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by Op. Dr. Evren Tevfik İşçi
Each hair has a life cycle and each hair lives for 4 to 6 years, then rests and finally falls out. This shedding of hair is a natural process and the loss of 50 to 100 hairs per day is not a problem. However, if more hairs fall out, if there is a noticeable increase in the amount of hair that comes to the hand while bathing, or if 3-5 hairs come out in the palm of the hand when the washed and dried hair is pulled by hand, there may be a problem. Since hair loss can be caused by many different reasons, the underlying cause of the problem should first be identified and then treatment should be planned.
Male pattern hair loss is usually caused by hormonal and genetic factors. The hormone called dihydrotestosterone can shorten the hair length, lighten the color and narrow the diameter of the hair by affecting the follicles. As a result of its progression, hair follicles disappear and no hair begins to grow in the area.
Smoking, unhealthy eating habits, stress, skin problems, irregular sleep, side effects of some medications, environmental conditions, age, genetic factors, especially low levels of vitamin E and keratin can be listed among the factors that trigger hair loss.
Male pattern hair loss can be seen under the influence of the factors listed above. The main reason for male pattern hair loss in women is the high level of androgen hormone secretion and genetic factors.
What is Male Pattern Hair Loss?
Hair loss that occurs in the area called the top of the head is called male pattern hair loss or androgenetic alopecia. As the hair in the crown area falls out over time, the scalp becomes visible. As the hair falls out at the crown, a round opening is formed, and in some cases, hair loss may occur from the points where the hair starts on the head.
The reason why this type of hair loss is called male pattern hair loss is that hair loss in men usually occurs in the crown area. One of the most important causes of male pattern hair loss is genetic factors. Hair loss usually starts from adolescence and with the decrease in the quality of hair strands, regional openings may occur over time.
Androgenetic alopecia is a condition associated with hormone sensitivity. It can cause the person to feel psychologically unhappy and inadequate. If this problem, which can be caused by various factors, is not solved; stress, lack of self-confidence and depression may occur. It is possible to benefit from medical aesthetic procedures for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia.
At What Age Does Male Pattern Hair Loss Occur?
The frequency of male pattern hair loss is higher between the ages of 35 and 50. Precautions should be taken before it is too late for this problem that starts to be seen at an early age. Otherwise, hair loss will continue rapidly and baldness will become a problem over time. Male pattern hair loss can often occur during breastfeeding and pregnancy.
Symptoms of male pattern hair loss include receding hairline, thinning and thinning hair. In men, the crown area becomes balding and there is a distinct opening, while in women, thinning is seen in the form of a crown.
What are the Stages of Male Pattern Hair Loss?
Male pattern hair loss, i.e. androgenetic alopecia, does not occur suddenly, but over a period of time. It is not possible for every individual to have information about this process that may result in baldness.
Male pattern hair loss occurs in three stages. In the first stage, the hairline recedes and the forehead line begins to widen. In the second stage, baldness can be seen to progress to the middle of the forehead. In the third stage, complete baldness occurs on the remaining parts of the head except the nape of the neck.
If the necessary precautions are not taken in these three phases and the correct treatment is not applied, there is a risk that the patient will quickly become bald. During this process, people should avoid situations that may cause hair loss. Otherwise, the problem may grow rapidly and the person may experience undesirable situations such as lack of self-confidence in work and social life.
Can Male Pattern Hair Loss Be Prevented?
Hair loss can be slowed down and even prevented by applying the right treatments and using the recommended medications regularly. Between the ages of 25 and 50, if the activity of hair follicles has decreased, male pattern hair loss can be postponed by applying treatments determined specifically for the person. Although it is not possible to prevent it completely, it can be delayed.
There are different points that men with hair loss should pay attention to as a precaution against hair loss. The area with hair loss should be protected from sun rays. Sun rays can cause skin cancer, actinic, spot and keratosis formation in the area.
Care should be taken to take vitamins that will help strengthen the hair follicles and skin. Especially keratin and vitamin E are very important for hair health. In addition, it is important to regulate eating habits and follow a balanced diet. In addition, environments that may cause stress and anxiety should be avoided and a correct hair care routine should be applied.