Hair Loss in Men: Causes & Treatment Options

Male Pattern Hair Loss (Androgenetic Alopecia) is the most common type of hair loss in men. This type of hair loss is strongly influenced by genetic and hormonal factors, particularly the hormone dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT affects hair follicles on the scalp, causing them to shrink over time. As a result, new hairs grow thinner, shorter, and lighter in color. Eventually, the affected follicles stop producing hair altogether.

Symptoms and Progression: The first signs of male pattern hair loss typically appear as a receding hairline at the temples, followed by thinning at the crown of the head. Over time, the bald spot on the crown expands, and the hairline continues to recede, creating the typical pattern of baldness. This process can begin as early as the 20s or 30s but progresses at different rates for each individual.

Genetic Factors: Hair loss is largely hereditary, meaning that men are likelier to lose their hair around the same age as their fathers or male relatives. If male pattern baldness runs in your family, you may notice hair loss following a similar pattern. Interestingly, the genes for male pattern baldness can also be passed down from the mother's side of the family.

Although hair loss is a natural part of the aging process for many men, it can still cause emotional discomfort. If hair loss impacts your confidence or well-being, it may be worth exploring the available treatment options.

Can Medical Conditions Cause Hair Loss?

Autoimmune Conditions

Autoimmune conditions such as lupus, Hashimoto’s hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid gland), Grave’s hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid gland), and rheumatoid arthritis can all cause hair loss. These conditions occur when the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its tissues, including hair follicles. In such cases, hair loss may be patchy or widespread, depending on the severity of the condition.

Alopecia Areata and Alopecia Universalis

Alopecia areata (patchy loss of hair) or alopecia universalis (total loss of hair) are autoimmune conditions where the body attacks its own hair follicles. These conditions are less common but can affect men at any age.

Nutritional Deficiencies

Iron deficiency can cause hair loss, with or without anemia. To rule it out as a cause, dermatologists recommend that your iron levels are very robust, not just “within the normal range.” Zinc deficiency may also contribute to hair loss, but it’s rare if you’re eating a healthy balanced diet and/or taking multivitamins – you only need a very small amount for the body to put it to good use.

In reality, the above medical conditions are much more common in women than in men. For men, the most common type is related to aging. Book an appointment with your doctor if you have reason to suspect the above conditions, or if you are suddenly losing hair, if you have bald patches or hair is falling away in clumps, or if your scalp is itchy or burning.

Minoxidil liquid or foam is a medication available to buy from pharmacies to help slow the progress of hair loss. It works by keeping hairs in the anagen (growth phase) of the hair cycle longer, thereby reducing the amount of hair follicles in the telogen (or shedding phase). The net result is that more hair is growing than being shed.

Minoxidil products have clinical evidence to show they work in most people, but they only work for as long as you keep using them – once you stop treatment, hair loss resumes. Manufacturers advise it can take 3 to 6 months to see any visible improvement. Users should bear in mind the expense of maintaining treatment.

Rogaine comes as a foam applied directly to the scalp, and there are products aimed at men and women in different concentrations.

Finasteride tablets are a treatment only for men and are available with a prescription. They reduce levels of dihydrotestosterone with the aim of slowing down hair loss and boosting hair growth. Again, the manufacturers advise a 3 to 6 months continuation until you may see results, and continuing medication is essential to any continued results. Some men may experience reduced sex drive and erectile problems with this treatment.

There are many vitamins or supplements that claim to promote hair growth. While good nutrition and circulation to the hair roots are important factors, the hormonal factor in androgenic hair loss is the most important. Key nutrients such as biotin, protein intake to build hair, iron, and other trace minerals may help in some cases.

For men who are not interested in or do not respond to medicated treatments, several non-medicated options are available to help manage hair loss.

Wigs and Hairpieces

Wigs, toupées, and hairpieces offer a non-invasive solution for covering bald or thinning areas of the scalp. Wigs can be made from synthetic materials or natural human hair, which is more expensive but often more realistic. While wigs are a medication-free solution, some men find them uncomfortable or impractical due to heat, irritation, or cost.

Camouflage Products

Camouflage products like hair fibers or sprays are temporary solutions that add thickness and density to thinning hair. These products are applied directly to the scalp or hair to mask balding areas, giving the appearance of fuller hair. While effective for everyday use, they only last until the next wash and must be reapplied regularly.

Hair Transplants

Hair transplantation is a surgical procedure that involves moving healthy hair follicles from one part of the scalp (typically the back or sides) to thinning or balding areas. This option can be costly and require multiple sessions, but it provides a permanent solution for some men. Hair transplants are not suitable for everyone, and success rates depend on the extent of hair loss and the quality of the donor area.

Lifestyle Changes and Supplements

While genetics and hormones play the most significant role in male pattern hair loss, specific lifestyle changes can help maintain overall hair health.

Diet and Nutrition

Eating a well-balanced diet is essential for maintaining healthy hair. Iron, zinc, and biotin are vital nutrients that support hair growth. Although nutritional deficiencies are less common in men, ensuring adequate intake of these nutrients can help prevent hair thinning caused by poor diet. Foods like spinach, nuts, eggs, and fish are rich in these essential nutrients. While a healthy diet can support hair health, it’s important to note that hormonal factors are usually the primary cause of male pattern baldness.

Stress Management

There is a known link between stress and hair loss, particularly in conditions like telogen effluvium, where stress pushes hair follicles into a resting phase, causing them to fall out prematurely. Managing stress through exercise, meditation, and relaxation techniques can help reduce the risk of stress-induced hair loss. Getting enough sleep and avoiding high-stress environments can also support overall hair health.

Supplements

A wide range of vitamins and supplements are marketed for hair growth, often containing ingredients like biotin, zinc, and vitamin E. While these may help if you have a deficiency, they are unlikely to significantly impact hormonal hair loss unless a specific nutritional imbalance exists. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.

Hair loss can have a significant emotional impact, affecting self-esteem and quality of life. If hair loss is causing distress, it’s essential to seek help from a healthcare professional. Doctors and dermatologists can assess the underlying cause of hair loss and recommend the most appropriate treatment options.

Persistent Hair Loss

If you experience sudden or patchy hair loss or if your hair is falling out in clumps, it’s essential to seek medical advice. This could indicate an underlying health condition such as alopecia areata or thyroid dysfunction.

Consult a Dermatologist

A dermatologist can help identify the cause of hair loss and offer tailored treatment plans based on individual needs. They can also rule out conditions like scalp infections or other skin disorders contributing to hair thinning. Additionally, they can provide guidance on lifestyle changes and treatments that best suit your specific hair loss concerns.