Male pattern baldness is a common condition seen in many men as they age. Baldness is caused naturally due to genetics and the presence of male hormones. However, there are several treatment options to help fight male pattern baldness by both preventing hair loss and regrowing new hair.
Male Pattern Baldness
Male pattern baldness is the most common type of hair loss in men. It is characterized by a receding hairline and thinning hair around the crown of the head. Male pattern baldness is genetic and is caused by male sex hormones. Hair grows from follicles, small cavities on the surface of the head. In men who are balding, the follicle shrinks and causes shorter, finer hair, and eventually no hair at all. Under normal circumstances, hair would grow back. However, when balding, a new hair fails to grow back, resulting in permanent hair loss.
Medication
There are several treatment options for male pattern baldness. One of the most common is medication. Two popular medications are Rogaine and Propecia, both of which are FDA approved.
Rogaine is applied to your scalp to help to regrow hair and prevent further hair loss. It may take up to 12 weeks to regrow hair. The new hair should be able to cover bald spots, but it may be shorter and thinner than your natural hair. Propecia is a pill form of medication taken daily. It works by stopping a hormone that shrinks hair follicles. Results for both Rogaine and Propecia will vary from patient to patient.
Hair Transplant
If other treatments are not effective, you may opt for hair transplant. Hair transplant is a more invasive option, but its results can be very effective. During the procedure, a surgeon will remove small skin plugs containing hairs from the back and side of your scalp. The plugs are then planted on your bald spots.
Scalp Reduction
Scalp reduction is another surgical treatment for male pattern baldness. Your scalp is made of flexible skin that can be stretched. In a scalp reduction, the hairless parts of the skin are removed and the scalp is stretched so that the top of the head is covered with hair.
Hairpieces
If all else fails, you may choose to simply wear a hairpiece. Hairpieces and wigs are a simple solution and can be used for temporary or permanent hair loss.
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