What is hair loss?

Male-pattern hair loss is a common condition in which men experience thinning of the hair on the scalp. This results in a receding hairline and/or balding on the top of the head. Generally, it takes 15-25 years to go bald. However, some men go bald in fewer than five years. Male-pattern baldness affects 6.5 million men in the UK.

Male-pattern baldness is is the most common type of hair loss. It affects around half of all men by 50 years of age. Hair loss in men usually starts around the late twenties. Most men have some degree of hair loss by their late thirties.

What are the symptoms of hair loss?

The early symptoms of hair loss include hair beginning to thin or recede at the sides. Eventually, a bald patch gradually develops in the middle of the scalp. This bald patch grows to leave a ring of hair around the back and sides of the scalp.

What are the causes of hair loss?

Male-pattern baldness is an inherited condition. It is caused by dihydrotestosterone which causes the hair follicles to shrink. Eventually, the hair follicles become so small that they cannot replace the lost hairs.

How can you try to treat hair loss?

There are medications that can be taken that stimulate hair growth and slow hair loss. Available medications for male-pattern baldness include:

• Propecia
• Finasteride
• Regaine

Alternatively to taking medication, men can wear wigs or consult a plastic surgeon to see if plastic surgery is a viable option for them.

Can you prevent hair loss?

Some medications can help slow hair loss and encourage hair regrowth. Unfortunately, you can’t prevent hair loss. Male-pattern baldness is usually inherited.