WHAT IS THE MAJOR CAUSE OF HAIR LOSS?
WHAT IS THE MAJOR CAUSE OF HAIR LOSS?
Hair loss is a common problem among men of all ages. It is related to aging, genetics and changes in the hormone testosterone. Hereditary alopecia, or pattern baldness, affects more men than women. Male pattern baldness can occur anytime after puberty. This can be a painful experience for men as it can lead to feelings of insecurity and low self-esteem. An estimated 40% of men will experience significant hair loss by the age of 35. In order to understand the main causes of hair loss in men, it is important to understand the anatomy of the hair follicle and the hair growth cycle. About 80 percent of men will show signs of male pattern baldness by age 70.
The Anatomy and Hair Growth Cycle of the Hair Follicle
The hair follicle is an organ found in the skin that produces hair. It is comprised of several components, including the dermal papilla, a bundle of tiny blood vessels; the sebaceous glands, which produce sebum; and the inner root sheath, which helps to protect the hair follicle. The dermal papilla is responsible for producing the cells that form the hair shaft. The sebaceous glands secrete sebum, which lubricates the hair and scalp. The inner root sheath helps to anchor the hair follicle in place and provides nourishment to the hair follicle.
The hair growth cycle consists of three stages: anagen, catagen, and telogen. During the anagen phase, the hair follicle is actively producing new hairs. This is the longest phase of the cycle and can last for several years. During the catagen phase, the hair follicle begins to shrink and the hair follicle enters a resting phase. The telogen phase is the final phase of the cycle and involves the shedding of the hair.
Major Causes of Hair Loss in Men
Genetics
Genetics also plays a role in hair loss in men. Male pattern baldness is the most common type of hair loss in men and is caused by a genetic predisposition. This type of hair loss typically begins in the late twenties or early thirties and progresses over time.
Lifestyle Factors
Certain lifestyle factors can also contribute to hair loss in men, such as excessive stress, lack of sleep, and poor diet. Stress can cause a hormone imbalance that can lead to hair loss. A lack of sleep can also lead to a decrease in the body's ability to produce healthy hair follicles. In addition, a poor diet that is low in essential vitamins and minerals can lead to a weakened immune system, which can cause hair loss.
Medical Conditions
Certain medical conditions can lead to hair loss in men, such as alopecia areata, an autoimmune condition that causes patchy hair loss. Other medical conditions that can cause hair loss include thyroid problems, scalp infections, and certain skin diseases.
Hormonal Imbalances
Hormonal imbalances can also lead to hair loss in men. Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) is a hormone that is produced by the body and helps to regulate the growth of facial and body hair. An excess of DHT can lead to an increased rate of hair loss. Other hormones, such as testosterone, can also affect hair growth.
Medications
Certain medications can also cause hair loss in men. These include certain medications used to treat cancer, high blood pressure, depression, and gout. In addition, certain medications used to treat hair loss, such as minoxidil, can cause hair loss in some individuals.
Hair loss is a common problem among men of all ages. There are a variety of factors that can cause hair loss in men, including medical conditions, hormonal imbalances, genetics, lifestyle factors, and medications. It is important to determine the cause of hair loss in order to determine the best treatment options. In some cases, hair loss can be reversed with appropriate treatment, while in other cases, hair loss may be permanent.
