Medical News

Male pattern baldness is the most common type of hair loss, affecting some men as early as their twenties, but many more by their sixties. Men with a genetic predisposition to hair loss have areas on their scalp that are especially sensitive to the male sex hormone. As men age these areas and the hair follicles that are located there, suffer from a biological imbalance caused by the male hormone dihydrotestosterone (DHT). Slowly, over a period of years, hair follicles shrink and become less and less productive. Hairs that are produced are thinner and weaker, and as they are lost there are less new hairs to replace them, leading eventually to increasing areas of the scalp that are bald.

This Androgenetic Alopecia, as it is termed, is not easily cured because of its genetic component and because gene therapy is still in its infancy. Scientists are not yet able to manipulate the genes responsible for the condition, although maybe one day they will be.

For many men, the gradual loss of their hair is not of great concern, particularly if they are over fifty. A younger man though, still wanting to make the best of his appearance, may find the realisation that he has progressive balding quite distressing. If the hair loss has become pronounced, some men will resort to completely shaving their head to give a more “macho” appearance. Many more though will be desperate to find ways of restoring their hair, and there are several ways to do this. The options available include chemical applications such as minoxidil, DHT blockers such as finasteride, low-level laser treatment, hair extensions, and hair transplantation.

Chemical Applications
The main agent used to apply to the scalp in liquid form is minoxidil (Rogaine or Regaine), which is usually applied twice a day over a period of several months. Clinical trials have shown that hair loss can be reduced by up to 90% and new growth may even be promoted by up to 20%. Its precise mode of action is not clear but it seems to work better for younger rather than older men, and for smaller areas of baldness.

DHT blockers
The most popular pill is finasteride (Propecia), which is taken once a day and blocks formation of DHT so reducing general levels in the body. Clinical trials have demonstrated more than 50% of men who took it experienced cessation of hair loss and some regrowth. It may be necessary to carry on taking the medication indefinitely and there is a very slight risk of reduced libido. There are some natural DHT blockers available such as Saw Palmetto but they have been largely dismissed by the FDA as being less than effective.

Low-level laser therapy
This is a relatively new type of treatment which is said to give good results. Soft lasers have been used for a while to help with wound healing and part of this effect is due to increased blood flow to the affected area. This effect is utilised in the form of low-level laser energy applied to the scalp either by means of a hood or by means of a special laser comb. The former is used at a treatment centre and a series of treatments is required over a few months. Some types of low-level laser comb are suitable for home use, either by themselves, or in conjunction with other treatments such as minoxidil, or in conjunction with clinic treatment visits.

Hair extensions and transplants
Hair extensions can be made of human or artificial hair and coloured to blend in with one’s own hair. These are then fixed to existing hair on the head in a way that makes them virtually invisible. They may need to be re-tightened every few months but are a cost effective alternative to hair transplants. Transplants are of course the most natural of hair replacements since they are using your own healthy hair follicles and relocating them. These are often done now in the form of small skin grafts containing 1-4 follicles. These are time consuming to perform and then it can be a few months before they fully take, but for many the results are worth it.

Anybody suffering male pattern baldness should not despair as there is a wide choice of treatments that can help to slow or even reverse the hair loss, and, in our modern society, medicine and technology are improving our lives continually.

Healthy hair starts at the roots. From the inside out, healthy food and plenty of water. Around 6 to 8 glasses a day, is better. For instance if you way 130 pounds, you should drink roughly 60 ounces of water a day. That does sound like a lot but keep in mind your body is made up of mostly water. When you don’t have enough water it affects every part of your body including your internal organs, your brain your skin and yes your hair.

Aside from these things there is more you can do. We all know that flatirons and blow dryers damage your hair. But we all continue to use them on a daily basis. What can you do to protect your hair before you fry it with all that heat? There are chemicals, sprays and sheet protectors. Many of them to nothing to protect the follicles from damage, there are also many chemicals like relaxers, or anti-frizz treatments.

There are many new fires that can make your hair look great like wax, hair sprays, gel and mousse. Then over time you are left with a chemical buildup on your hair that is also unhealthy for your hair follicles. One treatment I have used many times in the past is baking soda. You take about a teaspoon of baking soda and add it to your shampoo in the Palm of your hand once a week and it will gently remove the chemical buildup from your hair. This is a simple and affordable treatment.

Another smart thing to do is read the ingredients label on your shampoo conditioners. You will notice some of them contain harmful chemicals like sodium sulfate. Sodium sulfate is actually an industrial cleaner. They add this to shampoo because it is a cost effective ingredient that also causes the shampoo to lather. But, it does damage to your hair with each use. It makes your hair brittle and dry then the follicles begin to break down and that is how your hair becomes damaged combined with flatirons and blow dryers your hair does not have a chance.

The way we brush and comb our hair can cause considerable damage also. You should start from the ends of your hair and work your way to the top one column in or brushing long hair take extra care when your hair is moist, damp or wet. Your hair is at its most vulnerable point when it is wet. Always start with a broad or wide toothed comb. Brush out your hair before you wash it and try to keep it as tangled free as possible while you shower.

Lastly try to avoid using brushes or columns with metal bristles as this causes too much stress on your hair. Another good idea is to tie a scarf around your head while you sleep or a silk or satin pillowcase is a great idea. There are many things you can do to protect your hair starting with a good diet plan he of sleep shampoo that does not contain harmful chemicals. Taking a break from blow drying ironing your hair when ever possible will also aid in bringing back healthy beautiful hair with plenty of body and shine.