Hair Loss In Men: What You Need To Know

Hair loss is one of the most common problems all over the world, especially among men. Male pattern baldness or Androgenetic alopecia, in particular, is a serious problem that almost every adult man faces. In India, studies and statistics have shown that more men are now tackling the issue of baldness as early as their 20s, with some suggesting that almost 85% of the adult male population would experience this problem to some extent.

There are many factors at play regarding hair loss in men. It can be due to hormonal changes, genetics, lifestyle habits or various medical conditions. On top of that, the experience may also differ from person to person –with a gradual hair fall for some, while others may be more sudden and distressing. So read on to find out all there is to know – causes, risk factors and the treatment options available for hair loss in men.

Causes of Hair Loss in Men

Hair Loss in men is mostly due to three main factors - age, genetics and hormones. These three common factors cause the scalp hair follicles, which are tiny cavities in the scalp, to gradually shrink with time. As a result, the progress of hair growth becomes shorter and finer to the point where no new hair grows. Male pattern baldness, in particular, is usually due to a change in hormone levels over the course of his life. Likewise, genetics also plays a significant role in this situation.

Apart from these three, studies have also suggested that hair loss in men has a close connection with certain health conditions, such as obesity, diabetes, hypertension, high blood pressure and prostate cancer. Additionally, it can also occur due to stress, malnutrition, iron deficiency, side effects of medications like anticoagulants or blood thinners, overconsumption of vitamin A supplements, or telogen effluvium –which is a disturbance of the hair growth cycle. Nonetheless, anyone who is concerned that hair loss may be a symptom of a health problem should see a doctor.

Hair Loss In Men: Who Is At Risk?

Hair loss in men can occur as early as the teenage years, but it is more common among adult men, with the likelihood increasing with age. And as mentioned earlier, genetics plays a major role in this. As a result, men who have close relatives with male pattern baldness are at a much higher risk, with the risk increasing especially if the relatives are from the maternal side of the family. 

That said, here is how you can tell if you or your partner is losing hair. If your hair loss starts at the temples or the crown of the head, you may be experiencing male-pattern baldness. This process can vary from person to person, with some experiencing a single bald spot while others experience receding hairline in such a way that it forms an “M” shape. For some, this may continue to a point where most of the hair is gone.

Can It Be Prevented?

Unfortunately, there is no known way to prevent conditions like male pattern baldness. However, there are many ways you can treat and manage the condition so that it does not get in the way of you leading a happy life.

Here are some of the ways you can help treat and manage hair loss in men:

1. Medication

Male pattern baldness is treatable using certain medications, such as Minoxidil (Rogaine), Finasteride (or Propecia) and Dutasteride. Minoxidil is mostly used as a lotion or foam and is known to work best on the crown of the head while Finasteride and dutasteride are oral treatments. These medications can take up to 6 months to appear and may even have certain side effects such as skin problems, irritation, abdominal pain, diarrhoea or even sexual dysfunction.

2. Transplantation

This treatment involves taking hair from elsewhere and grafting it onto the scalp.  However, the procedures are expensive and oftentimes, multiple treatments are necessary, with a risk of scarring and infection. Nonetheless, the advantages of a hair transplant are that it looks more natural and it is permanent.

3. Laser and light treatment

Another popular treatment for male pattern baldness involves laser and light therapy, with a procedure that may last from 6 to 12 months. Studies have shown that these types of treatment have not been shown to slow or prevent male pattern baldness.

That said, there are also certain things that can speed up the process of hair loss in men. This includes unhealthy lifestyle habits. Hence, making healthy changes to your lifestyle may help manage unwanted hair loss. Here’s what you can do:

• Reduce stress – Several studies have shown that stress may cause hair loss by increasing the production levels of sex hormones in the body. Hence, reducing stress by participating in relaxing activities is the best thing you can do to soften the blow of hair loss.
• Eat a healthy diet –Studies have suggested that eating a healthy diet, especially those rich in anti-inflammatory properties, can help promote hair growth and combat hair loss. This includes lots of fruits, vegetables, whole grains and healthy oils.
• Quit smoking –A 2020 research has shown that nicotine in cigarettes may be the one responsible for speeding up hair loss in men –based on their study showing hair loss to be more common in smokers than non-smokers.
• Avoid pulling hair – Avoid hairstyles that involve tightly pulling back the hair against the scalp as it can cause hair fall and sometimes even permanent hair loss. Pulling on the hair to relieve stress is also harmful.
• Avoid using hair-damaging products –Too much hair gel, spray, colour, etc can damage your hair to the point you may experience hair loss. Be sure to use only mild products to avoid hair loss.
• Take healthy, natural supplements –Deficiency in certain vitamins and minerals beneficial for hair health is one of the many reasons behind hair loss in men. That is why nutritional supplements such as Tressgrow Tablets from Preserva Wellness should be considered for hair health. This clinically proven supplement features the power and richness of 10 brilliant Ayurvedic ingredients that work their way to improving blood circulation in the scalp, nourishing and strengthening hair follicles to prevent unwanted hair fall and hair loss. The invigorating formula also works wonders in preventing dryness, dandruff and scalp infections. This product works better when combined with the equally powerful Tressgrow Oil which helps nourish, strengthen and improve the quality of hair.

The Bottom Line

Hair loss in men or male pattern baldness is a common problem that affects millions of men worldwide. And despite being a natural part of the ageing process, it can be psychologically distressing for many. However, with advancements in technology, there are now many treatment options available for managing hair loss in men. Likewise, adopting healthy lifestyle habits can greatly help in the process as well.