Hereditary Baldness: Causes and Treatment

Hereditary Baldness: Causes and Treatment

Hereditary hair loss is the most common type of hair loss in both men (Androgenetic Alopecia) and women (Female Pattern Hair Loss). It is caused by genetics and hormones, particularly the androgen hormone dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which causes hair follicles to gradually shrink, thin, and shorten the hair growth cycle, eventually leading to hair loss.

Main Causes

Genetics

– If there is a family history of hair loss, baldness is more likely.

– Inherited genes make hair follicles more sensitive to the hormone DHT.

Testosterone (DHT)

– Testosterone is converted to DHT by the enzyme 5-alpha reductase.

– DHT binds to hair follicles, causing them to gradually atrophy and hairs to become smaller.

Age

– As we age, the process of hair follicle atrophy becomes more pronounced.

Characteristics of Hereditary Hair Loss

Men: Hair loss occurs on both temples (M-shaped) and at the top of the head.

Women: Hair loss is usually diffuse at the top of the head. However, the frontal hairline often remains.

Treatment Options

Treatment can be divided into reduce hair loss and restoring / increasing hair density.

1. Medication

Minoxidil (oral/serum/foam)

✔️ Dilates blood vessels, increasing blood flow to hair roots, resulting in thicker hair.

Finasteride/Dutasteride (oral medications for men)

✔️ Inhibits the enzyme 5-alpha reductase, reducing DHT production, thus reducing hair loss.

Spironolactone (in some cases in women)

2. Complementary Medical Treatments

– Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP): Injections of concentrated platelets and growth factor to stimulate hair roots.

– LLLT (Low-Level Laser Therapy): Low-energy lasers to stimulate hair growth.

3. Hair Transplant Surgery

– The only method for increasing hair growth.

– Popular techniques: FUE (one hair follicle per section) and FUT (removing the top of the scalp to separate the hair follicles).

– Suitable for those with moderate to severe hair loss or noticeable thinning.

4. Supplementary Care

– Maintain a healthy body, refraining from smoking.

– Eat a well-balanced diet, focusing on protein, iron, and zinc.

– Reduce stress and get enough rest.

Summary

Hereditary baldness is caused by genetics and the hormone DHT, which directly affects the hair follicles. Treatment should be started early to slow hair loss. If the hair follicles are already severely thinning, hair transplantation is the most appropriate solution to increase hair density in that area.

 

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Dr. Paphon Asawaworarit (Dr. Ming)
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