Hair Loss Causes in Men
The most common cause for hair loss in men is male pattern baldness. Up to 90% of men suffering hair loss can be attributed to male pattern baldness. Male pattern baldness is medically referred to as Androgenetic Alopecia. It is caused by hormones, specifically androgens, and is genetic. The genes for male pattern baldness can be inherited from either the maternal or paternal side of the family or both.
The Role of DHT
The hair follicles in men with this gene have a sensitivity response to Dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT is actually a by-product of testosterone and is found in the scalp. Hair follicles with this sensitivity to DHT have a shortened lifespan and will eventually cease to produce hair. The DHT shrinks hair follicles which results in reduced hair growth. By suppressing the production of DHT, hair follicles will respond positively and resume hair growth.
Characteristics of Male Pattern Baldness
Typically hair loss can be characterized by the hairline receding. Hair will thin at the crown and overall hair will become thinner and shorter. Male pattern baldness can have various hair loss patterns as documented by the Norwood-Hamilton Scale. The scale measures thinning hair / hair loss progression from level I through VII. Level VII is the most significant degree of hair loss.
Other Hair Loss Causes in Men
Not all hair loss in men is attributable to Androgenetic Alopecia. Medical illness, stress and other forms of disease can result in men losing their hair. Following are some of these other common causes of hair loss in men:
- Autoimmune Skin Conditions: healthy hair follicles are attacked by white blood cells. This autoimmune condition can be linked to other illnesses such as thyroid disease, lupus, certain allergies, rheumatoid arthritis and more.
- Alopecia Areata: hair loss in patches / spots throughout the scalp.
- Alopecia Totalis: hair loss on the entire scalp.
- Alopecia Universalis: complete hair loss all over the body.
- Traction Alopecia: cause by too much tension on the scalp. For example too tight ponytails or cornrows.
- Hypotrichosis: a more rare condition whereby there was never any hair growth at all since birth.
- Telogen Effluvium: hair loss triggered by stress to the body
- Major surgery
- Extreme levels of stress
- Severe dieting or dramatic weight loss
- Side effects to certain medications
- Cancer Treatment: Hair Loss as a result of chemotherapy or radiation
Fortunately, today there are a variety of solutions depending on the degree and type of hair loss men are experiencing. These solutions are effective and don’t have to cost a fortune. Contact us today to find out how we can help with your hair loss.