In today’s fast-moving world, many men are having to face up to a concerning issue. I’m referring to the problem of male pattern baldness (MPB). While this may seem like a trivial issue at first glance, it can undoubtedly lead to low self-confidence for some and bring genuine distress to others.
The leading causes of MPB are the genes you inherit from your ancestors, aided and abetted by other factors such as ageing and hormonal changes.
Let’s look at some other essential facts about MPB.
Is MPB Stoppable?
Unfortunately, you cannot stop MPB. That’s probably not the answer you were hoping to hear, but don’t despair just yet. The good news is that many remedies can help to slow down the rate of hair loss and put limits on the area affected. Some of these remedies involve different types of treatment, while others may only require you to take medication. Multivitamins and dietary supplements are another way of holding back hair loss.
Some of these remedies provide temporary relief only; your cycle of hair loss may reappear once you stop taking medication, for example. It’s also important that you understand the different stages of MPB, as this will assist you in finding the appropriate treatment for the stage at which find yourself.
What Causes MPB?
As we noted above, MPB is hereditary. If someone in your family has experienced baldness, then there is an increased chance that you may also get it. That holds true both for the maternal and paternal sides of your family.
Another factor associated with MPB is the male sex hormone, androgens. These hormones are responsible for the growth and regulation of hair in men. As men age, the amount of the hormone found in the body begins to drop, leading to a fall in hair growth. Every strand of hair has a natural cycle which culminates in it falling from the root. As the androgen level drops in the body, these hairs are not replaced at the same rate, and over time, the hair covering becomes thin.
One positive aspect to keep in mind is that MPB does not cause any other health side effects.
The Stages Of MPB
It is essential to identify and note the different stages of MPB. This will help you identify the right treatment.
The following are the signs you should look out for in your hair:
- Excessive hair shedding
- Hairline disappearing from temples
- Overall hair thinning
- Reduced hair density
- A bald spot on the scalp
- Partial baldness
- Complete baldness
MPB starts with reduced hair on the temple and crown regions of the head. As you get older, hair fall starts from other areas of your head as well. While this is happening, the sides and back area of your head stay unaffected. These areas are also called parietal or occipital areas.
A hormone called dihydrotestosterone (DHT) is responsible for hair thinning. Simply put, when a man loses a strand of his hair, a new, thinner one replaces it. That’s how DHT works. With every advancing cycle, the hormone makes your hair that little bit thinner.
Eventually, the hair follicle stops producing any hair at all.
Can Changes In Lifestyle Help?
Aside from the remedies we’ve looked at, there are lifestyle changes you can make that will help you in the battle with MPB. Here are a few to consider.
Balanced Diet: A lack of nutrients can also cause hair loss. Eating proper meals and having a well-balanced diet will give you the nutrients your body needs. Not only will this help maintain your important bodily functions, but it will also keep your hair healthy as well.
Quit Smoking: Smoking has a direct impact on the condition of your hair. We all know by now the harm that smoking does to our general health, but research has also shown that by restricting blood flow to your scalp, smoking prevents nourishment from reaching your hair follicles which can lead to hair loss.
Reduce Stress: Stress is bad for your mental health. This can show itself in damage to your nails, hair and skin. Regular exercise or listening to music can help lower stress levels.
Scalp Massage: Scalp massage helps to reduce the inflammation near the hair follicles. It also keeps hair healthy.
Tips To Prevent Early Onset Of MPB
MPB can start from as early as the ages of 19 to 25, accelerating as you get older. Before it becomes too severe, here are a few tips you can try.
- Stay hydrated
- Do not brush wet hair
- Massage your hair with essential oils
- Wash your hair regularly
Takeaway
MPB can be due to medical reasons too. It can be brought on by cancer, undiagnosed illnesses or persistent illness. If you experience sudden hair loss and there is no history of baldness in your family, you should speak with your doctor immediately.
If you have concerns about MPB or any other issue around hair loss, why not speak with the experts at Vinci Hair Clinic? We offer a free, no-obligation consultation where you can get answers to all your questions. Get in touch and book your appointment today!
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