In this blog, we'll answer the following questions:
Why does Androgenic Alopecia happen?
Who does it affect?
How is it diagnosed?
What treatment options are there?
What is it?
Androgenic alopecia, also known as
androgenetic alopecia or male/female
pattern baldness, is a common form of
hair loss influenced by genetic and
hormonal factors. It is characterized by a
progressive thinning of the hair and
changes in the hair growth cycle.
What causes it?
On a normal scalp, 80-90% of hair follicles
are growing at any time. Each day, about
75 follicles shed their hair while the same
number enter a new growth phase.
Hormones, also called androgens, cause
hair follicles to have a shorter than normal
growth phase, resulting in hair shafts that
are abnormally short and thin.
Who is affected?
Both men and women are affected.
For men, Androgenic alopecia affects about 50% of men by the age of 50 and up to 80% by the age of 70. It often starts with a receding hairline and thinning at the crown.
For women, around 40% experience significant hair loss by the age of 50. Women typically experience a general thinning across the scalp rather than a receding hairline.
How is it diagnosed?
Medical History and Examination: Assessment of the patient’s medical history, family history of hair loss, and examination of the pattern and extent of hair loss.
Scalp Examination: Dermoscopy may be used to examine the scalp and hair follicles closely.
Pull Test: Gently pulling on the hair to see how many hairs come out, which can indicate the stage of hair loss.
What are your options for treatment?
Medications:
Minoxidil (Rogaine): Topical treatment applied to the scalp. Promotes hair growth and can slow hair loss.
Finasteride (Propecia): Oral medication that inhibits the conversion of testosterone to DHT. Can slow hair loss and promote regrowth.
Spironolactone: Oral medication that has anti-androgen effects. Often prescribed for women with androgenic alopecia.
2. Hair Transplant Surgery
3. Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT): Uses red light to stimulate hair growth and reduce hair thinning. Can be used in conjunction with other treatments.
4. Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy: Involves injecting concentrated platelets from the patient’s own blood into the scalp. Aims to stimulate hair growth through growth factors in the platelets.
5. Lifestyle and Hair Care: Gentle hair care practices, avoiding excessive heat and harsh chemicals. A balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals essential for hair health.
If you have more questions about diagnosis or treatment, schedule an appointment with Love Dermatology to get all your questions answered. We can't wait to help you!
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