Male Pattern Baldness Facts You Should Know

Minoxidil

Forty million men all across the United States have male pattern baldness. Scientifically know as androgenetic alopecia, twenty-five percent of men start experiencing male baldness as early as thirty years of age, while there are some with no baldness problems until they reach their sixties. Experts cannot really point out the real cause of this permanent hair loss problem, yet the scientific name clearly pinpoints the two major factors, which are hormonal and genetic.

Contrary to popular belief, wearing caps does not cause baldness or thinning hair. Baldness hair loss is hereditary. Brushing and massaging the scalp does not help to regrow healthy hair. Also, extensively cleaning the scalp has not been proven to unclog the follicles and allow hair regrowth. Baldness is somehow caused by extreme psychological stress. There are two known types of baldness, namely alopecia areata and traction alopecia. Alopecia areata causes patchy hair losses on the scalp and its main cause is said to be a result of the immune system of the body attacking the hair follicles. Experts say this type of baldness is untreatable. Traction alopecia results from pulling the hair for long periods of time and is caused by hairstyles like tight braids. This can be resolved once the pulling of the hair is eliminated.

Male pattern baldness should not be considered a medical disorder. Medications are not at all required, especially for men who simply want to let the whole process run its course. At the same time, baldness can be a great cause of depression and anxiety for other men. This is the very reason why we see many treatments available today. Minoxidil (Rogaine) or Finasteride (Propecia) are prescription medication for thinning hair. These are the only medications for hair loss that are duly approved by the Bureau of Food and Drug. Furthermore, surgical treatments may also be considered, like scalp reduction or hair transplantation. However, such procedures bring about the risk of scarring and infection.

Male pattern baldness may also be treated with cosmetic treatments. Hair pieces or toupees are ideal as a baldness treatment, most of which are custom-made, especially for men who are not prepared to undergo surgical procedures or prescription medications. With so many options to consider today, men who are concerned about losing their hair should discuss the issue with their health care professional.