Male pattern baldness, medically known as androgenic alopecia, is the most common type of hair loss experienced by men. The term 'pattern baldness' indicates a specific type of male hair loss – first hairline starts to recede from the crown, which is followed by disappearance of hair from the mid-anterior region of the scalp. This type of hair fall is triggered by androgenic hormones. An individual can suffer from it any time – be it in his twenties or fifties. But the condition is preventable with medicines such as Propecia finasteride, which, if used as prescribed, can in fact encourage hair regrowth.
What causes hair to fall off?
An androgenic hormone called dihydrotestosterone (DHT) is responsible for male pattern baldness. Actually the normal growth rate of hair is an inch in every couple of months or so. This rate continues for about 2-6 years, after which hair no longer grows and comes off. Each hair is rooted in a follicle, which contracts over time, slowing hair growth. Shrinking of follicles also makes hair thinner. The end result is a shrunk follicle without any hair rooted in it.
According to experts, when a man has male pattern baldness, his follicles become genetically sensitive to androgenic hormones. As a result of this, the follicles no longer respond to the hormones and hair starts to fall off. So to prevent the problem, it is important to use a medicine that can keep the follicles alive. Propecia has finasteride as its active ingredient, which is a synthetic anti-androgen. It reduces androgenic hormones and in doing so, prevents hair fall and even encourages new hair growth.
What does Propecia do to prevent male hair loss?
Manufactured by Merck and Co., Inc., Propecia is an FDA-approved prescription only medicine. It is basically a 5-alpha reductase inhibitor which can prevent the hair follicles from getting exposed to the DHT hormones. This makes sure the hair follicles stay alive and capable of producing new hair. But for the medicine to work effectively, you need to use it for about 3 months at a stretch. Only then you will notice any significant change on your scalp. But do not stop taking the medicine as soon as you see the positive results. You should complete the course to get long-term benefits of the treatment.
Is Propecia safe for all?
Propecia is only indicated for men. It does not work for women suffering from any kind of hair loss problem. Pregnant or expecting women shouldn't even handle the pill if its crushed or broken, as it may affect the foetus. Keep the drug away from children's reach.
Can men prevent pattern hair loss without medical assistance?
Studies have so far unearthed that mostly genetic factors cause androgenic alopecia or pattern hair loss. So it is not possible to prevent it without treatment. Similarly, do not get alarmed if you see a few stray hairs on your comb occasionally. All types of hair loss is not genetic and you can prevent non-genetic hair fall by making a few small adjustments in your hair care regime.
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