Hair loss (alopecia) is a condition in which a person suffers thinning of hair. It can be gradual or sudden. However, you can consult with your doctor for effective remedies if you are facing the issue. Another name for this condition is baldness. There can be various culprits for your falling hairs. However, the frequent ones are-
Male pattern baldness
The most common cause of this medical condition is male-pattern baldness (MPB). Also called androgenetic alopecia, MPB is the leading reason for the falling of hair in men and women. Moreover, you can have the inheritance of baldness from either your mother’s or father’s side of the family.
How does MPB take place?
Your sex hormones (androgens) play a key role in this type of hereditary alopecia. During puberty androgens, the male hormones become overactive. Being exposed to high levels of male hormones called dihydrotestosterone stimulates the growth of hair on the temples and the forehead. It becomes a receding hairline. Furthermore, it eventually produces a horseshoe-shaped ring of hair around the sides and back of your head. This condition results in male-pattern baldness.
Finasteride is a hair loss treatment that impedes the action of dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT leads to baldness. However, you can discuss this medication with your doctor.
Telogen effluvium
Another cause of thinning of hairs is chronic telogen effluvium. It occurs when you have an illness that causes significant stress to your body. These conditions may include-
- Malnutrition
- Acute febrile disorder
- Childbirth
Loss of hair can also be a consequence of chronic disease. In addition, using certain medications that interfere with protein absorption by the intestines can also lead to alopecia. You need to know that any of these factors can cause your hair to shed. It may result in diffuse hair loss.
Traction alopecia
The last major cause of thinning of hairs is traction alopecia. This condition occurs due to various stressors on the hair shaft. It weakens the hair follicles and makes them susceptible to breakage. However, the most common example of this condition is tight braiding or hair weaving that pulls on the hair over time.
These causes can result in baldness. Your doctor may rule the cause responsible for your condition. Consequently, he may begin your treatment of male pattern baldness.
What are the symptoms?
The most common symptom of baldness is a bald patch on the top of your head. It may be followed by hair loss over your entire scalp.
In male-pattern baldness, you may also start to see a receding hairline. Moreover, a horseshoe-shaped ring of hair around the back and sides of your head is also visible. In women, the scalp may become very shiny due to increased oil production in their skin called seborrhoea.
What is the best treatment for alopecia?
There are many remedies for your thinning of hairs. Moreover, they vary in price, quality, and effectiveness. Choosing between these products can be difficult. There is so much conflicting information about which works the best. Nevertheless, to help you out, here is a list of popular baldness treatments. You can also see their advantages and drawbacks. It may assist your decision-making processes.
Minoxidil
Minoxidil is a topical medication. It is available in a liquid or spray form. The medication is applied directly to the scalp to stimulate hair growth. One of the benefits of Minoxidil is it is available over the counter without a prescription. Additionally, it is effective in both men and women. However, there are some after-effects linked with it. They may include-
- Scalp irritation
- Useless hair growth on other body parts
- Acne
Finasteride
Finasteride is a well-working alopecia treatment. It is another option for stimulating hair regrowth. The medication comes in pill form. Moreover, it is only available with a prescription. Finasteride helps block the production of a hormone (DHT) that can lead to hair loss. Additionally, one of the benefits of this medication is it is effective in both men and women. It has minimal side effects. The most common are low libido and sexual dysfunction.
Hair transplant surgery
A more permanent solution for baldness is hair transplant surgery. Here, hair is removed from other body parts and transplanted to the areas affected by male pattern baldness. However, doctors recommend this solution to patients with male pattern baldness. The main benefit of surgical treatment is it produces permanent results for those who maintain their hair transplant once their new hair growth has stabilized. However, the surgery is costly. This remedy can take several months for new hair growth to become visible.
Hair systems
The hair system is a less invasive and less expensive solution for hair loss. It is a piece of synthetic hair attached to the scalp with adhesive or clips. You can put it on in a range of styles. Moreover, hair systems are a popular choice for those who do not want to undergo surgery or take medication. The downside to this remedy is you need to replace it every few months as the adhesive wears out. Additionally, they can be uncomfortable and difficult to keep in place in windy weather.
There is a variety of baldness solutions. However, the best one for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. Consider the pros and cons of each treatment before making a decision.
How can you prevent alopecia?
Restoring of hair may take some time. Moreover, it is essential to know that baldness can be a natural process all people experience as they age. You can do numerous things to prevent thinning of hairs.
Take care of your scalp
Keep your scalp healthy. Make sure you use a good shampoo and conditioner designed for your hair type. Moreover, avoid using excessive heat on your hair. If you have a habit of pulling your hair back into a tight ponytail or bun, try to cut back on this if you want to prevent hair loss.
Eat healthily and stay hydrated
To maintain healthy hair, eat a balanced diet, and stay hydrated. Moreover, make sure you get plenty of protein, fruits, and vegetables.
Don’t stress out
No matter what alopecia treatment you use, if you continue taking stress, your condition may not improve. Stress can cause thinning of hairs. Therefore, try to get enough rest and take care of yourself. If you notice any signs of skin irritation on your scalp, contact your healthcare provider. It is an indication that something might be fishy. In addition, sometimes it may also indicate skin disease like psoriasis.
