Male pattern baldness is a common hair loss condition that affects millions of men worldwide. The chances of developing male pattern baldness increase with age. About 25% of people assigned male at birth see the first signs of hair loss before age 21. By age 50, half experience hair loss, and about 70% will lose hair as they get older.It is also known as androgenetic alopecia, and it is caused by a combination of genetic and hormonal factors. Male pattern baldness is a gradual process that typically starts with a receding hairline and thinning hair on the crown of the head. Over time, the hair follicles on the affected areas of the scalp become smaller and produce finer, shorter hairs until they eventually stop producing hair altogether. The hair growth phase becomes shorter, while the hair shedding phase becomes more elongated.
Male pattern baldness is classified according to the Norwood-Hamilton scale, which measures the extent and pattern of hair loss. It generally begins slowly at the temples and the crown of the head and can progress to the back of the head, leaving only a horseshoe-shaped ring of hair around the sides and back. Male pattern baldness is more common in men above the age of 50, but it can also affect younger men, especially those with a family history of the condition. It is one of the leading causes of baldness in men.
The main cause of male pattern baldness is the hormone dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which is a by-product of testosterone. Dihydrotestosterone is an endogenous androgen sex steroid and hormone. The enzyme 5α-reductase catalyzes the formation of DHT from testosterone in certain tissues including the prostate gland, seminal vesicles, epididymides, skin, hair follicles, liver, and brain.DHT shrinks hair follicles, shortening their lifespan and eventually leading to hair loss. This is a process known as miniaturization. The amount of dihydrotestosterone present in the body from day to day depends on the amount of testosterone present. When levels of testosterone increase, more of it is converted to dihydrotestosterone and so levels of dihydrotestosterone also increase as a result.Often, lifestyle factors such as diet, stress, and smoking can also contribute to hair loss.
Some men may experience hair thinning or hair loss due to other medical conditions, such as alopecia areata, thyroid disorders, or lifestyle issues or scalp infections. In these cases, proper diagnosis and treatment of the underlying condition can help prevent further hair loss.
There are several treatment options available for male pattern baldness, including ayurveda based hair care products. These treatments can help slow down or reverse hair loss, but they may not be effective for everyone. Additionally, maintaining a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet, regular exercise, hydration and stress management techniques can also help improve hair health and reduce the risk of hair loss.
