Hair Loss In Men: Everything you need to know

85% of men will have major hair thinning by the time they’re 50. And while hair loss doesn’t harm your health, it can certainly cause emotional stress. Male hair loss is almost always hereditary and usually starts in your 20’s. While hair loss usually occurs slowly over 15-25, in some cases the process can take as little as 5 years.

How Hair Loss Works
Occasionally, hair loss in men can be caused by medication, stress, or a dietary imbalance. Most of the time, however, the cause of men’s hair loss is androgenic hair loss, also known as male pattern baldness.

So what causes hair thinning in men? During androgenic hair loss, the male hormone (DHT) causes hair follicles to shrink. Eventually, the hair follicles will shrink so much that they can no longer sustain hair, leading to hair loss.

The extent to which your hair is affected by DHT is all due to genetics. Hair loss tends to begin at the temples and crown. Eventually, these areas will meet causing the horseshoe pattern. Hair loss is tracked in the medical community by the Norwood scale.

Men’s Hair Loss Treatment Options
It’s easier to keep the hair that you have rather than try to grow it back. This is why it’s important to catch hair loss as early as possible and seek treatment right away. Also, be wary of miracle products. While there are some treatments for hair loss, there is no cure.

Minoxidil
Minoxidil is an FDA-approved over-the-counter topical treatment for hair loss. Minoxidil is the active ingredient in Rogaine. About 40% of men using Minoxidil experience hair regrowth after 3-6 months. Side effects can include skin irritation at the application site and unwanted hair growth in other areas. However, the effects aren’t permanent. Once you stop using Minoxidil, you will lose your hair again.

Finasteride
Finasteride, more commonly known as Propecia, is an oral medication sometimes prescribed for hair loss. The medication works by blocking production of DHT, the hormone that causes male pattern hair loss. Finasteride slows hair loss, and can provide around 30% improvement in hair loss after 6 months. However, finasteride can cause unpleasant side effects. As with minoxidil, the effects will end if you stop taking the medication.

Hair Growth Laser Devices
Hair growth laser devices increases growth factors for more oxygen and nutrients to your hair follicles. HairMax works through the process of Photo Biostimulation. It uses safe, nourishing low level laser light energy to stimulate the hair follicles at a cellular level. This helps to promote hair growth and extend your hair’s natural growth cycle. Your hair will grow fuller, denser, longer and stronger!

With 14 International Medical Device Licenses and 7 FDA Clearances since 2007, HairMax® is the first home-use Laser Photo Therapy device that has been reviewed by the FDA and cleared for the treatment of Androgenetic Alopecia (pattern hair loss), caused by hormonal or hereditary factors in both males and females.

Remember, if you’re losing your hair, you’re in good company. Hair loss is a something that most men struggle with in their lives. Besides, hair doesn’t make the man. Whether you choose to treat your hair loss, disguise it with a new ‘do, or rock a shaved head, confidence is the best look of all!