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POSTED: 20 Aug 2023

How To Prevent Hair Loss in Men, Here are the Causes and Treatments That Work

Losing hair is a common concern for many men. While a little thinning here and there might be easy to shrug off, significant hair loss can be distressing. It’s about more than just aesthetics. For men and , hair loss can affect confidence, style and even . Whilst it’s easy to dismiss hair loss in men as part and parcel of ageing, the underlying causes can be more intricate. This is why preventing and treating hair loss in men can be complex. In this article, we take a deep dive into what causes hair loss in men. We also explore measures to prevent it and .

What Causes Hair Loss in Men?

Hair loss in men, also known as or occurs due to a number of factors. The most common causes of are a combination of genetic, hormonal and environmental factors. Below are the primary causes of hair loss in men.

Genetics

is largely . In fact, a family history of baldness can significantly predispose men to hair thinning. If men in your family, especially on the maternal side, have experienced hair loss, there’s a higher chance you might too.

Hormonal Changes

plays a role in hair loss for men. Testosterone, the male sex hormone, converts to DHT with the help of the enzyme 5-alpha reductase. Some men have hair follicles that are more sensitive to DHT. Over time, . As such, this leads to thinner hair and eventually hair loss.

Medical Conditions

Certain medical can cause hair loss in men. is an autoimmune disorder that results in sudden hair loss when the immune system mistakenly targets and attacks hair follicles. It doesn’t just affect hair growth on the scalp and can cause loss on the face (e.g. ) and body. There are also certain skin disorders, such as , that can result in scars. As a result, this can cause permanent hair loss at the site of the scarring.

, both hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism, can disrupt the . If untreated, this can lead to hair thinning and loss. Similarly, chronic like and can also to hair loss. Moreover, scalp infections, such as ringworm, can infiltrate the skin and hair of the scalp. This can cause patchy hair loss.

Medications

Several medications can also cause . In men, this hair loss can manifest as thinning, patchiness or total baldness, depending on the medication and your individual response. Here are some of the common medications that can cause hair loss as a side effect:

In most cases, if hair loss is due to medications, it reverses once you stop them or adjust the dosage. If you suspect that a medication is causing your hair loss, consult with your doctor. Do not stop any medication abruptly without guidance.

Stress

There are three primary types of hair loss that can cause. The first is , which is temporary hair loss due to excess shedding. Normally, your hair goes through a life cycle that includes a growth phase (anagen), a resting phase (telogen) and a phase. With , a big event can shock a large number of follicles. This causes them to enter the resting phase prematurely and, a few months later, hair may shed in larger amounts. Secondly, stress can cause . This is a compulsive behaviour where individuals feel an urge to pull out their hair. It’s often a way to deal with negative emotions. Thirdly, there’s . Severe stress can sometimes trigger your immune system and cause it to attack your hair follicles. This leads to hair falling out in round patches on the scalp and even other areas of the body.

The good news is that stress-related hair loss is usually temporary. If you manage and reduce your stress, your hair typically starts to grow back. However, regrowth can be slow. In some cases, especially with or chronic stress, you may require medical intervention. This could include stress management techniques, therapy or medical . If you have significant hair loss and think it might be due to stress, it’s a good idea to first speak with a doctor.

Dietary Deficiencies

An of vital nutrients, like proteins, iron and vitamins, can contribute to hair thinning. For example, iron deficiency can reduce blood supply to the scalp. This can lead to hair thinning and shedding. Similarly, inadequate can cause weaker hair strands. This is because hair is predominantly made up of protein. Zinc, a mineral that promotes hair tissue growth and repair, can also lead to hair loss when in short supply. , particularly omega-3s, nourish hair follicles. Their absence can result in a dry, flaky scalp and hair loss. Additionally, B-vitamins, especially , are pivotal for healthy hair. Deficiency in them can lead to brittleness and increased hair fall.

How to Prevent Hair Loss in Men

The best way to prevent hair loss in men is to start by identifying whether there is an underlying cause. If your hair loss is due to a medical condition, then treating or better managing this will prevent hair loss. Similarly, if the cause is a specific medication, then your doctor may adjust your dose or switch you to a different medicine. This will prevent further hair loss and eventually regrow it.

To hair loss due to genetics, hormones or stress, start by improving your overall health and lifestyle. Ensure that you eat a diet rich in essential vitamins, and proteins, as this can bolster hair health. Additionally, regular exercise, meditation and relaxation techniques can improve your overall health and help manage stress. This may in turn reduce hair loss. Lastly, avoid or limit harsh chemical treatments, as these can weaken the hair and make it more likely to break.

