What Treatment Is There For Hair Loss In Men?

There are very few scientifically proven and FDA-approved treatments for hair loss. There are thousands of unproven claims and products to help with hair regrowth. Many conditioners, shampoos, vitamins, and other products claim to help hair grow in some unspecified way. Nioxin has been a popular brand of shampoo for hair loss, but there is no definite evidence showing it is any more effective than regular shampoos. These products are usually harmless but generally not scientifically proven and therefore potentially useless. To slow down hair loss, there are at least four potentially effective, basic options. These include medications like Minoxidil, and Propecia, which are for long-term use. Stopping these drugs does not seem to worsen or exacerbate the prior hair loss. The patient will simply revert to the state he would have been in had he never started treatment.

Male-Pattern Baldness, Female-Pattern Baldness?

    This type of alopecia is often attributed to genetic predisposition and family history. Androgenic alopecia is seen in both men and women. The hair loss in men is often faster, earlier onset, and more extensive.

Hair Loss Index

What is traction alopecia?

   This is a small or localized hair loss area caused by repetitive or persistent pulling or traction on hair roots. Tight braids and ponytails can pull hard enough on hairs to make them fall out. If this happens, it's best to choose hairstyles that put less tension on hair. The sooner this is done the better to avoid permanent damage.

How Do Physicians Classify Hair Loss?

    There are numerous ways to categorize hair loss. One must first examine the scalp to determine if the hair loss is due to the physical destruction and loss of hair follicles. If the scalp appears perfectly normal with plenty of empty hair follicles, this is called non-scarring hair loss. On the other hand, the follicles are permanently destroyed in scarring hair loss. Localized, small areas, large areas, or the whole scalp may be affected in scarring and non-scarring hair loss. Non-scarring hair loss can also be seen in situations where there is physical or chemical damage to the hair shaft resulting in breakage. Occasionally, it may be necessary to do a biopsy of the scalp to distinguish these conditions. Sometimes, a physician may pull a hair to examine the appearance of the hair shaft as well as the percentage of growing hairs (anagen phase). This article will concentrate on the non-scarring types of hair loss.

Hair Loss Facts

• Hair loss is a very common condition and affects most people at some time in their lives.
• Hair loss from breakage of the hair shaft is different than hair loss from decreased hair growth.
• Androgenetic hair loss is seen in both men and women but is worse in men.
• Thyroid disease, anemia, protein deficiency, and low vitamin levels may cause hair loss.
• Alopecia areata is a relatively common cause of hair loss that usually resolves on its own.
• Medications indicated for hair regrowth include minoxidil (Rogaine) and finasteride (Propecia).
• Prevention of hair loss includes good hair hygiene, regular shampooing, and good nutrition.
• Medical health screening for hair loss may include blood tests such as complete blood count (CBC), iron level, vitamin B, and thyroid function tests (TFT).