Hair thinning is very common. More than 60 million Americans suffer from this condition. Although most common among men, hair loss in women is also widely known. Statistics show, more than half of men over the age of 50 suffer from hair loss or baldness. Though the percentage of baldness in women is far smaller, the emotional effects it brings are great.
There are many treatments available today for baldness and hair loss. The first step is to consult a physician and have a complete medical examination conducted. This is the only way to reveal the existing cause for the problem and treat it properly. There are many causes for hair loss in men and women, some include genetics, illness, malnutrition and side effects from medications. Again, the only way to determine the cause in each individual is to consult your doctor.
The most common cause of baldness has been found to be genetics. Inherited DNA which is acquired from either parent plays a significant role in determining hair patterns. It is these genetics that dictate the succeptibility of follicles to DHT, a byproduct of testosterone in the body after it has been altered by the 5AR enzyme. Other factors, such as certain shampoos or certain foods have incorrectly been deemed responsible for contributing to hair loss. Although genetics is beyond the control of medical practitioners, effective treatments have been made available for hair loss and baldness. Of the various medications available for hair loss, two have recently been approved by the FDA. They are dutasteride and finasteride. Dutasteride, developed by Glaxo Smithkline, is the latest to be approved and is waiting to be released for the treatment of hair thinning. This drug was originally used as anti-antrigen for the treatment of prostrate enlargement. Finasteride was approved by the FDA in 1992 for the use of treating prostate enlargement, and then in 1997 for the treatment of male pattern hair thinning. Another common drug used for hair loss treatment among men and women is minixidil 2% solution. This is an over the counter drug that is applied directly to the scalp. This drug was originally used to treat blood pressure, however has been found effective in treating hair loss, especially on the crown of the head. Apart from medications, many other methods have been used as remedies to treat hair loss. Some are acupuncture, aromatherapy and even hair transplants. Hair restoration is best to be left to the experts. There is no miracle cure, therefore medical consultation is recommended.
