Are you suffering from a receding hair line? Is your mirror showing you a bald patch at the crown. If so, then you are not alone - balding is a common phenomenon that affects many men as they age. It is believed that by the age of 35, two-thirds of men will experience some degree of hair loss, and this number rises to approximately 85% people by the time they reach the age of 50 years. While there is no one single reason of balding, there are several factors including genetics and lifestyle factors that can contribute to this condition. In this blog, we will explore why men start balding and what can be done to prevent or slow down the process.
One of the most significant factors contributing to balding is genetics. Male-pattern baldness is also known as androgenetic alopecia and it is one of the most common form of hair loss in men. It is often brought about by a genetic predisposition. This condition is inherited from either side of the family and is more likely to occur as men age. Male-pattern baldness is characterized by a receding hairline and thinning at the crown of the head.
Often, hormones also play a role in male balding. Testosterone is a hormone found in both men and women (though in higher amounts in men. It is converted into dihydrotestosterone (DHT) by an enzyme called 5-alpha reductase. DHT is a hormone that can cause hair follicles to shrink, leading to hair loss. This process is called “miniaturization”. Men with high levels of DHT are more likely to experience balding.
As men age, their hair follicles become less efficient at producing hair, leading to thinning and balding. Additionally, the hair growth cycle becomes shorter, meaning that hair falls out more quickly and is not replaced as efficiently. This gets pronounced with age. Age-related hair loss tends to be more gradual and less severe than male-pattern baldness.
Certain medical conditions can also contribute to hair loss in men. For example, thyroid problems, autoimmune disorders, and scalp infections can all cause hair loss. Additionally, some medications, such as chemotherapy drugs, may also cause hair loss as a side effect.
While stress is not a direct cause of balding, it can contribute to hair loss in men. High levels of stress can disrupt the hair growth cycle, leading to increased shedding and slower regrowth. Stress-induced hair loss is often temporary and can be reversed once the underlying stressor is addressed.
There are several ways to slow down or prevent hair loss. These include:
- A good, ayurveda based hair care routine helps by slowing down the rate of hair loss and promoting hair growth.
- Eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and managing stress can all help to promote healthy hair growth.
- Avoiding excess chemical treatments and heat styling options help to further reduce the stress on the hair.
A good hair care routine can help manage hair loss in men. Try and adopt a good routine now !
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