Male Pattern Hair Loss
Not too long ago, we talked about Female Pattern Hair Loss, today, we will dive a little further Androgenic Hair loss as it pertains to Men, keeping in mind that much of this information is transferable to women as well. Male pattern Hair loss (MPHL) or Androgenic Alopecia (AGA) is the most common cause of hair loss in men, with 70% of men having noticeable hair loss by age of 50 years, Hair ultimately helps to define how we see ourselves and hair loss is equally distressing for men affecting confidence, professional and social activities. Naturally then, it would be no surprise hair restoration is one of the fastest growing industries. Men, like women, equally seek out hair improvement solutions.
Hair loss in men can start post puberty, but early onset hair loss (prior to 30 years) predicts a more severe form of MPHL. Genetics and hormone activity are the primary reason for hair loss in men, so let’s start there. Hair loss is determined by the number and location of androgenic receptors on the scalp, and also, the necessary enzymes to convert testosterone to androgen. On the scalp androgen causes hair loss, elsewhere, hair growth. As aging occurs androgen receptors on the scalp become more sensitive to androgen causing miniaturization of the hair follicle leading to thinning, loss of density and balding.
Patients often ask, am I going to suffer the same destiny as my bald older brother? Not necessarily, there are over 200 genes involved in determining hair fate, thus balding patterns may even skip a generation. And again, there is more to understand about healthy hair.mBeyond genetics and hormones, the hair follicle needs a proper functioning stem cell, good blood flow, nerve communication, unclogged hair follicles, healthy scalp, nutrients, vitamins and minerals to support cellular function, hair shaft development and growth. The goal is always to improve or normalize the growth phase (anagen) and reduce duration of the shedding phase (telogen).
So during the consultation it is necessary to tease through the history helping to determine hair loss types as there are many, as well identify possible other contributing factors. This may mean blood work to rule out nutrition deficiencies, blood work abnormalities such as anemia, thyroid dysfunction, even examine the scalp for dandruff, oil concerns which may affect the growth and health of the hair. Patterns of Hair loss also point to one direction vs another. For example, hair loss on the crown and or temples suggests more of a hormone pattern vs general thinning, which may have other factors contributing. Sometimes a trichoscope may be used to look at the scalp, the hair follicle and the hair shaft as well. This can provide additional clues helpful for treatment.
While many treatments are suitable for most, hair restoration program should be tailored to your needs. Pharmacology is often helpful in Androgenic Hair loss, often aimed at reducing androgenic impact on the scalp. There are other medications that improve blood flow to the hair follicle. This will be often paired with PRP or exosomes and micro needling. With this treatment, important growth factors are delivered to the hair follicle to stimulate hair growth, improve the quality of the hair, normalize the hair cycle. Of course, specific shampoos and vitamins may be necessary or helpful. Remember, multipronged approach can be very helpful.
When Should I Seek?
Another common question is, “When should I seek help?” Of course, the answer is always sooner rather than later. There are things you can do to promote hair health and prevent hair loss. However, in cases of advanced hair loss with significant balding, hair follicular transplantation may be necessary for the best results. Regardless of the stage of hair loss, whether early or late, it is beneficial to promote hair growth, maintain the health of existing hair, and stimulate inactive but still viable hair follicles.