Male pattern baldness – FAQs

The most common type of male hair loss is known as male pattern baldness; as the term suggests, this type of baldness follows a typical pattern. Your hairline starts to recede first, followed by gradual thinning of hair on the crown. Eventually the receding hairline meets the crown, leaving a thin covering of hair on either side of the head. Go through the following FAQs section to find out more about male pattern hair loss.

What causes male pattern baldness?

It is caused by hormonal and genetic factors. Testosterone, a natural hormone in males, is converted to dihydrotestosterone (DHT) by an enzyme known as 5-alpha reductase. DHT acts on the hair follicles with detrimental results on hair production and growth.

You may also go bald because of genetic factors. Research has indicated that a certain gene variation can cause pattern hair loss in men. You can inherit the gene either from your mother's side or from your father's side.

Who are most likely to be affected by male pattern hair loss?

This type of hair fall can affect any man regardless of age, race or ethnicity. You can experience the symptoms in your early teens or twenties if the testosterone stock in your body gets depleted because of higher levels of 5-alpha reductase, or if anyone in your family has had the problem before.

Does it require treatment?

Male pattern baldness is not a medical condition it itself as it does not cause any harm to your health. So whether or not you should go for treatments is entirely up to you. But if you are a young man with symptoms of pattern hair loss, you may wish to seek medical help to gain social acceptance. 

How can male pattern baldness be treated?

Even though there is no known cure for male pattern baldness, you can try finasteride to prevent hair loss. Branded under the trade name Propecia, this FDA-approved drug can prevent the harmful impact of DHT on hair follicles and keep the follicles working normally for production and growth of hair. Finasteride is a 5-alpha reductase blocker which prevents DHT from coming in direct contact with the follicles. So the follicles remain alive and capable of producing new hair.

What are the side effects of finasteride?

The most common side effects of finasteride are rashes and itching. Only a small percentage of men using Propecia have reported sexual problems, including low libido, erection problems and low semen volume. Talk to your doctor immediately if any of these problems occurs after using the medicine.

How can I take care of my hair on a regular basis?

Male pattern baldness or atypical hair loss, your hair is bound to come off someday. But while it is there, you need to be careful not to cause damage to your hair. Do not pin your hair or use spiky accessories for cosmetic needs. Wash your hair regularly with well blended shampoos or other haircare products. Do not use blow dryers excessively. While combing your hair, use soft brushes to prevent damage to the scalp.