GETTING TO THE ROOT OF HAIR LOSS
November 28, 2019GETTING TO THE ROOT OF HAIR LOSS
Hair loss is a dreaded condition. Balding can be a tough blow to the most rugged of menfolk, though two of every three men begin balding by age 60. Still, it’s like a punch in the gut when hair follicles won’t stay in place. It’s only natural to want answers to key questions: Why is my hair falling out, and can I stop the process of hair loss? Some helpful answers are below.
Top 3 Reasons for Hair Loss
There are dozens of reasons people experience hair loss, though some are much more common than others. Everyone prefers to maintain a full head of hair, which is why it’s important to learn, for instance, how health issues can contribute to hair loss and whether anything can be done to reverse certain conditions. The following are three of the many reasons for hair loss.
1-Heredity
Genetics is a critical factor that affects whether or not you will bald. Male pattern baldness, or androgenetic alopecia, refers to a particular pattern of hair thinning on the crown or a receding hairline. Research shows that men are more at risk for developing male pattern baldness if they have a bald father. Genetically, baldness is complex, since the primary baldness gene is on a chromosome handed down only by mothers. One bit of good news is that when a man comes by male pattern baldness through genetics, there are usually no harmful side effects. While there is no cure for baldness caused by genetics, there are various treatments that can be effective, which a hair restoration professional can help you with.
2-A Male Hormone
Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) is a male steroid hormone that can be responsible for hair loss. DHT is a male sex hormone, and it is a byproduct of testosterone. If heredity has made you susceptible to hair loss, DHT can cause your hair follicles to shrink, become weak, and eventually die. The problem starts when DHT binds to receptors in your scalp. There are various methods for blocking DHT, such as using a topical shampoo or spray with DHT blockers. These methods are never fully effective. Certain prescription oral medications, such as finasteride, block DHT at its source by preventing the body from producing the hormone. Like all drugs, there are certain potential side effects and risks associated with finasteride (Propecia, Proscar), which should be discussed with your physician.
3-Stress
Stress, physical and/or mental, is a hazardous health condition associated with many serious diseases. When under severe stress, the body goes into shock, resulting in a flood of hormones and metabolites being released into your body. One of the effects of stress is telogen effluvium or shedding of the hair. Other research shows that spikes in cortisol levels associated with stress block the hormone that makes lost hair follicles grow back. If stress is the culprit causing hair loss, take steps such as adding stress-reducing activities to your life and avoiding toxic people and situations. Your doctor may also be able to recommend products that can stimulate hair follicle production.
If you are experiencing hair loss, you may find the perfect solution at Loria Medical Hair Loss Center. Dr. Victor Loria is a hair restoration specialist and the founder of Loria Medical. Learn more about why your hair is falling out by calling 866-MD-HAIRS (866-634-2477) today to make an appointment.