Genetic Hair Loss In Men-neograft hair clinic

Male Pattern Baldness: Understanding Genetic Contributions and the Role of DHT

Introduction

Male Pattern Baldness, also known as androgenetic alopecia, is the most common cause of hair loss in men. This condition affects nearly half of all men by the age of 50 and is characterized by a receding hairline, followed by the thinning of the hair on the crown and temples. The condition is primarily driven by a complex interplay of genetic factors and hormonal changes in the body, particularly involving Dihydrotestosterone (DHT).

Genetic Contributions to Male Pattern Baldness

Scientists have long known that male pattern baldness is a heritable trait, and many believe that it can be passed down from both parents. The relationship between baldness and genetics is often overly simplified to an old wives’ tale: that a man will inherit his mother’s father’s hair. But in reality, the situation is far more complex, and genes from both parents play a role.

Research has identified several genes associated with male pattern baldness, with the Androgen Receptor (AR) gene being the most influential. The AR gene is located on the X chromosome, which men inherit from their mothers. This gene plays a crucial role in enabling the body to respond to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone we will discuss in more detail later.

However, more recent research suggests that other genes, not on the X chromosome, contribute to male pattern baldness, and these can be inherited from either parent. These discoveries emphasize that male pattern baldness is a polygenic trait, meaning it’s influenced by multiple genes.

Understanding Testosterone, DHT, and Their Role in Baldness

Testosterone and DHT are two key hormones implicated in the process of hair loss. DHT is a derivative of testosterone, produced when the enzyme 5-alpha reductase converts testosterone into DHT.

While testosterone is a hormone that men (and women) need for good health, its more potent form, DHT, is often the culprit in cases of male pattern baldness. DHT binds to receptors in the hair follicles, causing them to shrink, weaken, and eventually stop producing hair.

However, not everyone with high levels of DHT experiences hair loss, which underscores the role of genetic sensitivity to this hormone. In individuals with a genetic predisposition to male pattern baldness, hair follicles are more sensitive to DHT. When DHT binds to these sensitive receptors, it interrupts the normal lifecycle of the hair follicle, leading to gradually thinner and shorter hairs.

The concept of Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) resistance in the donor area is a key principle that forms the basis of hair transplant surgeries.

In men suffering from Male Pattern Baldness (androgenetic alopecia), hair loss typically occurs in a characteristic pattern, affecting the hairline, temples, and crown of the head. However, you may notice that the hair at the sides and back of the head – often referred to as the ‘donor area’ – generally remains unaffected. This is due to the unique feature of these hairs: their resistance to DHT.

DHT is an androgen hormone derived from testosterone through the action of an enzyme called 5-alpha reductase. DHT plays a major role in causing hair loss in genetically predisposed individuals. It binds to androgen receptors in hair follicles, causing them to shrink, which ultimately leads to hair thinning and loss.

However, the hair follicles located in the donor area have a natural resistance to DHT. This means that, despite exposure to DHT, these hair follicles do not undergo miniaturization or loss. They retain their robustness and continue to produce healthy hair.

This phenomenon of DHT resistance is leveraged in hair transplantation procedures. Surgeons extract hair follicles from these DHT-resistant areas and transplant them to areas of the scalp affected by hair loss. Importantly, these transplanted hairs retain their DHT-resistant characteristics even after they have been relocated. This means that they continue to grow as normal hair would, providing a permanent solution to hair loss in the transplanted areas.

medicines

Several medical treatments have been shown to be effective against Male Pattern Baldness (MPB), or androgenetic alopecia. The two most widely recognized treatments are Minoxidil and Finasteride. Here is a detailed look at both:

Minoxidil:Minoxidil, commonly known by the brand name Rogaine, is an over-the-counter medication approved by the FDA for the treatment of male pattern baldness. Originally developed as an oral medication to treat high blood pressure, it was noticed that patients using Minoxidil experienced increased hair growth as a side effect.Minoxidil is a topical treatment applied directly to the scalp. It is available in two forms: a liquid solution and a foam. Both are designed to be applied to the scalp twice daily.The precise mechanism by which Minoxidil works is not entirely understood. It is believed to work by prolonging the growth phase of the hair follicles and promoting increased blood flow to the hair roots, which in turn encourages hair growth.Side effects are relatively rare but can include scalp irritation, unwanted hair growth on adjacent areas like the forehead and face, and in rare cases, changes in heart rate or blood pressure.
Finasteride:Finasteride, sold under the brand name Propecia, is an oral medication approved by the FDA for treating MPB. It is a prescription drug that works by blocking the action of the enzyme 5-alpha reductase, which is responsible for converting testosterone into DHT. By reducing the levels of DHT in the body, Finasteride helps to prevent hair loss and stimulate new hair growth in men with MPB.It is typically taken once a day in tablet form. Improvement may not be seen immediately; it usually takes about three months of regular use to start noticing a slowing down of hair loss or increase in hair growth.Possible side effects of Finasteride include decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, and in rare cases, breast enlargement or tenderness. These side effects typically stop once the medication is discontinued.Both Minoxidil and Finasteride have been shown to be effective in slowing the progression of MPB and promoting hair regrowth. However, they do not cure MPB and must be continued long-term to maintain their benefits. If either medication is discontinued, hair loss will likely resume.

