Thinning hair and male pattern baldness (MPB) affect two-third of American men by the age of thirty-five. By the age of 50, approximately 85 percent of men experience visible baldness or a thinning hair pattern.
Medically known as androgenic alopecia, the condition is characterized by a receding hairline, coupled with frequent hair loss—more than normal 100 strands per day—from the crown as well as the scalp.
MPB doesn’t happen overnight, which is why it’s typically hard to detect it early on. The almost unnoticeable and gradual symptoms take years—or even a whole decade—to become fully evident. Not to mention, many early symptoms are often confused with seasonal shedding, normal hair loss, and may even be attributed to other stressful health conditions.
Early detection is the key to treating—if not stopping—MPB; but you need to be on the lookout for the warning signs to prevent hair loss.
Frequent Hair Loss
Well, duh! MPB starts with hair loss—this is the most obvious sign of the condition. However, the trick is to notice sudden spikes in shedding that may be correlated with the early onset of the condition.
To be sure, check for other possible causes such as weight loss, anxiety, or cancer that may be causing the condition. Once you’ve taken other factors out of the equation, you can associate the hair loss with MPB.
Hormonal Changes
Medications often cause an imbalance of hormones and testosterone, which may lead to faster hair loss. Hormonal imbalances not only cause, but worsen MPB, which is why you need to understand the side-effects of prescribed medications in the long-term.
Genetics
DNA and genes play a crucial role in male pattern baldness. The research confirms that the likelihood of MPB increases if a person’s maternal grandfather suffered from hair loss and alopecia. Over 100 autosomal genes are linked to baldness, so if your family has a history of MPB, you should practice preventive measures from an early age.
But genetics are just an indication of potential MPB; it doesn’t necessarily affect everyone with a family history.
If you’re worried about hair shedding and suspect that the problem is greater than a few lost strands every day, talk to a general physician or a dermatologist. If you’re actively looking for hair loss treatment options in Delaware, get in touch with us for scalp micropigmentation and non-surgical hair loss treatment. We serve clients in Wilmington and nearby areas.
To talk to us directly, feel free to give us a call at 302-292-0380.