Hair loss in men is often a result of male-pattern baldness, or androgenetic alopecia. It's a condition that starts slowly, typically without the individual even detecting any thinning along the hairline or crown of the head. However, he may notice that the drain of the tub is collecting more hair than normal. Although there isn't necessarily a medical reason to seek treatment for hair loss, early detection can help to prevent further thinning, since most medications only provide minimal hair "regrowth," but can slow or even stop hair loss.
Symptoms
Standard hair loss in men typically begins with a recession in the hair line along the forehead and temples, according to the Mayo Clinic. It may also begin with a thinning along the crown of the head. This is a gradual loss of hair that may not show true signs of hair loss until a great number of the follicles have ceased or slowed in the production of hair. If the hair is falling out at a great rate or in an uneven pattern, such as in patches, it may be an indication of another condition. In this situation, it's advisable that individuals contact their primary physician or a dermatologist.
Features
With male-pattern baldness, it's commonly a result of genetics. The follicles of the hair are more susceptible to dihydrotestosterone, or DHT, which is a by-product of the hormone testosterone, suggests the American Hair Loss Association. DHT essentially adheres to the follicle, causing it to shrink. When this happens, the growth cycle of the hair becomes shorter than average, reducing their length and circumference. This affects the way in which the hair is rooted into the scalp, causing an abnormally high amount of shedding until the affected follicles cease to grow hair.
Medical Treatment
The American Academy of Dermatology offers two options to treat this form of hair loss. The first is minoxidil, which is a topical medication that is applied directly to the scalp twice a day to slow hair loss as well as potentially cause the growth of hair that has been lost. The second is finasteride, which is an oral prescription that is taken daily to slow hair loss and could encourage new hair growth.
Cosmetic Treatment
If minoxidil and finasteride fail to provide results, there are cosmetic options to improve the thickness of the hair. Besides the use of a hair piece, men can treat their baldness with hair restoration surgeries. A couple of options are available, such as scalp reductions or hair transplants. With a scalp reduction, a portion of the scalp suffering hair loss is removed. The wound is then sutured and allowed to heal. This reduces the area of hair loss and is often followed with a hair transplant. A hair transplant is a procedure that simply harvests viable follicles from other areas of the scalp and transplants along balding areas.
Time Frame
With hair transplants, it may take upwards of six months, according to the American Academy of Dermatology, to see an improvement in the hairline. After the follicles are transplanted, it isn't uncommon for the hair to shed within the first month. From there, it may take an additional two months to see hair growth.
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