Pattern hair loss (Androgenetic Alopecia) is the most common type of hair loss and can arise in Men and Women. The cause of male pattern hair loss is likely to the hair follicle being more sensitive to the male hormone dihydrotestosterone. Most men do not have an excess of male hormones (androgens) but these hormones are responsible for male pattern hair loss. This then causes hair follicles to shrink and eventually stop producing hair.
The cause of female pattern hair loss is not well understood. Most women do not have an excess of male hormones (androgens) but the hair follicle may be more sensitive to normal levels of hormone. This increased sensitivity may be inherited. Decreasing oestrogen levels may also play a role.
Treatments for Male Pattern Hair Loss
Minoxidil Solution
Minoxidil solution is licensed at 2% and 5% strength for men. The lotion should be applied twice daily to the scalp. Treatment should be continued long term if benefit is seen.
Minoxidil Tablets
Unlike topical minoxidil, which is applied directly to the scalp, oral minoxidil is taken in tablet form. As oral minoxidil is taken systemically, it can have more widespread effects on the body than topical minoxidil. This means that it may be more effective for hair growth, but it may also have more side effects, such as low blood pressure, fluid retention, and hair growth in other areas of the body. For this reason, oral minoxidil is typically only prescribed for severe cases of hair loss that have not responded to other treatments. It is important to talk to a healthcare provider before starting any hair loss treatment, including oral minoxidil.
5α Reductase Inhibitors
Finasteride inhibits the conversion of testosterone to the more active dihydrotestosterone and is licensed at low strength to treat male pattern hair loss. Most people tolerate treatment with no side effects. Potential side effects include decreased libido, impotence and breast tissue tenderness. Side effects are infrequent and reversible on stopping treatment. Treatment works best when started early before hair loss is advanced. Treatment needs to be continued long term.
Stem Cell Therapy
Kerastem Advance Hair Therapy is used for early to moderate male pattern hair loss.
Hair Transplantation
Hair follicles can be harvested from the non-hormone dependent hair at the back of the head and transplanted to areas of hair loss in the frontal area.
We recommend seeing a medical professional to accurately diagnose and manage your hair loss. Active treatment should be trialled for a minimum of 12 months before deciding on whether it has been beneficial or not.