High levels of androgen hormones or genetic factors can cause men to gradually lose hair on the top of their head, leading to baldness.
According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), baldness is the most common type of hair loss in men, also known as male pattern baldness or hereditary baldness. In fact, baldness can occur in both sexes and at various ages.
Male pattern baldness is characterized by a receding hairline, thinning hair on the crown, forming a circular bald patch that increases in size over time. As the hairline continues to recede, the hair on the crown becomes finer and thinner, eventually forming a U-shape with hair on the sides and a bald spot on the crown.
Slow hair growth and hair loss are a normal part of the aging process. However, male pattern baldness is different from age-related hair loss. This condition can begin in the late teens or early 20s, progressing over time and becoming common in middle age. Here are two causes of this condition in men.
Genetics : This is the most common cause, with a tendency to run in families. Men with relatives who are bald are at risk.
The exact genetic mechanisms causing baldness are still unclear, as environmental factors may also play a role. However, the AAD suggests that genes associated with male pattern baldness cause hair follicles to shrink, ceasing hair growth and resulting in bald patches on the head.
Androgen hormones : Male pattern baldness is also related to the sex hormone androgen, specifically dihydrotestosterone. Androgens play a crucial role in male and female sexual development. Excessively high androgen levels can shorten the hair growth cycle, meaning hair falls out sooner; new hair grows out shorter and thinner; or it can delay the replacement of lost hair with new hair.
Both genetic factors and androgen hormones can contribute to male pattern baldness. Variations in certain genes cause an overreaction to androgens, leading to hair loss. For example, a variant in the AR gene has been shown to increase the activity of androgen receptors in hair follicles, increasing the risk of hair loss.
Male bald patches often have a U-shape. Photo: Freepik
While baldness cannot be prevented, there are several methods that can reduce hair loss and stimulate new hair growth. Men should begin treatment as soon as they notice signs of hair loss for best results. Some topical products, such as shampoos or medications, can be prescribed by a dermatologist.
In addition, some medical procedures for treating baldness include:
Hair transplantation: Hair follicles are taken from an area of hair that is growing and transplanted into the bald area. This procedure may need to be done multiple times.
Platelet-rich plasma injection : Plasma (the liquid part of blood) containing platelets (small cells involved in blood clotting) is injected into the scalp to stimulate hair growth.
Laser or light therapy: Laser or light energy is applied to the remaining hair follicles on the scalp, stimulating hair growth.
Men experiencing hair loss should consult a dermatologist or cosmetic specialist for proper examination and treatment.
Anh Ngoc (According to Verywell Health )
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