The Facts Of Male Pattern Baldness To be Aware Of

thinning hair

Also called androgenetic alopecia, male pattern baldness affects more than forty million men in the United States. In fact, about twenty-five percent of men experience male baldness by the age of thirty, while some begin as late as age 60. This common hair loss problem in men is permanent, occurring in characteristic patterns on the scalp. The cause of the male hair loss problem is far too complex to understand, experts say. However, based on the medical name, this problem involves two general factors: hormones and genetics.

Contrary to popular belief, wearing caps does not cause baldness or thinning hair. Baldness hair loss is hereditary. Brushing and massaging the scalp does not help to regrow healthy hair. Also, extensively cleaning the scalp has not been proven to unclog the follicles and allow hair regrowth. Baldness is somehow caused by extreme psychological stress. There are two known types of baldness, namely alopecia areata and traction alopecia. Alopecia areata causes patchy hair losses on the scalp and its main cause is said to be a result of the immune system of the body attacking the hair follicles. Experts say this type of baldness is untreatable. Traction alopecia results from pulling the hair for long periods of time and is caused by hairstyles like tight braids. This can be resolved once the pulling of the hair is eliminated.

Male pattern baldness is not considered a medical disorder. Although there are some men who opt to just let the process run its course, there are some who desire to be treated, as it can lead to depression and anxiety. Baldness in men can be treated by prescription medications and surgical treatments. Prescription medications include Minoxidil (Rogaine) and Finasteride (Propecia). This option is ideal for men who are having thinning hair at an earlier stage. At present, only these two medications are duly approved by the Food and Drug Administration. For surgical treatments, hair transplantation and scalp reduction are two options. However, since this is a surgical procedure, there are certain risks, such as infection and scarring.

Cosmetic treatments are perhaps the easiest and most convenient way to deal with male pattern baldness. For men who are not comfortable with medications or surgical procedures, a toupee or hair piece might do the trick, and there are lots of shops today that make custom made toupees to cover the balding area. Options for baldness is a big issue among men today, so if you are contemplating or considering these procedures, be sure to discuss the pros and cons with your doctor.