Hair loss in men is a very common condition and is usually caused by genetic, hormonal and environmental factors. This can affect individuals’ self-confidence and quality of life. Detailed information about the causes, types and possible solutions of hair loss in men is discussed in this article.
Causes of Hair Loss in Men
1. Genetic Factors (Androgenetic Alopecia):
Male Pattern Hair Loss: Androgenetic alopecia is the most common cause of hair loss in men and is often genetically inherited. As a result of the hair follicles being sensitive to the dihydrotestosterone (DHT) hormone, the hair becomes thinner and falls out.
Family History: Having family members with hair loss increases the risk of hair loss in men.
2. Hormonal Changes:
DHT Hormone: DHT is a derivative of testosterone and causes hair loss by damaging hair follicles.
Thyroid Problems: Imbalances in thyroid hormones can also lead to hair loss.
3. Aging:
Natural Process: As we get older, the renewal rate of hair follicles decreases and the hair becomes thinner.
4. Health Problems and Medications:
Health Problems: Health problems such as diabetes, lupus, iron deficiency anemia can cause hair loss.
Medications: Some medications used for cancer treatment (chemotherapy), depression, high blood pressure and heart diseases can cause hair loss.
5. Nutrition and Lifestyle:
Nutritional Deficiencies: Insufficient protein, vitamin and mineral intake negatively affects hair health.
Stress: Chronic stress can trigger hair loss.
Types of Hair Loss in Men
1. Androgenetic Alopecia:
Definition: It occurs with the combination of genetic and hormonal factors. It is also known as male pattern baldness.
Symptoms: It begins with the receding of the hairline and thinning of the hair in the crown area.
2. Telogen Effluvium:
Definition: Hair loss is the result of hair entering the resting phase early due to factors such as stress, illness or sudden weight loss.
Symptoms: A general thinning and sudden hair loss is observed.
3. Alopecia Areata:
Definition: It is an autoimmune disease that occurs as a result of the immune system attacking the hair follicles.
Symptoms: It is characterized by the formation of round, balding areas.
4. Traction Alopecia:
Definition: Hair loss that occurs as a result of constant pulling or stretching of the hair.
Symptoms: Weakening and loss is seen in the hairline and hair follicles.
Hair Loss Solutions in Men
1. Drug Treatments:
Minoxidil: Applied topically, this medication reduces hair loss and encourages new hair growth.
Finasteride: This oral medication prevents hair loss by blocking the DHT hormone.
2. Hair Transplantation:
FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction): It is the method in which hair follicles are taken one by one from the donor area and transplanted to the balding area.
FUT (Follicular Unit Transplantation): It is a method in which hair follicles are transplanted by taking a strip of scalp from the donor area.
3. PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) Treatment:
Definition: It is the injection of platelet-rich plasma obtained from the patient’s own blood into the hair follicles.
Benefits: Promotes hair growth and reduces hair loss.
