Male pattern baldness (androgenetic alopecia) arises as men age, and the hormone levels gradually change. And this is a genuine part of the aging process for most men. But, as strong as the big guys look, this could be so distressing.
So, what causes the female pattern baldness in men? Androgens are high levels of male sex hormones that direct to hair loss in men. And it’s also felt that these contribute to the female pattern of baldness. Smoking increases the risk of this effect.
Other factors contributing to this are genetics which is likely to affect male-pattern baldness.
These factors slowly shrink the cavities in the skin. And it starts at the base of the hair. As a result, your hair starts to grow shorter and thinner until it stops growing gradually.
At least 50%of white men generate some degree of baldness. But it relies on their age, as this starts from 50 years and is genetic. And there are 80% of the same group with male pattern baldness by the age of 70 years. Few ethnic groups like Chinese and Japanese are less affected.
Major Causes of Pattern Baldness
Several health conditions have been long linked with hair loss, such as prostate cancer, diabetes, high blood pressure, hypertension, and obesity. Stress may also contribute to female pattern baldness in men.
Did you know hair loss might be a symptom of a health condition like a fungal infection, lupus, or thyroid problem?
There are multiple genetic changes linked to female pattern baldness in men. But research confirms the androgen receptor (AR) gene.
Other studies suggest that prostaglandin D2 in some men’s scalps (abnormal quantity of protein) may lead to hair loss.
Symptoms of Female Pattern Baldness
Hair thinning is distinct when comparing male pattern baldness with female pattern baldness. So, in FPHL, these are the possible symptoms:
- Hair starts to thin primarily on the top and crown of the scalp. It begins with a widening in the center hair part. Most people refer to this pattern as a Christmas tree pattern.
- The front hairline remains intact except for the normal recession that everyone experiences in time.
- In FPHL, hair loss rarely results in total or near baldness.
Symptoms of Male Pattern Baldness
- Men start to lose hair at the temples or the crown of their heads.
- A single bald spot.
- Others will have their hairlines reduce to form an “M” shape.
- The hairline continues to recede, and most of the hair disappears.
Hair Loss Treatments
While it’s unavoidable to experience hair loss as you age, you can find male or female baldness treatments available.
However, some men may look at hair loss as part of aging, and they don’t seek treatment. But others experience a negative psychological effect that may lead to low self-esteem and depression.
Below are some of the available that may help reduce hair loss.
We’ll look at two medications approved for male or female baldness treatments.
Minoxidil or Rogaine
Rogaine is one of the FDA-approved male pattern baldness treatments. It’s a topical treatment, usually in foam or lotions found at pharmacies over the counter. Minoxidil is said to work best on the crown of the head as it stimulates the hair follicles to grow.
Individuals may see the results after four months to one year. But they have to continue taking this medication for the optimal result.
Finasteride, or Propecia
Propecia is also an oral treatment that you can only access on prescription.
Finasteride works by blocking a male hormone by shrinking the scalp hair follicles. The drug blocks the formation of the hormone in the scalp. And it slows the advancement of baldness linked to DHT. Patients may start to notice effects after six months. Stopping the pill reverses these effects.
In Conclusion
As men become older, they develop male pattern baldness (androgenetic alopecia), which is caused by changes in hormone levels. Female pattern baldness in men affects millions of men, which can be uncomfortable to some people. However, since medications are available, it doesn’t have to rob your confidence or self-esteem. Men who experience the best outcomes are those who begin treatment as soon as they notice hair loss.