Newer drugs : biopeptides

Adding to the aforementioned treatments, the role of biopeptides in treating male pattern baldness has also been explored in recent years.

Biopeptides are short chains of amino acids, which are the building blocks of proteins. They have been used in various fields of medicine due to their wide-ranging biological activities. In the context of hair loss, biopeptides are believed to play a significant role in promoting hair growth and reducing hair loss.Biopeptides can help stimulate the anagen (growth) phase of the hair cycle, leading to a denser and healthier scalp. Some specific biopeptides, such as copper peptides and Procapil, have been used in hair care formulations for their potential benefits.

Copper peptides have been found to have anti-inflammatory properties and can also help to improve blood flow to the scalp, thereby delivering necessary nutrients to hair follicles. Furthermore, they are believed to protect hair follicles from DHT, which, as previously mentioned, is a major contributor to male pattern baldness.
Procapil, on the other hand, is a patented complex of a matricine-derived peptide, oleanolic acid from olive tree leaves, and apigenin, a flavonoid from citrus. It works by improving follicle anchoring, reducing DHT production, and promoting better blood flow, which in turn nurtures hair follicles with more nutrients and oxygen.
Bicapil:Bicapil is a synergistic complex of three natural botanical active ingredients: Scutellaria baicalensis, soy sprouts, and wheat sprouts. It targets the most common factors that contribute to hair loss. Scutellaria baicalensis is rich in baicalin, which has been found to inhibit the enzyme 5-alpha reductase, thus preventing the conversion of testosterone into DHT. Soy and wheat sprouts, on the other hand, are believed to prolong the anagen phase of hair growth, promoting longer, healthier hair.Bicapil has shown promise in clinical studies, with an observed increase in hair density and a decrease in hair loss in individuals suffering from androgenetic alopecia.
Redensyl:Redensyl is a patented blend of ingredients that includes dihydroquercetin-glucoside (DHQG), epigallocatechin gallate-glucoside (EGCG2), glycine, and zinc. Redensyl targets the hair follicle stem cells, known as the outer root sheath cells, to shift them from the dormant phase to the active phase, thereby promoting hair growth. It also reduces inflammation in the scalp, which can contribute to hair loss.Clinical trials have suggested that Redensyl can significantly increase the percentage of hairs in the anagen phase and decrease the hairs in the telogen (resting) phase. This results in an overall improvement in hair density and thickness.
Capixyl:Capixyl is a biomimetic peptide combined with a red clover extract. It has been shown to reduce inflammation, improve hair anchorage by strengthening the follicle, and stimulate the extracellular matrix proteins that help with hair growth.
Aminexil:Aminexil is a molecule developed by L’Oréal that works by combating the hardening of the hair follicle’s collagen, allowing the hair to set more solidly in the scalp. Clinical studies have shown Aminexil to help slow down the rate of hair loss.

It’s important to note that while these biomolecules show promise, they are not a cure-all for everyone, and results can vary. It’s always advisable to consult with a healthcare provider or a trichologist before starting a new hair loss treatment regimen. Additionally, more comprehensive clinical studies are needed to further assess the effectiveness and safety of these treatments.

In essence, biopeptides may offer a promising addition to the range of treatments available for male pattern baldness. However, it is important to note that while the initial results are promising, more research is needed to fully understand their effectiveness and long-term safety. As always, individuals should consult a healthcare provider before starting any new treatment for hair loss.

Treatment of male pattern baldness at neograft hair clinic

When it comes to tackling male pattern baldness, the first step is acknowledging the problem, and the next crucial one is seeking professional help. In this regard, there’s no one more qualified and experienced than Dr. Nav Vikram at NeoGraft Hair Clinic.

Dr. Vikram is renowned for his comprehensive approach to treating male pattern baldness. His meticulous evaluation and assessment process is personalized to fit your unique circumstances, ensuring that every facet of your condition is thoroughly examined.

Dr. Vikram doesn’t just treat symptoms; he seeks to understand the root cause of your hair loss, which may stem from genetic factors, hormonal changes, or other underlying health conditions. He delves into your history, scrutinizes your current condition, and with the help of advanced diagnostic tools, develops an accurate picture of your hair health.

Following evaluation, Dr. Vikram tailors a treatment plan designed specifically for you. Recognizing that each patient’s hair loss journey is different, he customizes his approach, employing state-of-the-art technologies and cutting-edge treatments to address your unique hair loss concerns.

From traditional treatments such as Minoxidil and Finasteride to exploring innovative options like biopeptides, Dr. Vikram stays abreast of the latest advancements in hair restoration science. He champions the use of nanomotors for extraction, a technique that minimizes damage, and uses a human cell growth culture medium for graft storage, both of which maximize graft survival rates.

Furthermore, Dr. Vikram values patient education. He takes the time to explain your condition, discuss potential treatment options, and guide you through what you can expect at every step of your hair restoration journey.

Choose a partner who understands the profound impact hair loss can have on your self-esteem and life quality. Choose a clinician who blends compassion, understanding, and medical expertise into a holistic approach to treating male pattern baldness. Choose Dr. Nav Vikram.

Begin your journey towards hair restoration today. Contact Dr. Nav Vikram at NeoGraft Hair Clinic, and take that decisive step towards a more confident you.