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Male Hair Loss

Hair loss is a distressing condition for many who experience it. Male pattern hair loss commonly runs in families and many men have concerns about this from a young age. Hair loss in men is very commonly influenced by genetics and hormones. We are fortunate to have multiple treatments available for men to help prevent further loss and potentially regrow and thicken existing hairs for some patients. With continued medical treatment, many men can retain the hairs they have and prevent further thinning of existing hair. It does take time for the medication to take effect and it is recommended to stick with it for at least 1-2 years to assess how much improvement can be obtained.

Causes of Hair Loss in Men

Hair loss in men is usually attributed to hormones and genetics although other causes are possible. The hormone, dihydrotestosterone (DHT), is the major hormone tied to hair loss. DHT is a hormone that is converted from testosterone and it plays an important role in development of male characteristics during development. Later in life in genetically predisposed adults, high levels of DHT can affect androgen receptors in the scalp and cause miniaturization of hair follicles and cause follicles to stop producing hair.

Chronic stress and illness can also contribute to hair loss. There are also nutritional deficiencies, fungal infections, conditions like trichotillomania, and metabolic disturbance that can also influence hair loss.

How can I tell from my family if I will be affected by hair loss?

Although male pattern baldness is mostly genetic, certain people are more sensitive to hormones like DHT which create the environment for baldness to occur. It is commonly believed that hair loss in men is passed down from the mother’s side of the family, but, in truth, it is passed down from both sides of the family. Therefore, a strong family history on either side does make hair loss a possibility. Whenever you notice your hair starting to thin, it is a great idea to come in for a consultation to understand all options available as there are many treatments that can change the course of this condition.

Is there a cure for Male Pattern Baldness?

Hair transplantation is a great option for men that affords a dramatic change for men with balding and visible loss, but it is not a cure for male pattern baldness. Surgery and medical therapy work best in conjunction, and it is important to work with a hair restoration specialist who will also address the underlying cause of the baldness in order to enhance and prolong the effects of a transplant procedure.


Who is a candidate for a hair transplant?

Many men and women are candidates for a hair transplant. It is always best to come in for a consultation to understand if this is an option for you! There are some conditions that could make surgery contraindicated such as significant heart or kidney disease, uncontrolled scarring alopecia, uncontrolled autoimmune disease, total alopecia, diffuse unpatterned alopecia, total hair loss from chemotherapy, unstable hair loss, and certain considerations must be taken in very young patients

FAQs

  • Does hair loss come from my mother’s side?

    Hair loss can be passed down from either the mother’s or the father’s side and it can come from both male and female relatives. There are many genes that can contribute to hair loss in an individual patient.

  • When should I start treatment for hair loss?

    It is usually recommended to see a hair loss professional once thinning is first noticed. There is a benefit to starting treatment early as it can help you maintain the hair that you have at that time. That being said, even if you have noticed thinning for many years, it is still recommended to see a hair loss specialist to understand all options that are available and to start treatment as soon as possible. If you are interested in prevention, please see Dr. Bender to also talk about options!

713 321 2424 Schedule a Consultation
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713 321 2424 Schedule a Consultation