Hair Fall in Men: Causes and Solutions

There are many reasons why hair loss in men can occur. In this blog, we will look at some of the common causes and solutions.

Understanding Hair Fall in Men

Male androgenetic alopecia is the most common cause of hair loss in men. The hair loss is progressive. Terminal hairs are gradually converted into vellus hairs in a highly predictable fashion, which depletes the scalp and causes baldness.

Common Causes of Male Hair Loss

1. The most prevalent cause of hair loss is a hereditary disorder that develops with age. This disorder is known as androgenic alopecia, male-pattern baldness, and female-pattern baldness.

2. Hormonal changes caused by pregnancy, childbirth, menopause, and thyroid disorders can all result in permanent or temporary hair loss.

3. Certain medications, including those used to treat cancer, arthritis, depression, heart disease, gout, and high blood pressure, can cause hair loss as a side effect.

4. Many people notice hair thinning for several months following a physical or mental trauma. 

5. Excessive hairstyling or hairstyles that pull your hair tight, such as pigtails or cornrows.

Genetics and Male Pattern Baldness

Male pattern baldness is generally inherited, which males obtain from their mothers. However, it is not defined by a single gene; several genes contribute to the risk. This complicates the inheritance pattern and makes it less predictable.

The androgen receptor gene is the most important genetic component involved. Androgens, including dihydrotestosterone (DHT), play an important role in hair loss. Men with a genetic predisposition to have more androgen receptors in their hair follicles may be more vulnerable to the effects of DHT, resulting in hair thinning and loss.

If you have a family history of baldness, you are more likely to develop it as well. However, male pattern baldness can occur without a strong family history, as genetics can be complex and incorporate several factors.

Hormonal Changes

• Dihydrotestosterone (DHT), is a testosterone derivative, the primary cause of male pattern baldness. It attaches to androgen receptors in hair follicles, causing them to shrivel and stop generating hair.

• Testosterone does not directly induce hair loss; rather, it is a precursor to DHT. Higher amounts of testosterone can cause an increase in DHT.

• Estrogen, which is more common in women, can protect hair follicles. Lower estrogen levels, as observed during menopause, can cause greater hair loss.

• Thyroid hormones control metabolism and can influence hair growth. Both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism can cause hair loss.

• Cortisol is a stress hormone. Chronic stress can cause high cortisol levels, which can contribute to hair loss.

Lifestyle and Stress

• The lack of key minerals such as iron, zinc, biotin, and vitamins A, C, D, and E can cause hair loss. It maintains healthy hair and requires a well-balanced diet that is rich in protein and healthy fats. 

• Overuse of strong shampoos, conditioners, and styling chemicals can harm hair and cause breakage. Choose mild, sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners. The frequent use of heat-styling appliances such as blow dryers, curling irons, and straighteners can cause hair to weaken. Use heat protectants and keep heat style to a minimum.

• Regular physical activity boosts blood circulation, which increases nutrition delivery to hair follicles and promotes healthy hair growth.

Identifying Early Signs of Hair Fall

The symptoms of baldness can also vary from person to person. Some people may have hair loss around the temples. This means that not every person suffering from hair loss will show all the symptoms of baldness.

Effective Solutions for Hair Fall in Men

• Minoxidil: An over-the-counter topical medication that promotes hair growth by boosting blood flow to the follicles. It is applied straight to the scalp twice a day. It can help regrow hair and decrease hair loss.

• Finasteride: Oral medication that reduces levels of DHT, a hormone linked to hair loss. It is taken once a day and may reduce hair loss and promote hair regrowth.

• Dutasteride: Similar to finasteride, but blocks a broader set of enzymes that convert testosterone to DHT. It is more effective than finasteride in certain situations, but it may also have more negative effects.

Medical Treatments

Medical treatments may be beneficial for hair loss in men. The most commonly used treatments are minoxidil, finasteride, dutasteride, platelet-rich plasma therapy, low-level laser therapy, and hair growth shampoos and topical treatments.

Minoxidil and Finasteride

• Minoxidil: It is a vasodilator that improves blood flow to hair follicles, promoting hair growth. It is applied straight to the scalp twice daily. Some report more hair loss at first, which is usually an indication that the treatment is effective. Continuous use is required to sustain the outcomes. Stopping treatment can cause the loss of newly growing hair.

• Finasteride: Finasteride inhibits 5-alpha reductase, an enzyme that transforms testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT). Lowering DHT levels can prevent hair follicle shrinkage and slow down hair loss. It may take several months (4–6) to reap the benefit. It may help decrease or stop hair loss and encourage hair regeneration. 

Hair Transplants

The main features of hair transplant techniques are:

• Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE): Individual hair follicles are taken from a donor location (usually the back or sides of the head) and transplanted into thinning or balding areas. Scarring is minimal, recuperation is faster, and the result is more natural-looking. Suitable for people who prefer shorter hairstyles.

• Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT): A strip of scalp containing hair follicles is removed from the donor area, then dissected and transplanted into the balding areas. It can harvest a greater number of follicles in a single session, which may be advantageous in cases of severe hair loss.

