Male pattern baldness, or androgenetic alopecia, can strike men in their teens, twenties and thirties. A receding hairline is the first symptom of this form of permanent hair loss that accounts for the majority of hair-loss cases in men. Approximately one-third of men have this form of hair loss, according to MayoClinic.com. Although androgenetic alopecia can affect men in their teens, the chances of developing the condition usually increase with age.
Symptoms
The first symptom of androgenetic alopecia is a receding hairline. Hair begins to thin at the temples, forming what is known as a widow’s peak. As the condition progresses, the crown and top of the head thins. In advanced stages, the entire top of the head is bald. Some hair may continue to grow above the ears and in the nape, forming a ring of hair at the base of the head.
Heredity
Heredity determines several hair-loss factors including the chance of hair loss, the age at which hair loss occurs and the speed and pattern of hair loss. A history of hair loss on either side of the family increases the chances you will experience baldness. A strong history on both sides of the family greatly increases the chances for hair loss, according to MayoClinic.com.
Cause
Ninety-five percent of hair loss is caused by the buildup of dihydrotestosterone, or DHT, in the scalp, according to Medical News Today. DHT, a byproduct of the male hormone testosterone, slows and halts hair growth in several ways. First, DHT prevents vitamins, proteins and minerals from reaching the hair-growing structures of the scalp. Without adequate nutrition, the structures produce hair slowly and for a shorter length of time, resulting in hair loss. DHT also shrinks hair follicles, resulting in thinner and weaker hair growth. Eventually, follicles shrink to a point where hair growth can no longer be supported. Lastly, DHT forms a waxy substance in the follicles, directly surrounding the hair-growing structures.
Treatments
Treatments for androgenetic alopecia include minoxidil, finasteride, hair-transplant surgery and scalp reduction procedures. Wigs and hairpieces may also be used to cover or hide hair loss.
Outlook
MedlinePlus refers to androgenetic alopecia as a permanent condition. Drugs such as minoxidil and finasteride slow hair loss and produce new growth in some men; however, the effects of these treatments are not permanent. Hair loss reverts to the state prior to treatment once treatment is halted. Surgical procedures are more successful. Hair-plugging techniques restore hair permanently. Scalp-reduction techniques remove bald portions of scalp completely, but need to be repeated as loss progresses and more area becomes affected.
Member Comments