Types of Hair Loss in Men: Causes, Symptoms and Treatments.

Key Variants of male hair baldness:

Androgenic Alopecia (Male Pattern Baldness):

• The most common form of hair loss in men is called androgenic alopecia, which is often referred to as male pattern baldness. This condition is largely genetic and is influenced by hormones like dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which can shrink hair follicles over time.

Symptoms:

• Gradual hair thinning, typically starting from the temples and crown.

• Formation of an “M” shape as the hairline recedes in male pattern baldness.

Treatment Options:

Minoxidil (topical): 

• It is applied directly to the scalp and helps to stimulate hair growth and slow down hair loss. It’s a widely recommended solution that’s easy to use at home.

Finasteride (oral): 

• This medication is taken as a daily pill and works by blocking a hormone responsible for male pattern baldness, effectively reducing hair loss for many men. A doctor’s prescription is required for both purchase and use.

Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT):

• This non-invasive treatment uses low-level lasers to stimulate hair follicles, encouraging new hair growth. It’s a safe option suitable for regular use, either at a clinic or with at-home devices.

Hair Transplant: 

• For those facing advanced hair loss where significant receding has occurred, a hair transplant serves as an effective long-term solution. At this stage, healthy hair follicles are moved to areas with thinning or no hair, providing a fuller, more natural appearance. Derma Q offers top-tier hair transplant services, utilising advanced techniques such as D-FUE, FUT, and DHI. These methods are tailored to each patient’s unique needs and are designed to achieve natural-looking, lasting results, especially when hair restoration is needed in more extreme cases.

•  DermaQ led by Dr. Soniya Pandhankar, a highly skilled,aims BHU Aims with more than 10 years of experience and delivers personalised and effective care. She is recognised as one of the best in her field and always ensures that every procedure is performed with the highest level of expertise, providing patients with reliable, lasting results.

Alopecia Areata:

Alopecia Areata:

• Alopecia areata is an autoimmune disorder that causes hair to fall out in small patches. In some cases, it may lead to complete baldness.

Symptoms:

• Sudden patchy hair loss on the scalp and possible hair loss in other areas like eyebrows and beard.

Treatment Options:

Immunotherapy:

• Immunotherapy involves applying a topical agent, such as diphencyprone (DPCP), to the scalp. The purpose is to create a mild allergic reaction that stimulates hair follicles and encourages new hair growth. 
• This method is generally considered for those with more extensive hair loss and is often done under medical supervision.

Corticosteroid Injections:

• These injections are used to treat specific patches of hair loss by reducing inflammation in the affected areas. 
• Corticosteroids are injected directly into the bald patches, which can help suppress the immune system’s attack on hair follicles and promote regrowth. This method is commonly used for conditions like alopecia areata. A doctor's prescription and consultation are required.

Oral and Topical Medications (JAK Inhibitors):

• JAK inhibitors are a newer class of drugs being researched to treat hair loss. They can be taken orally or applied topically  and work by blocking certain enzymes that contribute to inflammation and immune responses, which may be affecting hair growth. While still under study, JAK inhibitors show promise in treating severe types of hair loss, particularly those related to autoimmune issues.

Telogen Effluvium:

• Telogen effluvium is usually a temporary condition triggered by physical or emotional stress. Hair follicles prematurely enter the resting phase, causing noticeable thinning.

Symptoms:

• Sudden shedding of hair, often a few months after a triggering event like surgery, severe illness, or major life changes.

Treatment Options:

• Reducing stress through mindfulness, healthy lifestyle changes and self-care.

• Minoxidil promotes faster hair regrowth, while multivitamins help in address nutrient deficiencies.

Traction Alopecia. 

This form of hair loss, including diffuse hair loss, is often caused by constant pulling or tension on the hair from tight hairstyles like ponytails or braids.

  Symptoms:

Thinning or Bald Spots:

• Hair thinning or the appearance of bald patches often develops in areas where hair is frequently pulled or styled tightly, such as along the hairline, temples, or crown. This can be especially noticeable in individuals who regularly wear tight hairstyles like ponytails, braids, or buns, leading to a condition known as traction alopecia.