PRP Therapy

Platelet-rich plasma therapy supports healing, regeneration, and growth. It involves three steps such as extracting blood, processing it, and injecting it directly into the affected area. The study discovered that PRP can boost hair growth and thickness while also protecting hair follicles from early shedding. In another state, PRP may help increase hair thickness and density.

Natural Remedies

• Essential Oils: Rosemary oil promotes hair growth and circulation to the scalp. Dilute with a carrier oil, such as coconut oil, and massage. Peppermint oil can enhance blood circulation and encourage hair development. Apply it to the scalp after diluting it with a carrier oil.

• Herbal Treatments: Saw palmetto is commonly used as a supplement to prevent DHT, a hormone associated with hair loss. Before beginning any new supplement, consult with your healthcare provider or dermatologists. Nettle root is used to reduce DHT and promote hair growth.

• Dietary Adjustments: Incorporate foods high in vital vitamins and minerals, such as biotin from eggs, almonds, and seeds. Iron is present in lean meats, spinach, and legumes. Omega-3 fatty acids are present in fatty fish, flaxseed, and walnuts. Vitamin D is found in fatty fish, fortified foods, and in sunlight. Drink plenty of water to keep your hair and scalp moisturized.

• Scalp Massage: Regular scalp massage can enhance blood circulation and encourage hair growth. Use your fingertips to gently massage the scalp in circular strokes for a few minutes per day.

• Aloe Vera Gel: It can be applied straight to the scalp. It may help soothe irritation, reduce dandruff, and condition hair. Apply fresh aloe vera gel, leave for 30 minutes, and rinse.

• Onion Juice: It has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, which could stimulate hair follicles and hair health. Extract onion juice, apply it to your scalp for 15–30 minutes, and then wash your hair with a gentle shampoo.

• Fenugreek Seeds: Fenugreek seeds are claimed to promote hair development and decrease dandruff. Soak fenugreek seeds overnight, then crush them into a paste, apply to the scalp, and leave on for 30 minutes before rinsing.
• Green Tea: Green tea contains antioxidants, which may help with hair growth. Brew green tea, cool, and rinse.
• Avoiding Harsh Chemicals: Use mild, sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners. Avoid overuse of heat styling equipment and harsh chemical treatments.
• Stress Management: Include stress-relieving activities like exercise, meditation, yoga, and hobbies. Reducing stress can improve hair health.

Essential Oils

Some popular essential oils for hair care, their work, and uses are given below:

• Rosemary oil promotes circulation to the scalp, which may stimulate hair follicles and support hair growth. It is also believed to improve the health of the hair. Dilute rosemary oil (a few drops), massage, leave for 30 minutes and rinse.

• Peppermint oil is known for its cooling effect and ability to increase blood flow to the scalp, which can invigorate hair follicles and support hair growth. Peppermint oil (a few drops), apply, leave for 15-20 minutes, and rinse. 

• Lavender oil has calming properties and may help improve hair growth. It can also reduce stress, which is beneficial for overall hair health. Mix lavender oil (a few drops), apply, leave for 30 minutes, and wash it.

• Tree oil possesses antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce dandruff and soothe the scalp. Dilute tea tree oil (a few drops), massage, and leave for 10-15 minutes before shampooing.

• Cedarwood oil may help balance oil production and promote hair growth by stimulating the scalp and improving circulation. Mix Cedarwood oil (a few drops), apply, leave for 30 minutes, and wash your hair.

• Chamomile oil has soothing and anti-inflammatory properties. It can help calm the scalp and support healthy hair growth. Dilute chamomile hair oil (a few drops), massage, leave for 30 minutes, and rinse. 

Herbal Treatments

• Saw palmetto is believed to block the enzyme 5-alpha reductase, which converts testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone linked to hair loss.

• Ginseng stimulates hair follicles and improves blood circulation to the scalp, which promotes hair growth.

• Nettle root may help inhibit DHT and support hair growth, and it also has anti-inflammatory properties.

• Horsetail contains antioxidants, which help strengthen hair and scalp health.

• Amla is rich in vitamin C, which helps improve scalp health and strengthen hair.

• Fenugreek seeds contain proteins and nicotinic acid, which may help strengthen hair and reduce dandruff.

• Bhringraj promotes hair growth and prevents premature graying.

• Licorice root has soothing properties and helps to reduce scalp irritation.

• Rosemary stimulates hair follicles, improves circulation to the scalp, and supports hair growth.

Nutrient-Rich Diet

A nutrient-rich diet is essential to maintaining healthy hair and its development. Incorporating specific vitamins, minerals, and nutrients into your diet can help prevent hair loss and improve hair health. Protein, biotin, iron, vitamins A, D, and E, omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, and folate are some common examples of nutrient-rich diets.

Lifestyle Changes to Prevent Hair Fall

Certain lifestyle changes can help prevent hair loss and promote hair health. This includes controlling stress, maintaining a healthy diet, avoiding excessive heat and chemical treatments, gentle hair care, avoiding environmental damage, having tight hairstyles, getting proper sleep, not smoking, not consuming alcohol, and consulting a healthcare provider.