What are the main causes of male hair loss?
The most common cause is androgenic alopecia. This is an inherited genetic condition, also known as male pattern hair loss, and it gets worse with age. Another form of hair loss, which tends not to be permanent, is alopecia areata, which is spot hair loss in specific areas. Telogen effluvium is a temporary form of hair loss that occurs when the normal hair growth cycle is interrupted and is seen in all age ranges.
Can lifestyle factors contribute to hair loss?
They can have a huge impact. Telogen effluvium can be caused by stress, or low iron and vitamin levels. Alopecia areata, although genetic, can be exacerbated by stress and recreational drug use. If you have long hair and use a tight band or clip, that can place undue traction on the hair follicles and contribute to hair loss. To slow the rate of loss, reduce stress and don’t overuse products such as wax and gel. Diet can also have a great impact. Ensure you are not deficient in vitamins, particularly biotin.
What advances in treatment have you seen recently?
One new non-surgical treatment is platelet-rich fibrin. This involves injecting all the beneficial parts of growth factors from your plasma and red blood cells into your hair to stimulate growth and prevent further hair loss. This is an upgrade on previous treatments which were termed platelet-rich plasma – don’t confuse the two, because the results we are achieving with fibrin are phenomenal in comparison. Studies are now showing that platelet-rich fibrin not only thickens existing hair, it actually grows new hair on the scalp.
What’s on the horizon for hair loss treatment?
The hot topic is hair cloning. We are certainly close now. Currently in hair transplant surgery there is a limit to the amount of hair one can transplant. With hair cloning we will not need to worry about this. When it does arrive there will still be a need for surgery but patients will finally not be limited in their expectations.
For more on Dr Munir Somji visit drmedispa.com
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Style Tips To Hide Hair Loss
Style out these common hair horrors with tips from Nanogen ambassador and top hair stylist Matthew Curtis.
The Problem: Thinning Hair
Do keep hair short and textured “This will create more depth and help prevent too much scalp from showing. Opt for styling products with a matt finish, rather than wet-look gels, because they will add bulk to the hair for a fuller appearance.”
Don’t grow your hair too long “This will have the effect of pulling hair flat and give it a limp and lifeless appearance. Depending on the style in which you wear your hair, longer lengths can also evoke the look of a combover, which both ages you and draws attention to thin patches.”
The Problem: Bald Patch
Do go shorter all over “This will lessen the contrast between a bald crown and the thicker hair that grows around it. Once your hair is cut neatly in this way, you can use certain styling products to add more depth and texture at the crown, such as Nanogen Keratin Thickening Hair Fibres which are made from 100% natural keratin, the same protein our hair is made from.”
Don’t wait too long between haircuts “Longer hair will emphasise the appearance of a bald patch. A uniform length all over will keep things looking their best, so avoid styles that combine longer and shorter hair.”
The Problem: Receding Hair
Do book in for regular cuts “The tendency is to sweep hair to the side as it grows out, which can draw attention to a receding hairline. Get into the habit of booking your next hair appointment when paying after a haircut. Again, avoid the floppy look – matt, stiff styling products will help keep hair structured and where it should be around your face.”
Don’t go for super-short styles “This can really highlight a receding hairline. A regular length is best for receding hair.”
