Male pattern baldness, scientifically known as androgenetic alopecia, has affected more than forty million men all across the United States. Studies show that twenty-five percent of men experience the onset of male baldness as early as age thirty. Others experience it as late as sixty years old. Baldness is actually common in men and is said to be permanent. While experts state the cause is complex, the scientific name alone states the problem basically stems from two major factors: hormonal and genetic.
Contrary to popular belief, wearing caps does not cause baldness or thinning hair. Baldness hair loss is hereditary. Brushing and massaging the scalp does not help to regrow healthy hair. Also, extensively cleaning the scalp has not been proven to unclog the follicles and allow hair regrowth. Baldness is somehow caused by extreme psychological stress. There are two known types of baldness, namely alopecia areata and traction alopecia. Alopecia areata causes patchy hair losses on the scalp and its main cause is said to be a result of the immune system of the body attacking the hair follicles. Experts say this type of baldness is untreatable. Traction alopecia results from pulling the hair for long periods of time and is caused by hairstyles like tight braids. This can be resolved once the pulling of the hair is eliminated.
Male pattern baldness should not be considered a medical disorder. Medications are not at all required, especially for men who simply want to let the whole process run its course. At the same time, baldness can be a great cause of depression and anxiety for other men. This is the very reason why we see many treatments available today. Minoxidil (Rogaine) or Finasteride (Propecia) are prescription medication for thinning hair. These are the only medications for hair loss that are duly approved by the Bureau of Food and Drug. Furthermore, surgical treatments may also be considered, like scalp reduction or hair transplantation. However, such procedures bring about the risk of scarring and infection.
Cosmetic treatments are perhaps the easiest and most convenient way to deal with male pattern baldness. For men who are not comfortable with medications or surgical procedures, a toupee or hair piece might do the trick, and there are lots of shops today that make custom made toupees to cover the balding area. Options for baldness is a big issue among men today, so if you are contemplating or considering these procedures, be sure to discuss the pros and cons with your doctor.
Male Pattern Baldness Facts You Should Know
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