Male pattern hair loss, also known as androgenic alopecia, is the most common type of hair loss in men.
Symptoms of Male Pattern Hair Loss
The symptoms of androgenic alopecia typically develop gradually and may include:
- Receding Hairline: Thinning of hair begins at the temples, forming an "M" shape
- Thinning on the Crown: Gradual thinning on the top of the head or crown
- Overall Thinning: Some men may experience diffuse thinning across the entire scalp
- Pattern Progression: The pattern of hair loss may become more pronounced over time
Causes of Male Pattern Hair Loss
Male pattern hair loss is primarily caused by genetic and hormonal factors:
- Genetics: A family history of baldness can increase the risk of developing androgenic alopecia
- Hormonal Changes: Androgens, particularly dihydrotestosterone (DHT), play a key role in hair loss. DHT causes hair follicles to shrink, resulting in thinner and shorter hair. The hair by the sides of the head are less responsive to DHT, which is the reason why they are more resistant to hair loss.
Investigations and Diagnosis
Diagnosing male pattern hair loss involves:
- Medical History: Discussing symptoms, family history of hair loss, and overall health
- Physical Examination: Evaluating the pattern of hair loss and examining the scalp
- Dermatoscopy: Using a special magnifying camera to closely examine the hair and scalp
- Blood tests: To investigate for any nutritional deficiencies that may contribute to hair loss
Treatment Options for Male Pattern Hair Loss
Several treatment options are available to manage and slow down hair loss:
- Lifestyle and Hair Care: Maintaining a healthy diet, managing stress, and using gentle hair care products to support hair health
- Hair Supplements: Options include oral and topical supplements
- Medications:
- Minoxidil:
- An oral or topical treatment applied to the scalp to stimulate hair growth and slow hair loss by increasing blood flow to the area
- Finasteride (Propecia) or Dutasteride (Avodart):
- Prescription medications that reduces DHT levels, slowing hair loss and promoting hair regrowth
- Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT):
- Using laser devices to stimulate hair growth and improve hair density
- Regenera Activa:
- A minimally invasive hair treatment designed to combat hair loss and promote hair regeneration. This procedure involves extracting micro-grafts from the patient's own scalp, processing them, then injecting the processed grafts into the areas experiencing hair thinning. This stimulates hair follicles, improve hair density, and enhance overall scalp health.
- Hair Transplant Surgery:
- Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE): Involves harvesting individual hair follicles from the donor area and transplanting them to balding areas
Follow-Up and Management
Regular follow-up is essential to monitor progress and adjust treatments as needed:
- Monitoring Hair Growth: Regular assessments to track the effectiveness of treatment
- Adjusting Treatment: Modifying medications or other treatments based on response
- Long-Term Support: Providing ongoing support and guidance for managing hair loss
Empower Yourself
Understanding male pattern hair loss and exploring treatment options can lead to improved hair health and self-confidence. If you are experiencing hair loss, we are here at Freia Medical for personalized diagnosis and treatment.
For more information or to schedule a consultation, you can call in at 6735 8180, Whatsapp us at 8223 0609, email us at info@freia.sg, or book a consultation online at https://freia.sg/appointments/