Understanding Androgenetic Alopecia: What to Know

If you find a flock of hair in your bathroom, kitchen or elsewhere recently, you might have androgenetic alopecia. Though the term may sound a little complex, the underlying concept is simple—permanent hair loss. After knowing the difference between hair fall and hair loss, you might have an idea of what androgenetic alopecia is. If not, do not worry, you can still know about it in this blog which serves you in identifying whether you have it or not. Without any delay, let us get into it.

Androgenetic alopecia: a lasting nightmare

Almost every man after his 30s complains about getting bald and some even do quite early. Though their severity may differ, the problem is common—Androgenetic alopecia. Popularly called male pattern baldness, this culprit haunts many men after a specific age and the cause differs from person to person. Although it begins with mild hair loss, it intensifies with time leading to permanent hair loss, the stage of no hair regain.

Causes of Androgenetic Alopecia

When various study claims several hypotheses, scientists have confirmed two evident reasons for androgenetic alopecia which are the causes in most cases. Genetics play a major role in getting androgenetic alopecia and hormones on the other hand have an equal play over it. 

Genetics: The DNA copies

Some family lines have early balding particularly men in the ancestors. Your father and grandfather from both family sides might have early hair loss, and this could be your suspicion of hair fall. It happens because of genetic transfer from one generation to the next. You could be the succeeding source of androgenetic alopecia to your son. Although it is disappointing and inevitable, the condition can be managed with a few changes and treatments.

Hormones: The androgen grooves

Dihydrotestosterone or DHT, a derivative of testosterone (i.e., male hormone) is responsible for healthy hair growth and its sustainability with age. The low performance of dihydrotestosterone affects susceptible individuals by causing hair follicles to shrink. Over time, this results in thinner, shorter hair strands and eventually halts hair growth.

The reason why Androgenetic alopecia begins in the 30s is due to the decline of testosterone during that period. Teenage boys and just-married men are likely to show a high level of testosterone and thus the impact on hair.

Symptoms of Androgenetic Alopecia

The symptoms of androgenetic alopecia vary among individuals. Some of the symptoms people shown are;

Receding Hairline

Androgenetic alopecia often starts with mild receding at the temples, forming an “M” shape. The M void increases with time, leading to severe hair receding, popularly called advanced side receding.

Thinning at the crown

Simultaneously, Hair loss begins at the top of the head, often creating a bald spot that expands over time. You might have seen this among aged persons and not often with young men. 

Progressive Hair loss

Hair continues to thin in the affected areas, eventually leading to partial or complete baldness on the top of the head, while the sides and back usually retain hair.

Stages of Androgenetic Alopecia Hair Loss

For male pattern baldness/ androgenetic alopecia, we usually measure the stage with the Norwood scale. It has seven levels of severity. 

In the first stage, men find minimal or hair hairline recession and then slight recession at the temples forming a “V” shape at the front. The third level intense with the deepening recession at the temples, is usually considered the onset of significant hair loss.

More severe hair loss at the crown is seen in the fourth stage. Followed by, hair loss at the crown and frontal begins to merge, creating a “U” shape around the sides. In stage 6, hair loss at the crown and front becomes more extensive with minimal hair connecting the sides.

In the most advanced stage, there would only be a band of hair around the sides and back of the head. And in this level, the chances of retaining hair are difficult or impossible. The only way to cover it is through an external prosthetic like a wig.

Time to consult a doctor

It is a good idea to consult a doctor about androgenetic alopecia when you notice any of the following:

1. Sudden or rapid hair loss

2. Bald spots or patches

3. Hair loss at an early age

4. Emotional or psychological distress

5. Scalp pain, itching, or inflammation

6. Interest in treatments or preventative measures

Home treatment for Androgenetic alopecia

Taking home treatment for androgenetic alopecia is the least effective however, these tips might help recover you in the beginner or intermediate stage.

Scalp massage

Blood circulation is essential for regulating continuous hair growth. If you are not an active or workaholic, you might need scalp massage regularly. Not only does it control hair loss but also reduces stress which later induces cortisol, a hormone that pulls off hair loss.

Essential oils

There are several essential oils available in the market and you just have to choose one of your own choice. Although every essential oil contributes to hair growth, some of them like rosemary, almond oil, bhrigaraj, and onion oil have been rigorous hair inducers through the ages. Check for 100% purity labels as some brands could pretend to be genuine despite not being. Another tip to remember before buying is to look for oil in a dark glass bottle or transfer the oil into some glass dim in colour as it could help protect the oil’s quality.

Aloe vera

Aloe vera is indeed a great option for people with dry and frizzy hair. Even if you do not have dense hair at all, using aloe vera in your hair care will give a look of having shiny and thick hair. It has immense hydrating properties that will quench the thirst of your barren strands. 

Onion juice

Being a universal hair problem solution, onion juice solves almost every hair complaint. Its anti-microbial properties help to prevent dandruff or quell dandruff permanently. Various reports claim evidence of incoming baby hair after using onion in any form. You could either buy onion-based products or DIY onion juice at home, a penny-wise option. Making onion juice is very simple yet effective. Just take 5-6 small onions (preferable). Paste it and strain the juice. Mix it with oil for sensitive scalps or use it directly for others.

Green tea 

Dieticians suggest their clients intake green tea to cut their weight, especially overweight individuals in fast kg reduction. Apart from being an effective slim downer, green tea also impacts largely hair growth areas. The epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) in green tea prevents hair loss by inhibiting the activity of hormones that induce hair loss and promoting hair regrowth by stimulating hair follicles.

Healthy diet and hydration

To stay healthy and keep track of hydrating oneself is not a new piece of advice you might be hearing for the first time. Though it is an old saying, the role it plays in getting luscious hair and smoother skin is impressive. Almost half your body including hair is made of water. Thus, drinking 3 to 4 liters of water is essential. At the same time, the nutrients you take must be in a balanced proportion of fibers, carbohydrates and proteins, again which helps build hair and muscles. A good diet will aid in constructing healthy hair strands while water is for better nutrient absorption.