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Strategies for Dealing with Male Hair Loss
by Jane Meggitt
Virtually every man loses considerable hair as he ages. Some guys manage to hang to a decent head of hair well into their 70s or 80s, while others are pretty much bald by 30. Genetics plays a large role, but it’s not the only factor. The first step for a man dealing with hair loss is finding out exactly why it’s happening.
Hair Loss Types
A visit to the doctor determines the likely reason for your hair loss. Here are the major triggers:
- Alopecia areata – this immune disorder causes loss of scalp hair and often hair on other body parts. While there’s no cure for this condition, the hair follicles don’t die, so there is always the possibility of partial or even complete hair regrowth.
- Male pattern baldness - a type of androgenic alopecia, this genetic pattern follows a common route. Hair loss starts above the temples, with the hairline continuing to recede. Half of all men over 50 exhibit male pattern baldness.
- Telogen effluvium – stress or trauma can result in hair loss, as approximately 30 percent of hairs cease growing. Eventually, instead of losing the average 100 hairs daily, affected men lose three times that many. Fortunately, hair generally starts its normal growth cycle within six months of the time patients notice excessive shedding, so it is a self-healing issue.
- Trichotillomania – this hair-pulling disorder is linked with mental health, and patients diagnosed with it should seek appropriate psychological treatment.
Hair Loss Strategies
No matter your diagnosis, there’s no magic bullet for immediate hair restoration. That doesn’t mean the cause is hopeless – there are plenty of effective strategies for dealing with hair loss. They aren’t one-size-fits-all and not every method or medication will work for every man. The most common hair loss therapies include:
- Minoxidil – this medication, marketed under the brand name Rogaine, slows down the hair loss process. Patients must take the drug for as long as they want to retain hair, which can mean a lifetime commitment.
- Laser therapy – laser treatments, performed on a regular basis, aid hair follicles via blood flow stimulation. If you’re patient, you should see results.
- Hair transplants – modern hair transplantation techniques do an excellent job of hiding bald spots. It’s probably the best method for treating male pattern baldness. While expensive, the technique of transplanting the man’s own hair follicles – from the back of his head – to the bald area usually results in hair regrowth.
Toupees are another choice. If you go that route, just make sure to purchase the best quality toupee you can afford and have it properly fitted. It can serve as an interim strategy while you decide about the appropriate hair restoration route.
If you or someone you know would like to learn more about hair loss, please feel free to schedule a consultation or contact one of our representatives today!
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