You may want to sit down for this. Thirty-five percent of men over the age of 35 experience some level of hair loss. But before you start to freak out and run your hands rapidly through your hair – read this article on what causes hair loss in men.
There are genetic and environmental factors that can affect hair loss in men. Learn more about the causes of hair loss and prevention tips below.
What Causes Hair Loss In Men?
You may be surprised to know that men and women lose up to 100 hairs a day. However, noticeable hair loss occurs when those hairs do not grow back. Here are some of the factors that may cause male hair loss.
Genetics
You can’t blame your parents for everything but genetics do play a role in hair loss, hair thinning, and baldness. If you have several blood relatives experiencing hair loss, you may be at an increased risk of hair loss. Genetic androgenic alopecia (male-pattern baldness) is still a bit of a mystery to scientists but they have concluded that the condition is polygenic (related to more than one gene).
Medications/Supplements
If you are taking medications or supplements recommended by your doctor, ask whether hair loss is a potential side effect. Some men experience hair loss from medications for blood pressure, depression, and certain types of cancer.
Over-supplementation of specific vitamins such as Vitamin E and A may contribute to male hair loss. However, lack of proper nutrition has also been linked with hair loss.
Hair Loss Prevention
So, can you prevent male hair loss? Yes! Can you grow hair back? Not as easily – which is why it’s so important to act quickly and proactively. Below are a few treatment options for hair loss.
Topical products
Topical products (solutions you apply directly to the affected area) have been shown to increase hair growth and density. If you want to learn more, check out RU58841, a lab-tested treatment for androgenetic alopecia. Another topical product to try is Minoxidil (Rogaine).
Oral Medication
Finasteride (also known as Proscar or Propecia) is an oral medication for hair loss. It may help increase hair growth and prevent hair loss for men. Talk to your doctor about Finasteride and its side effects before taking it.
Hair Transplant
A hair transplant is a procedure performed by a plastic surgeon to move hair from an unaffected area to a bald or thinning area. If you have hair on the sides or back of the head but not the top, you may be a good candidate for a hair transplant. The procedure is effective but expensive.
Take Control and Prevent Hair Loss
Now you know what causes hair loss and the prevention/treatment options you have. If you have additional questions about hair loss talk to a medical professional. Male hair loss is not inevitable and you deserve to feel comfortable and confident about your appearance – even your hair!
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