Male Hair Loss and Male Pattern Hair Loss (MPHL)
It is often equally as distressing for a man to come to terms with the prospect of losing his hair as it is for a woman. Somehow though, society seems more accepting of male hair loss. Many men think there is no choice but to resign themselves to thinning, receding or even balding but this is definitely not the case. Although there is no cure for male pattern loss, there are clinically proven treatments which can slow down progression and reduce the loss, increase the thickness of existing hair and promote new growth. I will discuss the options and recommend those I feel best suit your needs. Of course, there is never any expectation or pressure to take that advice or purchase any treatments.
It is important to get an accurate diagnosis since about 20% of all male hair loss is caused by conditions other than MPHL, and sometimes in combination with it.
Male Pattern Hair Loss
(MPHL)
This is an androgenetic alopecia since it is triggered by the puberty-associated rise in androgens (testosterone) and inherited from either parent. In those with a genetic predisposition for hair loss, an enzyme in the body called 5-alpha reductase converts testosterone to its more potent form, dihydrotestosterone (DHT). This causes the hair follicles to reduce in size in a process called miniaturisation. Over time hairs become finer and fewer, causing thinning then balding.
The Hamilton and Norwood scale is used to classify the extent of male hair loss.
“Male Pattern” describes the way the hair loss typically presents and progresses. One pattern sees bi-temporal recession followed by vertex (top) at the crown progressing to a gradual joining together of the thinning/balding. Alternatively there may be frontal recession moving backwards in a horseshoe shape. Much less common is hair loss on the sides and the back. It is this hair which is assessed for suitability as a donor area for hair transplantation.
About 80% of male hair loss conditions are diagnosed as MPHL. By 20 years of age, 20% of men are noticing some signs such as receding temples, by age 50 it’s 50% and by age 80 it’s 80%. Certain factors such as age at onset and speed of progression influence the severity of the loss. Seek advice early to have as many treatment options as possible.
The good news is that there are clinically proven treatments to slow or even stop the progressive loss if caught before the hair follicle has died. In some cases, particularly if caught early, treatments have been shown to regrow and strengthen hair.
In addition, cosmetic enhancers such as micro-pigmentation, fibres and hair pieces as well as hair restoration/transplant surgery provide other options, all of which I can discuss with you and offer an independent perspective.
Testimonial
"After many years of managing my hair loss, I decided to have a hair transplant. My surgeon recommended continuing aspects of my treatment with Sally to ensure the future health of my new hair. Sally continues to give me an excellent service."
Male, 46, Uttoxeter
Early diagnosis is important to achieve the best results and guard against further permanent hair loss.
Consultations at Hair and Scalp Specialist are completely confidential. You will be treated with professionalism, empathy and understanding.