Scalp Soreness or Itching:

• The scalp may feel sore, tender, or itchy, especially in areas where hair has been under constant tension.
•  This discomfort can be an early sign of irritation or inflammation in the hair follicles, which may eventually contribute to hair loss if not addressed. The soreness or itching often occurs before visible hair loss, serving as a warning to ease tension on the scalp.

Treatment Options:

Changing Hairstyles:

• Avoid tight hairstyles like ponytails, braids, or buns, as these can put stress on the hair and scalp, leading to hair breakage and loss. Always opt for looser styles to reduce strain and give your hair a chance to rest and recover.

Topical Treatments:

• Applying minoxidil directly to the scalp can help stimulate hair regrowth, especially in mild cases of hair loss. It’s an easy, at-home option that can support thicker hair over time when used consistently.

Hair Growth Serums:

• Certain serums containing peptides and plant extracts may help nourish the scalp and strengthen hair, supporting hair recovery and growth.These serums are typically applied daily and can complement other treatments to improve overall hair health.

Scarring Alopecia

It is also known as cicatricial alopecia, this rare condition is caused by inflammation that damages hair follicles, resulting in scar tissue.

Symptoms:

Patchy Hair Loss with Visible Scalp Scarring:

• This condition often presents as distinct bald patches on the scalp, which may reveal the skin underneath. 
• Over time, these areas can develop scars as hair follicles become damaged or destroyed. The patchiness can vary in size and may appear suddenly, making it a noticeable change for those affected.

Redness, Itching, and Pain:

• In some cases, the bald patches may be accompanied by inflammation, causing the scalp to appear red. 
• This redness is often a sign of irritation or an underlying condition affecting the hair follicles. 
• Additionally, individuals may experience itching or discomfort in the affected areas, which can range from mild to severe. This pain or itchiness can be frustrating and may indicate that the scalp is sensitive or reacting to an underlying issue.

Treatment Options:

Anti-Inflammatory Medications:

• These powerful anti-inflammatory medications are often prescribed to help reduce swelling and inflammation in the scalp. 
• They can be administered through topical creams, oral tablets, or injections directly into the affected areas. By calming the immune response, corticosteroids can help alleviate symptoms like redness and soreness while promoting hair regrowth.

Antibiotics: 

• In cases where there is a risk of infection or if the inflammation is caused by bacterial issues, antibiotics may be prescribed. These medications help clear infections that could exacerbate hair loss and inflammation. They work by eliminating harmful bacteria, allowing the scalp to heal and create a healthier environment for hair follicles to thrive.

Hair Transplants:

• This procedure involves relocating healthy hair follicles from a donor site—usually the back or sides of the head—to areas with significant thinning or baldness. At Derma Q Clinic, our board-certified surgeons specialise in advanced hair transplant techniques, ensuring you achieve the best results. The experienced team at Derma Q combines their expertise with state-of-the-art technology to provide natural-looking outcomes tailored to each patient’s needs. With a focus on personalised care, Derma Q aims to restore not only your hair but also your confidence.

• For individuals experiencing severe or persistent hair loss that doesn’t respond to medical treatments, hair transplant surgery may be the ideal solution.

 Understanding the different types of male hair loss is essential for effectively managing and treating hair thinning and baldness. Conditions like male pattern baldness, marked by gradual thinning and a receding hairline, along with others such as alopecia areata and traction alopecia, each require unique treatment approaches tailored to individual needs. From medications and topical treatments to advanced options like hair transplants, timely intervention can make a significant difference in outcomes.

For those seeking a lasting solution, hair transplants offer a transformative path to natural-looking results and renewed confidence. At Derma Q, we are dedicated to excellence in hair restoration. Our team, trained at prestigious institutions like BHU and AIIMS, is committed to delivering highly personalised care for remarkable results. Dr. Soniya Pendhankar, a gold medalist in dermatology and certified trichologist from BHU, leads our clinic with over a decade of experience. Formerly a senior resident at AIIMS New Delhi, she embodies the expertise and dedication that define our high standards.

If you’re experiencing hair loss or are unsure about the type of baldness affecting you, we encourage you to consult with our experts at Derma Q. Together, we’ll create a tailored treatment plan to address your concerns, helping you regain both your hair and your confidence. Don’t wait—take the first step towards restoring your hair today!