Male Pattern Baldness

Many jokes have been made about male pattern baldness, but to those who suffer from this common condition, it is no laughing matter. Androgenic Alopecia or male pattern baldness (MPB) is the cause of more than 90 percent of hair loss in men. Approximately 35 million men in the United States will be affected by male pattern baldness. The condition does not distinguish between cultures and effects all men of all different races. Male baldness often causes low self esteem, depression and self-consciousness. 

Male pattern baldness can occur at any age, but is most prevalent between the ages of 35 and 50.  The age of onset of hair loss, however, does not necessarily dictate exactly when a person will become bald. The process can take years and in the later stages of the condition, MPB is irreversible. Androgenic Alopecia occurs in varying degrees of severity, but it usually follows a pattern of a receding hairline and thinning of the hair on the crown of the head.

It is important to note that hair loss can be the result of many other extenuating factors, such as underlying medical conditions, and a diagnosis of Androgenic Alopecia should be made by a trained, qualified professional.

Causes of Male Pattern Baldness

Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) is a derivative of testosterone. DHT effects the size of hair follicles. Men with MPB are genetically predisposed and have a reaction to DHT which causes the hair follicles to decrease in size. As a result, hair becomes thinner, shorter, and the hair's growth phase becomes significantly shorter. Some of the hair follicles may eventually die.

There can be medical as well as genetic causes of male pattern baldness, and accurate diagnosis is important to effectively treat the condition.

Treatment for Male Pattern Baldness

Short term solutions to male pattern baldness include FDA-approved medications like Minoxidil (Rogaine) and Finasteride (Propecia, Proscar). Rogaine is used as a topical solution and works to regrow hair follicles. Unfortunately, the success rate of Rogaine is only at about 60%.  Propecia is a prescription pill that inhibits the production of the male hormone dihydrotestosterone; however, hair loss will return upon discontinuation of the product. Propecia has proven to be slightly more effective than Rogaine, but, unfortunately, both medications are temporary in nature.

The most effective, long term solution currently available for male pattern baldness is the hair transplant. Technology has improved the technique, so men no longer have to succumb to the artificial look and can achieve a natural looking and attractive result.