Hereditary Baldness Causes and Treatment
Hereditary Baldness: Causes and Treatment Hereditary hair loss is the most common type of hair loss in both men (Androgenetic Alopecia) and women (Female Pattern Hair Loss). It is caused by genetics and hormones, particularly the androgen hormone, dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which causes hair follicles to gradually shrink, thin, and shorten the hair growth cycle, eventually leading to hair loss. Main Causes Genetics - If there is a family history of hair loss, baldness is more likely. - Inherited genes make hair follicles more sensitive to the hormone DHT. Testosterone (DHT) - Testosterone is converted to DHT by the enzyme 5-alpha reductase. - DHT binds to hair follicles, causing them to gradually atrophy and hairs to become smaller. Age - As we age, the process of hair follicle atrophy becomes more pronounced. Characteristics of Hereditary Hair Loss Men: Hair loss occurs on both temples (M-shaped) and at the top of the head. Women: Hair loss is usually diffuse at the top of the head. H...