Male Hair loss

Male pattern hair loss

Male pattern hair loss is also known as androgenic (related to male hormones) hair loss.

The pattern of hair loss is familiar with hair being lost first at the front in the temporal regions and over the vertex (top of the scalp). Without treatment the condition usually progresses.

Incidence and inheritance of hair loss in men

About 50% of Caucasian men will have some male pattern hair loss by the time they are 50. This usually starts in their 20s and 30s. The incidence varies from one population to another. Japanese men are less prone to hair loss.

It was thought in the past that male pattern hair loss is inherited only through the male line. Researchers now believe it can also be inherited through the female side.

Hair growth and hair loss

Hair follicles go through phases of growth followed by shedding, resting and re-growth. The whole cycle takes between 2 and 6 years. Most of the time the hair is in the growing phase.

In male pattern hair loss the hair follicles are sensitive to a hormone called DHT (Dihydrotestosterone). Sensitive hair follicles have a shortened growth phase leading to finer hair and hair loss.

The progression of hair loss in men who are predisposed is usually gradual and predictable. See illustration (right).

Hair loss that is not symmetrical, patchy, associated with inflammation of the scalp or with generalised illness is not related to DHT sensitivity of the scalp. For hair loss like this treatment for male pattern hair loss (Propecia) will not work.