Male Hair Loss Solutions

Male hair loss is common. It usually begins as a receding hairline. Although there is a wealth of information about the causes of hair loss, the science of hair restoration remains imperfect. If you have started to notice that your hair is thinning, it is a good idea to become familiar with the solutions that can help you.

Causes

The Foundation of Hair Restoration says that androgenic alopecia accounts for 95 percent of hair-loss cases. Androgenic alopecia in men is known as male-pattern baldness. Male-pattern baldness is the result of the hormone dihydrotestertone shrinking hairs that are genetically prone to thinning. Hairs are shed prematurely in their growth cycle.

Prevention

The Food and Drug Administration has approved minoxidil as a nonprescription treatment for hair loss. Both 2 percent and 5 percent formulas are available. It's believed that minoxidil promotes hair growth by increasing circulation in the scalp.
The FDA also has approved finasteride for male-pattern baldness. The American Hair Loss Association says that finasteride reduces DHT levels in the blood. The association reports that oral finasteride has helped stop the progression of hair loss in 86 percent of the men who have used it.
Men can also use ketoconazole shampoo to treat androgenic alopecia. Unlike other shampoos, ketoconazole shampoo can be as effective as 2 percent minoxidil in slowing hair loss. In a Belgian study published in a 1998 "Journal of Dermatology," researchers found that the shampoo improved hair thickness and the quantity of hair in a way that was "nearly similar" to regular-strength minoxidil.

Professional Insight

Dr. Robert Bernstein, senior member of the International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery, says that finasteride and minoxidil are effective, but only if the user still has some hair in the areas where it is being used. He advises using the treatments for a year. If results are disappointing, hair transplant is an option.

Permanent Solution

Only surgical hair restoration can produce a lasting result. The Hair Transplant Network says that hair transplanted to balding areas are genetically resistant to thinning and will grow for a lifetime. Transplanted follicles will begin to grow at about three months but take up to 12 months to fully mature. A good transplant is not detectable.

Warning

Using finasteride or minoxidil are usually lifetime commitments. The Hair Transplant Network notes that it will be at least three months before any obvious changes can be noticed. Like Dr. Bernstein, the Hair Transplant Network recommends an entire year on both medications simultaneously before evaluating their effectiveness. If you suddenly stop taking these medications, your alopecia will return.