Androgenic alopecia (AGA), commonly known as male-pattern baldness or female-pattern hair loss, is a genetic condition that causes hair loss due to the influence of androgens (male hormones, though they are also present in females). It is the most common form of hair loss in both men and women.
Causes:
- Genetics: AGA is primarily inherited. If one or both parents have a history of hair loss, there’s a higher chance of developing AGA.
- Androgens: These hormones, particularly dihydrotestosterone (DHT), play a key role. DHT is derived from testosterone and can shrink hair follicles, leading to shorter and thinner hair. Over time, this results in the gradual loss of hair density.
- Age: The condition often becomes more noticeable with age, typically starting in the 20s or 30s for men and later in women, often after menopause.
Symptoms and Patterns:
- In Men:
Androgenic alopecia typically begins with a receding hairline, followed by thinning at the crown of the head. Over time, it can lead to bald spots or complete hair loss on the top of the head, while the hair around the sides and back often remains thick. - In Women:
Hair loss tends to be more diffuse and occurs mainly on the crown or top of the scalp. Women are less likely to experience total baldness, but hair may become noticeably thinner, especially along the part line.
Mechanism of Hair Loss:
- Hair Follicle Miniaturization: DHT binds to androgen receptors in hair follicles, causing them to shrink (miniaturize). Over time, this results in the production of finer, shorter hairs and eventually stops hair production altogether.
- Hair Growth Cycle Disruption: The growth phase of hair (anagen phase) shortens, and the shedding phase (telogen phase) lengthens, leading to more hair falling out and less new hair growing in.
Risk Factors:
- Family History: A strong hereditary link exists, with both male and female relatives potentially having similar patterns of hair loss.
- Hormonal Changes: Particularly in women, changes like menopause, pregnancy, or conditions that affect hormone levels (like polycystic ovary syndrome) can exacerbate hair thinning.
- Age: The risk of developing androgenic alopecia increases with age.
Dr. Friedman’s Alopecia Management:
- Lab Tests
- Vitamins
- Oral Prescription Medications
- Topical Prescription Medications
- Office Injections and Laser Treatments
Androgenic alopecia is a common, albeit distressing, condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Although it may not always be preventable, several effective treatment options can help manage and mitigate the effects of hair loss.
