Navigation
[TITLE]

[MESSAGE]

[BUTTONS]

Popular questions...

Content

Can male pattern baldness be prevented?

As male pattern baldness is largely caused by genetic and hormonal factors, it's generally considered to be a natural process that can't be prevented. However, eating a balanced diet containing healthy levels of iron, vitamin B12 and folic acid may help to promote steady growth of remaining hair. Similarly, avoiding harsh styling products or vigorous brushing is also usually recommended.

FAQ Frequently asked questions

What is male pattern baldness?

Male pattern baldness is a common type of hair loss that affects at least half of all men at some point. It's often thought to be passed down from mothers to sons. However, research shows that male pattern baldness is actually inherited from both sides of the …

What are the symptoms of male pattern baldness?

As the name suggests, male pattern baldness occurs in a particular pattern. It usually starts with the hair receding around the temples, followed by general thinning and balding on top of the scalp. In many cases, hair remains at the sides …

What causes male pattern baldness?

Male pattern baldness is influenced by genes and the male sex hormones, also known as androgens. More specifically, dihydrotestosterone (DHT) affects individual follicles, causing the hairs inside them to become thinner and grow for a shorter period.

Who gets male pattern baldness?

Male pattern baldness affects at least half of all men at some point. It's more likely with increasing age or if one or both parents also experience pattern hair loss. However, some people also just naturally have hair follicles that are more sensitive to …

Is male pattern baldness inherited from the mother's side?

Historically, male pattern baldness was often thought to be passed down from mothers to sons. However, research now indicates that it's most likely inherited from both sides of the family.

How is male pattern baldness diagnosed?

Your doctor will most likely diagnose male pattern baldness by looking at your scalp and asking questions about your family history and rate of hair loss. A blood test may also be done to confirm or rule out an underlying medical condition, such as …

How is male pattern baldness treated?

Treatment options for male pattern baldness include camouflage techniques, medications and hair transplant surgery. However, in most cases hair loss is permanent. Medications tend to slow the progress of hair loss, rather than produce new hair growth.

What is hair transplant surgery?

During hair transplantation, a doctor removes 'donor grafts' of hair from the back and sides of the scalp for relocation to bald areas. Each graft contains one or more hairs still attached to a small patch of skin. Surgery can take up to several hours and …

What is the outlook for pattern baldness?

Pattern baldness is usually permanent, but it doesn't cause any other physical symptoms, apart from hair loss. Treatment results vary from person to person depending on the option chosen and amount of hair remaining. Generally though, medications …

Related topics

Diseases & conditions

Alopecia (hair loss)

Alopecia, or hair loss, is characterised by a noticeable shedding, thinning or breaking of the hair. There can be numerous causes such as genetics, chemotherapy, stress or an underlying medical condition. It can be a sensitive issue for many. Fortunately, there are numerous treatment options available if needed.…
Diseases & conditions

Female pattern hair loss

Female pattern hair loss affects nearly all women to some degree. It is usually experienced as a thinning around the line where the hair parts, occurring at the onset of menopause. As female pattern hair loss is largely caused by genetic and hormonal factors, it is generally considered to be a normal, natural part of ageing.…
Diseases & conditions

Becoming a father

Becoming a father isn't just about having children or just being there for them. Fatherhood means taking responsibility for the children in your life. It means providing for your child, protecting them, being a positive role model and teaching your child about the world around them.…
Diseases & conditions

Prostate cancer

Prostate cancer is the name for cancers that form in the prostate gland, which is part of the male reproductive system. Abnormal cells can form a tumour in the prostate gland and spread throughout the body, commonly to the bones.…
Diseases & conditions

Benign prostatic hyperplasia

Benign prostatic hyperplasia is an enlargement of the prostate gland, which is common in older men. It can lead to problems with urination, however it can be managed through lifestyle changes, medications and/or surgery.…
Diseases & conditions

Premature ejaculation

Premature ejaculation affects most sexually active men at some point in their lives. It occurs when men are unable to control the timing of ejaculation and it happens sooner than anticipated. This can cause distress to both the affected man and his partner. There are numerous treatments available if it is ongoing.…

About this article

Author: Lauren Donley BSc (Hons)
First answered: 06 Nov 2014
Last reviewed: 19 May 2018
Rating: 4.6 out of 5
Votes: 858 (Click smiley face below to rate)
Category: Alopecia (hair loss)

×

Content goes in here.