Hair loss is a common occurrence which is associated with aging, specially among men. In a survey by U.S. National Library of Medicine, it effects more than 50 percent of men above 50 years of age. Male pattern baldness, a for of alopecia known as androgenic alopecia can vary from person to person with the most common pattern being hair loss above both temples. This pattern develops into a more defined “M” like shape with time and the hairline recedes at the crown resulting in partial or total baldness.
What are the causes?
Well, the first and foremost cause which is to be blamed for this condition is genetics. In case of genetic inheritance, a male sex hormone called androgen, which is also responsible for regulating hair growth, is overproduced. These increased levels of androgen cause the growth cycle of hair to decrease by shrinking hair follicles and producing finer hair strands. Over time, the growth cycle of each hair ends resulting in no new hair growth at its place.
Other causes of might include more serious cases like cancer, thyroid conditions, medications and anabolic steroids. You should visit your doctor incase you experience hair loss accompanied with other health complaints after staring a new medication. Usually, if you experience rash, redness, peeling of scalp, pain, hair breakage or patchy har loss, it may be a result of health condition. Skin biopsy and blood tests may be required in such a case.
Who is at risk?
Since the most common cause of male pattern baldness is genetics, if you have a close family member with the same condition, specially from your maternal side of the family, you are most likely to acquire the same either in your teenage years or in your adulthood which will increase as you age further.
What can be done?
There are three most common treatments to address male pattern baldness.
- Finasteride (Propecia, Proscar)
Finasteride is an oral medication that has proven to slow hair loss and even help regrow new hair in some men. This medication basically blocks the production of androgen hormone which is responsible for hair loss. However, in order for the treatment to be effective, the medication needs to be continued. Although an easier form of treatment, it is associated with some health risks including breast cancer.
- Minoxidil (Rogaine)
This is also a topical medication which is applied to the scalp. Although less effective than finasteride, this medication has also resulted in reducing hair loss and new hair growth in some men, however, it needs to be taken for at least four months to a year to show effective results. Also, the hair loss may return if you stop using the medication. Side effects include dryness, irritation and scaling of scalp.
- Hair Transplants
Hair transplants, although most effective, are the most expensive and most invasive treatment to hair loss. Hairs from more active hair growth areas are removed and transplanted to thinning and balding areas. Although it is a permanent solution, multiple procedures may be required and it carries the risk of scarring and infection.
Is there a better way?
Scalp micropigmentation is emerging as a popular option now a days as a hair loss treatment given it is non invasive and a lot less expensive than hair transplants. This is also a permanent treatment. The only thing to be taken care of is a proper due diligence for choosing the right practitioner for the treatment, since there is no formal training required to become one. This is where SMP of Austin can help you. Our artists have been trained by the very best industry experts, the ones who invented scalp micropigmentation. We provide the best hair loss treatment in Austin with the best customer service. Call us at (512) 980-1209 to schedule an appointment today!
