Understanding Hair Loss in Men: Causes and Treatments

As we age, our hair may need a little extra assistance to stay in good health and avoid issues like hair loss, which can be quite frustrating and leave us bewildered! A person generally has around 100,000 hair follicles, which will fall out and grow back in a cycle that ranges between 2-7 years. However, with age, the length of these cycles can decrease considerably leading to the total depletion of its capillary potential. This condition of ‘hair loss’ is known to be more common in men.

Let’s meet Dr. Kheeldass JUGUN, Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon, specialised in plastic, reconstructive and cosmetic surgery, who has some effective advice on hair care and treatments for hair loss.

What are the main causes of hair loss in men?

Hair loss in men typically progresses with age, often starting in the late teenage years to early twenties, and is predominantly influenced by two main factors:

Genetics: This factor plays a significant role. For example, a family history of hair loss increases the likelihood of experiencing this condition.
Hormonal: Hormonal hair loss in men, commonly known as male pattern baldness or androgenetic alopecia, is primarily influenced by genetic factors and the hormone dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT, a derivative of testosterone, shrinks hair follicles, leading to shorter hair growth cycles and thinner hair.

What about the condition ‘Alopecia Areata’?

Alopecia areata is an autoimmune disorder characterised by patchy hair loss. This condition occurs when the immune system erroneously attacks hair follicles, leading to sudden hair loss on the scalp and other parts of the body. The severity of hair loss can vary, with some cases resolving spontaneously, while others may persist or progress to total hair loss (alopecia totalis) or complete loss of body hair (alopecia universalis). The precise cause remains unclear, but genetic and environmental factors are believed to contribute. Treatment options may include corticosteroids and other therapies aimed at promoting hair regrowth and managing symptoms.

Hair Care Tips

Effective hair care and treatment for hair loss depend on the underlying causes. The common methods include:

Gentle cleansing: Use a mild shampoo to avoid stripping natural oils. Wash your hair regularly, but not excessively.
Conditioning: Make use of a high-quality conditioner to maintain hair hydration and manageability.
Avoid heat styling: Minimise the use of heat tools (such as straighteners and curling irons) to reduce hair damage.
Healthy diet and supplementation: Maintain a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals, including biotin, iron, zinc, and vitamins A, C, D, and E.
Hydration: Drink plenty of water to keep the hair and scalp hydrated.
Scalp care: Regularly massage the scalp to improve blood circulation.

Is regrowth possible?

Treatment for hair loss can vary depending on the cause and severity of the condition. Here are some common treatment approaches:

Lifestyle and home remedies:

Diet: Ensuring a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals (e.g., biotin, zinc).

Scalp care: Gentle cleansing and scalp massages can improve blood circulation.

Hair transplant surgery:

FUT (Follicular Unit Transplantation): A strip of scalp is removed, and hair follicles are transplanted.

FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction): Individual hair follicles are extracted and transplanted.

Laser therapy:

Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT): Used to stimulate hair follicles and promote hair growth.

Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy:

Involves drawing blood, processing it to concentrate the platelets, and injecting it into the scalp to encourage hair growth.

Wigs and hairpieces:

For those who prefer non-medical options, wigs and hairpieces can provide a cosmetic solution.

Medications:

Some prescribed or OTC medications can also help stimulate hair growth and even reduce hair loss by inhibiting hormone changes.

Supplements for maintenance and treatment

Perfectil Hair, Hairfollic Him and Hairfollic Her from Vitabiotics have been developed to help get the comprehensive support and attention your hair need. These supplements contain a variety of nutrients, all of which contribute to maintaining normal hair. Biocyte also offers innovative supplements such as Keratine Forte Serum and Keratine Forte Full Spectrum to help stimulate hair growth and regain strength and vitality, while Keratine Forte Anti-Chute is known and recommended for its anti-hair loss formula.