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The problem of excessive hair loss can significantly lower self-esteem. Alopecia most often occurs in men over 40, but this does not mean that it does not also affect younger men, or even women. What are the most common causes of baldness? Is it possible to prevent this phenomenon?
What is baldness?
Physiologically, we lose 50 to 100 hairs a day. It is related to the natural cycle of their reconstruction. The problem begins when more than 100 hairs a day are found on the brush, in the shower or in the corners of the apartment / car / office. This situation must persist for many weeks. Alopecia may affect every second man over the age of 50, although it does not mean that significant hair loss is not experienced by men who are several decades younger. The diagnosis of alopecia applies to people whose hair loss is greater than 30%. It is worth emphasizing that this troublesome ailment is not only of a purely physiological nature. It often translates into a reduction in life drive, loss of self-confidence, and even depression and anxiety. All this can cause disturbances in the field of interpersonal relationships.
There can be many causes of hair loss. Some of them can only be controlled by lifestyle changes, while others are related to genetic factors, ongoing body diseases, and even the type of chronic medication taken. The latter require a specialized approach, often visiting a dermatologist or experienced trichologist.
The most common causes of hair loss include:
- improper eating habits, including malnutrition,
- intensive slimming,
- autoimmune diseases,
- postpartum period,
- chemo-radiotherapy,
- iron deficiency in the body,
- food intolerances,
- heavy metal poisoning,
- long-term stress,
- skin diseases, including mycosis, psoriasis,
- hormonal disorders.
There are many types of alopecia (including areata, telogen, scarring), however, androgenetic alopecia is the most frequently mentioned in the literature.
Androgenetic alopecia – what is it?
According to statistics, androgenetic alopecia occurs in as many as 80 percent. men after puberty [1]. It also affects women, but to a much lesser extent. In its course, a disturbance in the level of androgens, and more precisely testosterone, is observed. As a result of the conversion of the latter into dihydrotestosterone, there is a slow but progressive atrophy of the hair follicles. The reduction in hair density generally begins in the fronto-temporal and parietal areas. In advanced stages, only the occipital part of the head grows on hair.
According to statistics, every second man over 40 struggles with the problem of androgenetic alopecia. In women, hair loss may appear much earlier, after the age of 30, but it affects a smaller population – 6%. (after the age of 70, this value increases to 40%) [2].
Interestingly, scientific studies have shown a relationship with androgenetic alopecia and ischemic heart disease and prostate hypertrophy [1].
Ways to fight androgenetic alopecia
Both conservative and surgical methods are used in the treatment of androgenetic alopecia. It is worth starting with the implementation of appropriate care tailored to the needs of the scalp.
Healthy, strong and shiny hair is also due to a proper diet and supplementation. It should be rich in natural sources of vitamins and minerals. Women struggling with androgenetic alopecia should limit any artificial interference in the hair structure. We are talking about dyeing treatments, drying with too hot air, constantly tying the hair, using a straightener and a curling iron.
A sensible step is to see a dermatologist who will check the condition of the scalp and, if necessary, order additional tests.
Alopexy – an OTC drug for androgenetic alopecia in men
Alopexy, an over-the-counter medicine, is a solution for use on the scalp. It is intended for men over 18 and under 65 with moderate androgenetic alopecia. The active substance of the preparation is minoxidil – 50 mg in 1 ml. When administered topically, it stimulates both hair and keratinocytes (these are epidermal cells) growth in a certain group of patients with androgenetic alopecia.
The material was created in cooperation with Pierre Fabre Dermo-Cosmetique Polska Sp. z o. o
PFDC/363/2021