There can be many reasons why men tend to have hair loss. Some develop it over time, and others have had it at a younger age, but why does this usually happen to men? In this article, we’ve listed the most common reasons for hair loss for men.
Stress
Many people experience general thinning of hair months after a physical or emotional shock. This type of hair loss is temporary but can last several months if the person is extremely affected.
Immune system
If you lose your hair suddenly, leaving round bald patches about a quarter of the size in various places on your head, you may have a genetic condition called alopecia areata. It usually begins in childhood. You’re more likely to have it if a close family member has it. Your immune system attacks your hair follicles, causing small, thin strands of hair to fall out. There is no pain or disease, and it is not contagious. Your hair may grow back, but it may also fall out again.
Medical conditions
Temporary hair loss can be a sign of a medical problem, such as anemia or a thyroid problem. A diet low in protein and iron can also lead to thinning hair. Iron supplements and infusions can help correct low iron levels. To avoid iron infusion side effects, it’s important to get treatments from a licensed medical practitioner. Medical conditions include alopecia areata, which is linked to the immune system and can lead to patchy hair loss, scalp infections such as ringworm, and a hair-pulling disorder called trichotillomania.
Genetics
Male pattern baldness is triggered by genes you get from your parents. Depending on your family history, male pattern baldness can start as early as your teens. Not only will your hair become thinner, but it will become softer, thinner, and shorter. The exact mode of inheritance is unknown, but it does tend to run in families. Therefore, if you have a close relative who is bald, you are also more likely to develop baldness.
Medications
Hair loss can be a side effect of certain medications, such as those used to treat cancer, arthritis, depression, heart disease, gout, and high blood pressure.
How to prevent hair loss for men?
- Protect your hair from sunlight and other sources of UV rays.
- Stop or avoid smoking. Research has shown a link between smoking and male pattern baldness.
- Treat your hair gently. If you have long hair, use a detangler to avoid pulling while brushing and combing, especially when your hair is wet. A wide-toothed comb can also help prevent hair pulling.
- Avoid using hair tools that use extreme heat such as hot rollers and curling irons. This could be a cause of hair fall.
- Reduce or completely avoid hair products that consist of strong chemicals such as bleach, hair dye, hot oil treatments, and permanent treatments.
- Use hairstyles that use rubber bands, bobby pins, and braids to limit tension in your hair.
- If you are undergoing chemotherapy, ask your doctor about cooling caps. This cap can reduce the risk of hair loss during chemotherapy.
- Talk to your doctor about medications and supplements you’re currently taking that might be a possible cause of thinning hair.
