Causes of baldness in men

oorzaken van kaalheid bij mannen

You might notice it while showering, at the Combs, or on your pillow: more and more hairs are falling out. For many men, this is a confronting experience. Hair Loss is a common problem that affects about 60% of men. But what actually causes this and can you do anything about it?

 

Why do men lose their Hair?

Hair Loss in men has various causes. The most common is hereditary baldness, also known as androgenetic alopecia. But there are more factors that play a role:

1. Genetic predisposition

Your DNA largely determines whether you will go bald. Take a look at your father, grandfathers, or uncles - their hair pattern often gives a prediction of your future. Hereditary baldness usually begins at the temples and crown, after which these areas slowly merge.

A common myth is that baldness is only passed down through your mother. This is not entirely true - genes from both parents play a role, although the genes from your mother's side are often more dominant.

2. Hormones

Testosterone, the male hormone, is converted in your Body into dihydrotestosterone (DHT). In men who are sensitive to Hair Loss, DHT causes hair follicles to shrink. As a result, the hairs become thinner until they eventually disappear completely.

This explains why some men go bald at a young age, while others keep a full head of hair into old age - it is about your sensitivity to DHT, not the amount of testosterone.

3. Stress and lifestyle

Your Body responds to stress by producing various hormones that can disrupt your hair growth. This type of Hair Loss, called telogen effluvium, is usually temporary. When the stress period is over, hair growth often recovers on its own.

Your lifestyle also plays a role:

  1. Poor diet with few essential nutrients
  2. Smoking (reduces blood flow to your scalp)
  3. Excessive alcohol consumption
  4. Too little sleep
  5. Crash diets

4. Medical causes

Sometimes a medical problem is the basis of Hair Loss:

  1. Thyroid problems
  2. Iron deficiency or anemia
  3. Autoimmune diseases such as alopecia areata
  4. Skin conditions such as psoriasis or fungal infections
  5. Side effects of medications (e.g., blood thinners or antidepressants)

 

How do you recognize different types of Hair Loss?

Hereditary baldness (androgenetic alopecia)

This usually begins with a receding hairline at the temples and/or thinning Hair on the crown. It progresses gradually and often follows a predictable pattern.

Alopecia areata

This involves the sudden appearance of round bald patches. It is caused by an autoimmune reaction where your Body attacks your own hair follicles.

Telogen effluvium

In this form of Hair Loss, you lose Hair across your entire scalp. The Hair falls out in larger amounts than normal, often after a stressful event, illness, or due to medication use.

Cicatricial alopecia

This involves inflammation of the scalp and the formation of scars that permanently damage the hair follicles. This can be caused by skin diseases, burns, or certain infections.

 

What can you do about Hair Loss?

Medical treatments

  1. Minoxidil (Rogaine) This remedy improves the blood supply to your scalp and stimulates the hair follicles. It is available as a lotion or foam and works for about 60% of men. Disadvantage: once you stop, the effect disappears.
  2. Finasteride (Propecia) This pill inhibits the conversion of testosterone to DHT, which slows down or sometimes even stops Hair Loss. It works especially well for early baldness on the crown. Note: side effects such as reduced libido may occur.
  3. Hair Transplant In this surgical procedure, hair follicles from densely populated areas (usually the back of your head) are moved to bald spots. The technique has greatly improved in recent years, resulting in more natural results.

Natural Approach

  1. Nutrition and Supplements Ensure sufficient:
    • Iron (Red meat, spinach)
    • Zinc (oysters, pumpkin seeds)
    • Biotin (eggs, nuts)
    • Vitamin D (sunlight, fatty fish)
    • Omega-3 fatty acids (fatty fish, flaxseed)
  2. Scalp Massage Daily massage stimulates blood circulation in your scalp, which can promote hair growth. Spend 5-10 minutes a day on this.
  3. Stress Reduction Try to reduce stress by exercising regularly, getting enough sleep, and practicing relaxation techniques such as meditation or yoga.
  4. Products against Hair Loss Choose specialized products against Hair Loss that stimulate hair growth and strengthen the hair roots, such as Hair Growth Serums and special Shampoos against Hair Loss.

 

Accept or Camouflage?

Not every man wants or can treat his Hair Loss. Fortunately, there are good alternatives nowadays:

  1. The Short Hairstyle A very short hairstyle or completely shaved head can look stylish and requires little maintenance.
  2. Hairpieces and Wigs Modern hairpieces are hardly distinguishable from real Hair and offer a non-permanent solution.
  3. Hair Fibers These microscopic fibers attach to your existing Hair, making it appear fuller. Hair Fibers are ideal for men with thinning Hair.
  4. Micropigmentation In this technique, small pigment dots are tattooed on your scalp, creating the illusion of a very short hairstyle.

 

When to See a Doctor?

Consult a doctor if:

  1. You suddenly lose a lot of Hair
  2. You notice bald spots, redness, or irritation on your scalp
  3. Your Hair Loss is accompanied by other symptoms such as fatigue or weight loss
  4. You are younger than 25 and already experiencing significant Hair Loss

 

Finally

Hair Loss is an emotionally charged topic for many men. Remember that you are not alone - millions of men experience the same. Whether you choose treatment or acceptance, the most important thing is that you feel good about your choice. A healthy lifestyle, good nutrition, and stress reduction are beneficial anyway, not only for your Hair but for your entire Body.

And don't forget: confidence is ultimately more attractive than a full head of hair.