put tension on the hair, stretching it out. This can cause scarring to the hair follicles and lead to permanent hair loss.

Change hairstyles off to prevent this. Leave hair down as much as possible. Take a break from pulling back.

Trichotillomania

We are now becoming more aware of this body-focused repetitive behavior. It includes the pulling or twisting of the hair. This also causes scarring of the hair follicles leading to permanent hair loss.

There are support groups for this condition.

Norwood Scale

Diagnosis stages 1 to 7 may be made with the Norwood scale. James Hamilton introduced the scale in the 1950s. Dr. O’Tar Norwood improved on this in the 1970s.

Treatment

There is no cure for baldness. Medications can be used.

Minoxidil (Rogaine) is most often prescribed as a foam or liquid form. It has been around for some time. It may help to thicken the hairs and encourage hair growth on the scalp. Results may not be noticeable for months.

Also Finasteride (Propecia), however, these medications can be expensive (check with your insurance) and cause side effects.

Although men are hesitant to shop for wigs and toupees they are increasing in popularity. These also have a more realistic appearance then years before.

And there are surgical transplants. Some men have had success with hair transplants. The surgeon takes a small patch of healthy hair follicles from your scalp. These are implanted on the balding areas. It improves the appearance.

Talk to your doctor about which treatment is best for you. Do your research. Will your insurance cover anything?

If the hair loss is due to genetics and aging, it necessarily won’t grow back. There is no way to prevent it. If you are concerned or it is bothersome there are options.

One can always accept the aging process and go with it. Some people (yes women too) just shave the head.

Disclaimer: No endorsements for pay or otherwise are included in this blog.

This website is for informational purposes and not for diagnosis.

If you have a health condition or concern, please consult your doctor.

Researching content:

https://www.menprovement.com/how-to-accept-losing-your-hair/ lost hair as young man

https://www.wantmorehair.com/mens-hair-loss.html?utm_source=en Transitions of WI accessed 06/24/2020

https://ghr.nlm.nih.gov/condition/androgenetic-alopecia accessed 06/24/2020

https://www.uspharmacist.com/article/treatment-options-for-androgenetic-alopecia

accessed 06/24/2020

https://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/hair-loss/men-hair-loss-17/hair-transplants accessed 06/24/2020

https://robbreport.com/lifestyle/health-wellness/the-best-hair-transplant-method-for-men-2903069/ accessed 06/24/2020