Effective Treatments for Stopping Hair Loss in Men

If you are experiencing unusual or sudden hair loss, it’s important to consult with a doctor first. This will help find out if there is an underlying medical condition that might be the cause and treat that accordingly. For common types of hair loss in men like male pattern baldness or stress, there are a number of effective treatments . Often, the best way to may involve combining treatments. Below are the best known for hair loss in men.

Minoxidil

was initially developed as an antihypertensive medication, but it was later found to . In the UK, minoxidil is available both over the counter (as Rogaine) and through prescription for higher than 5% strength, compounded formulas and oral medicines. Minoxidil works by the . It also enhances blood circulation to hair follicles which delivery of essential nutrients and oxygen. This seems to wake up dormant follicles, which increases the number and density of hair strands. There is also evidence to suggest that , which makes hair thicker. However, results can vary from person to person and . You will also need to use it for at least 3 to 4 months to start seeing results and to continue using it, otherwise your hair loss will return.

Finasteride

This is a prescription only that is primarily used to (androgenetic alopecia). acts as an inhibitor of the enzyme 5-alpha reductase. This enzyme converts testosterone into a more potent derivative called dihydrotestosterone (DHT). In genetically follicles, DHT drives the . This is a hallmark of androgenetic alopecia. As these follicles shrink, the hair can become progressively finer until the follicles eventually cease to produce hair altogether. By reducing DHT levels, reduces the impact of this on hair follicles. As such, this leads to a slowing or of hair thinning. With prolonged use, finasteride can even lead to hair regrowth. It is usually prescribed as tablets and often used alongside minoxidil. Again, the effect of finasteride can vary among individuals.

Laser Therapy

This non-invasive treatment uses red or near-infrared light to stimulate hair follicles. The main way it works is to increase blood flow to the scalp and hair follicles. This provides them with more nutrients and oxygen. Hence it can extend the growth phase of the hair cycle. This is usually an at-home treatment and there are a number of devices on the market, ranging from laser combs to helmets and caps. Whilst are promising, this is still a relatively new technology. As such, more research is needed to back up the claims. As with all hair loss treatments, results can vary from person to person. It’s important to follow instructions carefully, be consistent and patient, as well as set realistic expectations. Given that this is an expensive and new treatment, consult with a dermatologist first to make sure it’s right for you.

Microneedling

has emerged as a potential treatment for hair loss, particularly androgenetic alopecia in men. The procedure involves using a device equipped with fine needles to create thousands of tiny to the scalp’s dermis. This controlled damage stimulates your natural wound healing process. As a result, this increases blood flow and growth factors, which are both vital for hair growth. When combined with other treatments, such as topical minoxidil, microneedling has been shown to augment their efficacy, allowing for better absorption and amplified results. have indicated positive outcomes with microneedling, with many patients experiencing a noticeable increase in hair density and thickness. Nevertheless, as with any therapeutic intervention, the success of microneedling can be variable. It’s essential for individuals considering this treatment to consult with a dermatologist or specialist healthcare practitioner to its potential benefits, risks and how to use it.

Platelet-rich Plasma (PRP)

has gained a lot of attention as a promising treatment for androgenetic alopecia. This procedure uses the body’s own regenerative abilities. A draws a sample of your blood and spins it down in a centrifuge. This isolates and concentrates platelets and growth factors. This is then injected into affected areas of the scalp. The growth factors within PRP are believed to stimulate dormant hair follicles and ones. So far, but limited. Studies show that some patients have reported a noticeable improvement in hair thickness, but this varies. More data and higher level clinical trials are still needed to validate it. PRP is a medical procedure and should be done in a clinical setting. If you are considering PRP, speak with a or other qualified medical practitioner to ensure it is suitable for you.

If you’re struggling with hair loss, remember you’re not alone. This is a very common problem for both men and women. Stopping hair loss can be difficult but not impossible. However, there are a number of good treatments and the best one will depend on the cause of your hair loss and individual response. There usually isn’t a one-off solution and you may require more than one approach. Also, results regardless of treatment will take time and consistency. To set yourself up for success, adopt a holistic approach that takes into account your overall health and wellbeing. These are closely tied to hair health. Also be aware that whilst some treatments might work wonders for some, this is variable. So be patient with yourself and set realistic expectations. If your hair loss is sudden or unexplained, start by seeing a doctor to check whether there is an underlying cause.

At City Skin Clinic, we strongly believe that hair care should be . This is why our doctors provide personalised and through our online clinic. We use prescription-strength like , , and where appropriate. To start your personalised plan, book a or use . The journey towards great skin and hair .

This article is intended for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always consult a qualified medical provider for any health concerns or you might have.

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