How to Cope with Male Pattern Hair Loss

No matter how old you are, the experience of losing your hair can be incredibly daunting, but don’t worry – you’re not alone. Although the British Association of Dermatologists state that male pattern hair loss affects around 50 percent of men over the age of 50, some experience a significant amount of hair loss while in their 20s. In the UK, it affects around 6.5 million men and all men experience some degree of baldness as they age. Here is a short guide to male pattern hair loss and various solutions to help restore your hair.

What is Male Pattern Hair Loss?

Male pattern hair loss (MPHL), also known as androgenetic alopecia, is the most common type of hair loss among men in the UK. This type of hair loss is caused by age, genetics and hormones. It is general knowledge that male pattern hair loss is hereditary, so if your older male family members lost hair early, chances are you will too. Besides genetics, MPHL can occur due to hormonal factors too. When a man’s hormone levels change during their life, the hair follicles on the scalp change too. Hair becomes smaller, shorter and lighter, and eventually the follicles stop producing hair completely.

First Signs of Male Pattern Hair Loss

The dreaded receding hairline is often the first sign of MPHL, while some may notice thinning at the top of the head. The hair in balding areas are usually smaller and shorter than hair in other areas of the head. The affected areas will eventually lose all hair.

Reverse the Effects

FUE hair transplants are minimally invasive procedures that can help reverse the effects of MPHL. It involves delicately removing individual hair follicles from the back and sides of the head and transplanting them to areas that are balding. When performed by certified surgeons, this treatment can produce effective results. Harley Street Hair Clinic employs surgeons who specialise in hair restoration and can successfully perform a hair transplant in just a few hours. For more information about FUE transplants and other restorative services, visit hshairclinic.co.uk.

Give the Appearance of a Full Head of Hair

Advanced tricho pigmentation, or ATP, is a treatment that mimics the appearance of natural hair. It is a non-surgical procedure that involves applying natural pigments to the scalp. This treatment is also referred to as a medical hair tattoo.

Encourage Growth With Medication

Minoxidil and finasteride are highly recommended treatments for male pattern hair loss, but they need to be continuously taken for good results. Minoxidil is a topical treatment that must be applied to the scalp in the hope that it increases nutrients and oxygen. In turn, this should encourage hair growth. Finasteride is taken orally and impedes the production of a hormone called DHT, ultimately it can slow hair loss. For those seeking this medication, it is now possible to buy finasteride online after consultation and prescription from a doctor. However, both minoxidil and finasteride can be costly solutions in the long term and can require long term commitment.

Embrace It

Although going bald may feel like the end of the world for some, many men choose to simply live with it. After all, there are a plethora of successful, good looking men who pull off the look. Take Bruce Willis, the Rock and Jason Statham for instance. All three celebrities rock a shaved head.