From Genetics to Stress: Why Men Lose Hair and What to Do About It

Male pattern baldness, or androgenetic alopecia, is a common problem faced by millions of men around the world. For many, it becomes a source of stress and dissatisfaction with their appearance. Let's look at the main causes of male pattern baldness and offer proven methods for combating this phenomenon.

Causes of male pattern baldness

1. Genetics. If you have relatives with baldness, the likelihood that you will face the same problem is significantly higher. Genetic predisposition plays a key role in the development of androgenetic alopecia. Research confirms that genes passed on from parents can significantly affect the condition of the hair.

2. Hormones. The main culprit of male pattern baldness is the hormone dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a derivative of testosterone. DHT affects the hair follicles, shortening their life cycle and making the hair thinner, which ultimately leads to hair loss. This explains why many men start losing hair in certain areas, such as the crown and forehead.

3. Age. Baldness is often associated with age. The onset of this process usually occurs in the 30s and 40s, and with each decade the likelihood increases. According to statistics, more than 50% of men over 50 have noticeable signs of baldness.

4. Medical conditions. Certain medical conditions, such as thyroid disorders, autoimmune diseases, anemia, and vitamin deficiencies, can contribute to hair loss. These conditions can disrupt the normal hair growth cycle, leading to premature hair loss.

5. Lifestyle and stress. Chronic stress, poor diet, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption can also negatively affect hair health. For example, stress can cause telogen effluvium, in which a significant amount of hair prematurely enters the shedding phase.

6. Medications. Certain medications, such as those used to treat cancer, arthritis, depression, heart disease, and high blood pressure, can cause hair loss as a side effect. It is important to consult with your doctor about the possible effects of medications.

Methods of combating baldness that you can use yourself

1. Cosmetics:

• Shampoos and conditioners: Some shampoos and conditioners contain active ingredients such as biotin, caffeine, and keratin that can strengthen hair and improve its appearance. Their effectiveness in stopping hair loss is limited, but they can help maintain the health of remaining hair.
• Serums and oils: Products containing growth-promoting ingredients such as minoxidil can help improve the condition of hair. It is important to choose products that are certified and dermatologist-approved to minimize the risk of side effects.

2. Diet and Supplements:

• Healthy Diet: A diet rich in vitamins and minerals such as vitamin D, zinc, iron, and omega-3 fatty acids helps maintain healthy hair. Foods rich in these nutrients include fish, nuts, seeds, eggs, and green leafy vegetables.
• Dietary Supplements: Supplements with biotin, collagen, and other nutrients can help improve the health of your hair and scalp. It is important to consult with your doctor before taking any supplements.

3. Alternative methods:

• Scalp massage: Regular massage can improve blood circulation and stimulate hair follicles. This is a simple technique that can be done on your own or with the help of special massagers.
• Essential oils: Certain essential oils, such as rosemary and lavender, can improve scalp health and promote hair growth. They are often used in combination with carrier oils, such as coconut or jojoba.

Expectations vs. Reality

It is important to have realistic expectations about the results of self-treatment for baldness. Some methods can slow down the process of hair loss or improve the appearance of hair, but do not guarantee complete restoration of hair thickness. Results may vary depending on the individual characteristics of each person.

Baldness in men is a complex problem caused by many factors, including genetics, hormones, age and lifestyle. There are many methods and products that can help slow down the process of baldness and improve the condition of hair. Many of these methods can be used at home, but it is recommended to consult with a doctor or dermatologist to choose the most appropriate treatment. The right approach and realistic expectations will help you cope with this problem more effectively and improve your quality of life. If you have additional questions or need advice from a specialist, do not hesitate to contact a medical professional.