If you’re reading this, you may have noticed your thinning hair. Perhaps in the morning, more strands fall as you run your fingers through your hair or that your hairline is receding. However it manifests for you, male pattern balding can affect anyone regardless of gender and age. Unfortunately, some don’t even realise they have it until they get confronted by a bald spot on their head.
Pattern hair loss, hereditary hair loss, or androgenetic alopecia is a common disorder in Asia, with some men in Singapore experiencing it as early as 15 years old. While the condition typically presents itself as thinning at the top of the head, it can lead to complete baldness if left untreated.
The process of male pattern hair loss can be challenging for you and your loved ones. In addition, losing your hair can be a demoralising experience for anyone. Balding is often seen as a sign of ageing and can dramatically affect your appearance and self-confidence. But the best way to manage the situation is by learning as much as you can about it.
The following guide will help you understand everything about male pattern hair loss, including its causes, symptoms, and possible solutions.
Causes
Male pattern hair loss (MPHL) is a genetic condition triggered by dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a derivative of testosterone. DHT binds to receptors in certain areas of your scalp and starts an irreversible process known as follicular miniaturisation, eventually leading to baldness.
In simpler terms, the affected follicle shrinks over time. As the follicle shrinks, the life span of each hair strand becomes shorter. Eventually, the affected follicle stops producing hair.
Want to know how much hair loss can cost you? Read here.
Symptoms
Curl it, wear it short, or keep it natural; there are a million and one ways for a man to style his locks. But what happens when you start losing your hair? Suddenly that trendy new style you want goes out the window, and baldness becomes a real possibility.
If you’re starting to experience any of these symptoms of male pattern baldness, don’t panic. Remember, staying informed is the best way to help you determine early interventions. The symptoms of male pattern baldness include:
- Patchy bald spots
In men with male pattern baldness, the bald patches usually start at the top of the head above the temples and then get wider until they meet in a horseshoe shape just before reaching around to cover up some or all of the scalp behind this area.
- Thinning of the hair at the crown or temples
Another symptom caused by male pattern hair loss is that the hair in your crown or temples begins to thin. It can look like a widening part or you may also notice your eyebrows getting thinner.
- The recession of the hairline
The most common symptom is a receding hairline, which occurs when there is less of a visible crown on top. Your hairline will decrease and will look like a horseshoe or “M” shape from the front. It can start with a bit of thinning in the hairline, but it usually spreads over time.
If you think you may be experiencing any hair loss other than male pattern baldness, consult your doctor to rule out any underlying medical conditions. For example, anaemia can also cause hair loss in men. Other factors include stress, thyroid problems, nutritional deficiencies, and medications like antidepressants.
Here are hair loss facts that can help you overcome it.
Types of Male Pattern Hair Loss
When it comes to hair loss, there are a lot of different factors at play. Knowing the differences can help you better understand your particular condition and find the best treatment options. Here we’ll look at some of the most common types of male pattern hair loss.
Telogen Effluvium
Telogen effluvium is a condition that affects the hair follicles and can lead to excessive shedding of your locks. It can cause you to lose your hair without new growth. It usually happens about 2-3 months after some stress or traumatic event, such as an accident, illness, dramatic weight loss or gain, or surgery.
Anagen effluvium
It typically happens when you have medical treatment like chemotherapy, making your hair fall out fast – sometimes all at once or in clumps. Fret not because most people get their hair back once the treatment ends. Dermatologists can prescribe medicines to help the hair grow faster and thicker.
Alopecia Areata
Alopecia areata is a condition that can affect anyone at any age. It’s an autoimmune response where the body attacks healthy tissues, including hair follicles resulting in loss of eyelashes, eyebrows, and hair on the head. The first sign might be just one small bald patch on your head which spreads gradually.
Treatment Options
Hair loss can have a significant psychological impact. Studies have shown that hair loss can be associated with depression, low self-esteem, introversion, and feeling unattractive. Male pattern hair loss is a common issue that many men face today, and they struggle to find a treatment. Although genetics play a part, you can mitigate its effects in many ways. Some treatment options are:
- Medication
Minoxidil is a drug that has been clinically proven to slow the progression of hair loss and regrow some hairs. However, most experts see it as an ineffective way of fighting against MPHL because its effects are only temporary since it does not address the hormonal process of hair loss.
- Micropigmentation to resemble a shaven scalp
Micropigmentation uses small tattoos to cover up bald patches on the scalp. It also covers any part of the head where hair has thinned out either from age or illness. It was initially used by actors and actresses who had significant changes in their appearance due to medical conditions, like cancer treatment. Still, many people choose to get it done to conceal the effects of baldness and hair loss.
- Hair replacement system
Hair replacement systems are made from natural human hair. They can help you make the most of what you have, so you can regain some confidence. Hair replacement systems are considered one of the best alternatives since they can be cut, styled and shampooed just like natural hair. The great thing about hair replacements is that no one knows who’s wearing them but the wearer himself!
Hair replacement systems are less costly than transplants or surgery and don’t leave scars. If you’re looking for a treatment option that looks natural, inexpensive, and easy to maintain, consider a hair replacement system.
When it comes to your crowning glory, go for good quality, well-made hair systems like Aremyhair pieces.
Our team of specialists at Aremyhair would be happy to discuss the best treatment plan for your condition. Call us at +65 6225 2022 or +65 9641 3620, and let us help you regain your confidence with a full head of hair.
