Androgenetic alopecia, also known as male pattern baldness, is the most common cause of hair loss in men. It is caused by a combination of genetic and hormonal factors, and is characterized by a receding hairline and thinning of hair on the crown. The hair loss usually follows a pattern, with the hairline receding at the temples and the crown thinning.
Treatment options for male pattern baldness include:
- Medications: Finasteride (Propecia) is an FDA-approved medication that can be used to treat male pattern baldness by blocking the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), the hormone that causes hair loss. Minoxidil (Rogaine) can also be used to treat male pattern baldness, by promoting blood flow to the hair follicles.
- Hair transplantation: This surgical procedure involves transplanting hair follicles from one area of the scalp to another.
- Scalp micropigmentation: A technique where small micro-dots are tattooed to scalp mimicking the look of short hair, giving illusion of fullness.
- PRP Therapy : PRP therapy, also known as platelet-rich plasma therapy, is a non-surgical treatment option for hair loss. The treatment involves using the patient's own blood, from which the platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is isolated and then re-injected into the scalp. PRP therapy is based on the principle that growth factors present in platelets may stimulate the hair follicles and promote hair growth. The procedure itself takes about 30-45 minutes, and typically, 2-6 sessions are required, spaced at 4-6 weeks apart. A full course of treatment can take around 3-6 months.
It's important to note that hair loss can have many causes, so it's essential to consult with a healthcare professional, who will conduct a medical examination and possibly run some tests to determine the underlying cause of hair loss before recommending the best course of treatment. In some cases, the hair loss may be temporary and may regrow on its own without treatment, while in other cases, the hair loss may be permanent.