| The normal cycle of hair growth lasts 2 to 6 years. Each hair grows approximately 1 centimeter (less than half an inch) per month during this phase. Approximately 85% of the hair on the scalp is growing at any one time. Approximately 15% of the hair on the scalp, at any one time, is in a resting phase. As soon as the resting stage is over, and new hair begins to grow in its place.
Each hair sits in follicle. Ordinarily, an enzyme in hair follicles converts testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT) that stimulates the growth of hair, but also shrinks hair follicles on the scalp, causing finer, fuzzier growth. A genetic predisposition to excessive hair loss, coupled by high levels of testosterone and DHT, increases the likelihood of hair loss. Baldness occurs when the number of shed hair is larger than the rate of re-growth or when the re-growth is finer and/or shorter than the hair that is shed.
Male pattern excessive hair loss is not considered a medical condition, but it can adversely influence self-esteem or bring on anxiety. Since excessive hair loss is a cosmetic defect, treatment is not compulsory if you are comfortable with your physical appearance. Hair weaving, hairpieces, or change of a hairstyle may disguise baldness. This is usually the least expensive and safest option to male excessive hair loss.
Nevertheless, if you are not comfortable with the way you look, drugs may help decelerate or prevent the development of undue hair loss.
Rogaine (minoxidil) is a solution that you apply to the scalp to stimulate hair follicles. It slows down hair loss for many males, and some men grow new hair. If you stop applying the drug, the hair will start to fall out before application.
Propecia (finasteride) is a prescription drug that inhibits the production of the male hormone dihydrotestosterone. Like Rogaine, you are more likely to have slower hair loss than actual new hair growth. Generally, it is more potent than minoxidil. If you stop applying the drug, the hair will begin to fall out before the treatment.
A variety of surgical treatments involving hair follicle transplantation and other procedures are also available.
Ask your physician about the options mentioned above or any concerns you have about undue hair loss. |
