Male Pattern Baldness — Overview
You can learn full details about Male Pattern Baldness. Also here you know how to beat hair loss in starting stage. Baldness is most common in men. Keep reading to know more details.
What is Male pattern baldness?
Treatment for male pattern baldness
How to find hair loss starting stage
How to control hair loss in starting stage
Male pattern baldness happen in transgenders?
Baldness is healthy or unhealthy
The myth behind a male pattern baldness
What is Male pattern baldness ?
Male pattern baldness, also known as androgenic alopecia, is a common condition that causes hair loss in men. It’s a gradual process that typically begins at the temples and crown of the head, leading to a receding hairline and a horseshoe-shaped pattern of baldness.
Treatment for male pattern baldness
Male pattern baldness, also known as androgenic alopecia, is a common condition that causes hair loss in men. It’s a gradual process that typically begins at the temples and crown of the head, leading to a receding hairline and a horseshoe-shaped pattern of baldness.
There is no cure for male pattern baldness, but there are treatments that can slow down hair loss and, in some cases, promote hair regrowth. Here are some options:
Note** It’s important to talk to your doctor about the best treatment options for you. They can consider your individual medical history, hair loss pattern, and overall health to recommend the most appropriate course of treatment.
Treatments
Medications:
- Minoxidil (Rogaine):This is a topical medication that is available over-the-counter. It comes in liquid or foam form and is applied directly to the scalp twice a day. Minoxidil is thought to work by increasing blood flow to the scalp and stimulating hair follicles. It can take several months of regular use to see results, and you’ll need to continue using it to maintain any improvement.
- Finasteride (Propecia): This is a prescription medication that is only available to men. It works by blocking the conversion of testosterone into a hormone called DHT (dihydrotestosterone), which is thought to play a role in hair loss. Finasteride can also take several months to work, and it may not be effective for everyone. It’s important to note that finasteride can have side effects, such as decreased libido and erectile dysfunction.
Procedures
Hair transplant:This is a surgical procedure that involves transplanting hair follicles from the back of the scalp (where hair growth is typically more resistant to DHT) to the balding areas of the head. Hair transplants can be very effective, but they can also be expensive and time-consuming.
Laser therapy: Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) is a relatively new treatment for hair loss. It involves using a laser to deliver low doses of light energy to the scalp. LLLT is thought to work by stimulating hair follicles and promoting hair growth. However, there is still some debate about the effectiveness of LLLT for hair loss.
Lifestyle Changes
Scalp massage: There is some evidence that scalp massage may help to improve blood flow to the scalp and promote hair growth. However, more research is needed to confirm these benefits.
Stress management: Stress can contribute to hair loss. Finding healthy ways to manage stress, such as exercise or relaxation techniques, may help to reduce hair loss.
Diet and nutrition: There is no single diet that can prevent or reverse hair loss. However, eating a healthy diet that is rich in nutrients can help to support overall hair health.
when i find serious hair loss
Here are some signs that you might be experiencing serious hair loss and it’s time to see a doctor:
Excessive Hair Shedding: Noticeable hair loss exceeding 100 strands a day is a potential indicator. You might see more hair than usual in the shower, on your brush, or on your clothes.
Patchy Bald Spots: The development of bald patches on your scalp, particularly in a circular or horseshoe pattern, is a common sign of male pattern baldness. However, it’s important for a doctor to diagnose the cause.
Rapid Hair Loss: Sudden or rapid hair loss within a short period can be concerning. This could be due to an underlying medical condition, stress, or a medication side effect.
Scalp Irritation or Pain: Hair loss accompanied by redness, itching, scaling, or pain on the scalp could indicate an underlying scalp condition like scalp psoriasis or seborrheic dermatitis. A doctor can diagnose the cause and recommend appropriate treatment.
Hair Loss Pattern Different from Typical Male Pattern Baldness: Hair loss that doesn’t follow the usual receding hairline or crown thinning pattern in men (or the diffuse thinning pattern sometimes seen in women) warrants a visit to the doctor. This could be a sign of a different medical condition.
What you can do for Hair Loss
Monitor and Document: Keep an eye on your hair for a few weeks or months. Take pictures to compare hair density over time. This can help you determine if the hair loss is progressing.
Scalp Check: Gently examine your scalp for any signs of redness, scaling, or irritation. These could indicate an underlying scalp condition that might be contributing to hair loss.
Note:
These signs can be subtle, especially in the early stages.
Hair loss patterns can vary depending on your gender and individual situation.
how to find hair loss starting stage
How to beat hair loss in starting stage
Here are some strategies you can explore to potentially control hair loss in the starting stage:
Healthy Habits:
- Diet and Nutrition: Ensure you’re getting enough essential nutrients for healthy hair growth. Focus on a balanced diet rich in protein, iron, vitamins (especially A, B complex, D, and E), and minerals like zinc. Consider consulting a nutritionist for a personalized plan.
- Stress Management: Chronic stress can contribute to hair loss. Practice relaxation techniques like yoga, meditation, or deep breathing to manage stress effectively.
