Most men with hair loss suffer from common genetic thinning based on family history. Did you know there are other reasons why men lose hair? Following are the 5 main reasons men experience hair loss.
- AGA (Androgenetic Alopecia)
This is the most common type of hair loss. Androgenetic Alopecia (AGA) or “Male Pattern Baldness” is due to the prevalence of the hormone Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) which acts on genetically sensitive hair follicles causing them to miniaturize over their growth cycle. Over time, this “miniaturization” process leads to the appearance of thinning or balding.
This type of hair loss can be treated with medication and/or surgery depending upon the age of the patient, the extent of hair loss and availability of donor hair. The most effective medication for AGA is Finasteride which blocks DHT. Surgical hair restoration can be performed by one of several methods – either Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT) using a strip or Follicular Unit Excision (FUE) where follicles are removed one-by-one from the back of the scalp.
- Alopecia Areata
Alopecia Areata is an autoimmune condition where the body produces antibodies against its own hair follicles. It is characterized by the sudden appearance of patches of bald spots on the scalp, facial or other parts of the body. Treatment consists of steroid medication.
- Telogen Effluvium
Telogen Effluvium is a condition where hair is shifted into its resting phase and then several months later is shed. This can be caused by several medications and many different medical conditions or intense stress. Telogen Effluvium is usually reversible once the stressor resolves and specific medical treatment is not needed. Full resolution takes up to 1-2 years.
- Trichotillomania
Trichotillomania is a compulsive disorder characterized by pulling of one’s hair. While the scalp is the most common location, patients may also pluck their beard, eyebrows or eyelashes. It results in patchy areas of hair loss. Treatment consists of a hair transplant surgery.
- Lichen Planopilaris (LPP)
Lichen Planopilaris (LPP) is a type of scarring hair loss that is caused by inflammation. It shows up as localized scaly, red patches that eventually results in scarring and hair loss. This incidence of this condition has been increasing lately and is now more readily recognized by dermatologists. Treatment includes oral and topical steroids.
“It is important that patients who experience hair loss have a consultation with a hair growth specialist or a dermatologist to make sure that the diagnosis is correct and the treatment appropriate.”
