Male Pattern Baldness

Male hair loss is very common. It is often the result of genetics and caused by the effect of the male hormones, called androgens, on genetically predisposed hair follicles. This type of hair loss is known as male pattern baldness and technically referred to as androgenetic alopecia. Other causes of hair loss in men include autoimmune diseases that can lead to alopecia areata (patchy bald spots), fungal infections that result in tinea capitas (or scalp ringworm), and some medications and treatments such as chemotherapy. In almost all cases of thinning, it is recommended to seek medical advice.

Many treatments have been developed, manufactured, produced and marketed to address hair loss in men. Two treatments and one phototherapy device are licensed and approved by government medical authorities in the United Kingdom and the Unites States for the treatment of male hair loss.

Causes

Male pattern baldness is the cause of hair loss in men in more than 95% of cases. According to statistics, 25% of men begin balding by age 30 and two-thirds begin balding by age 60. Male pattern baldness is triggered by the sex hormone dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which is created from testosterone by the enzyme 5-alpha reductase. In those with a genetic predisposition to hair loss, DHT initiates a process of follicular miniaturisation. As the hair follicle deteriorates, the hair growth phase (anagen) is shortened, and the hair shaft is prevented from growing and maturing into the deeply rooted and pigmented hair. In time, hair becomes thinner. If left untreated the follicle will go dormant and stop producing hair completely.

Other causes of hair loss in men can include nutritional deficiencies, stress, chronic inflammation, medical conditions, autoimmune disorders, telogen effluvium, and a variety of other reasons.

In almost all cases of hair loss, it is recommended to seek medical advice to determine whether genetics or a health-related issue is the cause of the condition.

Diagnosis

Male pattern balness initially and typically affects the temples and the crown of the scalp, with hair either thinning or falling out. The progression of male pattern baldness is generally classified on the Hamilton–Norwood scale (first introduced by Dr James Hamilton in the 1950s and later revised and updated by Dr O’Tar Norwood in the 1970s).

Treatment

Many hair loss products are developed, produced and marketed for the treatment of male pattern baldness. They include a range of nutritional supplements, shampoos and scalp treatments, laser therapy devices, and prescription medications. Of all the hair loss products on the market, only two treatments and one phototherapy device are licensed and approved by government medical authorities in the United Kingdom and the Unites States for the treatment of male hair loss. These include Propecia, Minoxidil, and the HairMax LaserComb.