- Scalp Care: Maintain a clean and healthy scalp. Wash your hair regularly with a gentle shampoo and avoid harsh chemicals or hairstyles that put excessive stress on the hair follicles. Scalp massages might improve blood circulation to the scalp, but more research is needed to confirm their effectiveness for hair loss control.
Natural Remedies (limited evidence):
- Essential Oils: Some essential oils like rosemary or peppermint oil, when diluted and used topically, might stimulate hair growth. However, research is limited, and it’s crucial to dilute them properly to avoid scalp irritation. Consult a dermatologist before using any essential oils on your scalp.
- Green Tea: Green tea is rich in antioxidants that might promote hair health. Drinking green tea or applying a diluted green tea rinse to the scalp (after consulting a dermatologist) are potential options, but more research is needed to confirm their effectiveness.
Note: Medication related solutions already we told in this page under treatment topic.
Male pattern baldness happen in transgenders?
Yes, male pattern baldness (MPB) can happen in transgender people, specifically transgender men. Here’s why:
Baldness is healthy or unhealthy
Baldness itself isn’t inherently unhealthy. It’s a common condition, especially for men as they age. However, it can be a sign of underlying health issues in some cases. Here’s a breakdown:
Baldness as a Normal Condition:
- Genetics: Male pattern baldness, the most common form of hair loss, is primarily determined by genetics. It’s not a sign of poor health.
- Age: Hair loss due to male pattern baldness is a natural part of the aging process for many men.
Baldness as a Potential Indicator:
- Underlying Conditions: In some cases, sudden or unusual hair loss can be a symptom of an underlying medical condition, such as thyroid problems, iron deficiency, or scalp infections.
When to See a Doctor
Sudden or Excessive Hair Loss: If you experience rapid or significant hair loss, especially if it’s patchy or accompanied by other symptoms like scalp irritation or pain, consult a doctor.
Underlying Concerns: If you’re concerned about the potential health implications of your hair loss, a doctor can diagnose the cause and recommend appropriate treatment.
Hair Loss and Overall Health
Psychological Impact: While baldness isn’t unhealthy in itself, it can affect your emotional well-being and self-esteem. There are various hair loss treatments available if you’d like to explore options for maintaining a fuller head of hair.
Maintaining a Healthy Lifestyle: Regardless of whether you have hair or not, a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet, regular exercise, and stress management is crucial for overall health.
the myth behind a male pattern baldness
There are many myths surrounding male pattern baldness (MPB). Here are some of the most common ones:
Myth: Shaving your head makes your hair grow back thicker or faster.
Reality: Shaving only removes the existing hair shaft and doesn’t affect the hair follicle or its growth cycle. The hair might feel stubbly at first because the cut end is blunt, but hair thickness and texture are determined by genetics and hormones, not shaving.
Myth: Wearing hats or helmets causes baldness.
Reality: There’s no scientific evidence to support this. Hair loss is primarily caused by genetics and hormones, not restricted airflow to the scalp.
Myth: You inherit baldness from your mother’s side of the family.
Reality: While genetics play a role, hair loss genes can come from either parent. Look at both sides of your family for potential baldness patterns.
Myth: Frequent haircuts or shampooing causes baldness.
Reality: Clean hair is healthy hair! Regular haircuts remove split ends, and shampooing removes dirt and promotes a healthy scalp environment. Neither affects hair loss due to MPB.
Myth: Stress causes baldness.
Reality: While stress can contribute to temporary hair shedding, it doesn’t directly cause MPB. However, chronic stress can worsen existing hair loss.
Myth: Bald men have more testosterone.
Reality: Testosterone levels can be similar in bald and non-bald men. It’s not the amount of testosterone, but how your body converts it to DHT (dihydrotestosterone) that plays a role in MPB. DHT can shrink hair follicles and lead to hair loss in genetically predisposed individuals.
Myth: There’s no treatment for baldness.
Reality: While there’s no cure for MPB, there are effective treatments available. Medications like Minoxidil and Finasteride can slow down hair loss and promote some regrowth. Hair transplants are another option for some men.
When i shave my baldness, Hair regrowth is Possible ?
Shaving your head does not directly cause hair regrowth for male pattern baldness (MPB). Here’s why:
Hair Growth Cycle: Hair grows from follicles in the scalp. These follicles go through growth, resting, and shedding phases. Shaving only removes the existing hair shaft, not affecting the follicle itself or its growth cycle.
Myth of Thicker Hair: Some people believe shaving makes hair grow back thicker or darker. This is a misconception. The hair might feel stubbly at first because the cut end is blunt, but the texture and thickness are determined by genetics and hormones, not shaving.
Possible Benefits of Shaving:
- Maintaining Hygiene: A shaved head can be easier to keep clean, which can be beneficial for scalp health.
- Improved Appearance (for some): Some men prefer the look of a shaved head and find it easier to maintain than thinning hair.
FAQ
Male pattern baldness (MPB) itself isn’t risky in terms of physical health. It’s a common condition with a genetic predisposition, and many men experience it as they age. However, there are some potential risks and considerations: Low Risk for Physical Health, Potential Psychological Impact, and Other Conditions.