Losing your hair can seriously affect a person’s self image and self esteem.
With men, however, it is something that is more or less accepted as a natural occurrence by society at large. In fact, about fifty percent of the general population experience normal hair loss by the time they reach 50 years old. We may not like it, but sooner or later half of us are forced to accept it.
Hair loss in women, though, is often perceived in a much different way.
Male pattern baldness is an all too common phenomenon which at the moment has no known cure. It is something that is determined largely by genetics.
Its development can however be slowed down with the correct treatment. Read on for more information on this.
Alopecia is a form of hair loss that is a medical condition. It can occur at any age, though it generally affects females more than males.
There are several variations of alopecia:
Androgenic Alopecia
As mentioned above, this is the variation of alopecia which is commonly known as ‘male pattern baldness’. Often hereditary, this condition can in fact affect both sexes.
Treatment to slow down androgenic alopecia is available. Topical application of minoxidil (Rogaine) and oral preparations containing finasteride (Propecia) have proved to be helpful here. So if this condition is affecting you, be sure to consult your doctor or health advisor about possible treatment.
Natural approaches that have proved successful in preliminary studies include saw palmetto and beta-sitosterol. Consult your health food store for more information on these particular supplements.
Alopecia Areata
This is patchy hair loss, affecting different sections of the head, which tends to affect teenagers and young adults more than older people.
This condition may be hereditary and for most – but not all – can be embarrassing yet temporary. In general, it last about a year or so. Pregnancy can sometimes trigger the condition due to changes in hormone levels.