The hair follicles in the center of the scalp and over the temple of the afflicted individualbegin to thin out, producing small, fine hairs which are barely visible. This is what results when testosterone is metabolized by an enzyme in the hair follicle. And because the hair follicles over the ears and back of the scalp do not possess this enzyme a fringe of normal hair is maintained.Female-pattern baldness is very similar to its male counterpart although it is rarely as complete, more diffuse, and often a frontal hairline is maintained.
Alopecia areata, a non-scarring alopecia, is an autoimmune disease characterized by a spontaneously marginal loss of hair over an area. At extreme, this can result in the loss of 100% of all body hair.Uncommon causes of alopeciaInfections such as syphilis and fungal infections, poor nutrition, skin diseases such as lupus and lichen planus, skin cancers, hormonal disorder, kidney failure, liver failure, thyroid disease, can cause hair loss.
Treatment for Hair Loss Finasteride helps stop hair loss in about 60% of men, and minoxidil decreases hair loss in about 50% of men and women.The best prevention of hair loss is early treatment. Research has shown that minoxidil is most useful for people who have been losing hair for less than five years.A doctor who can help determine if the medications are working and who can watch for side effects of the medications should follow up with people who are being treated with minoxidil or finasteride.
Medical TreatmentAndrogenetic alopeciaFinasteride (Propecia): a pill taken once daily that blocks the activity of an enzyme that metabolizes testosterone. Any regrowth is not permanent, however. Finasteride is not currently used for the treatment of hair loss in women.Minoxidil (Rogaine, Loniten): This medication is rubbed directly onto the scalp.
It enlarges hairs and makes them grow for a longer period.This works for both men and women.It is active for balding at the top and back of the head and less active for the front area of the scalp.Warning: Stopping this medication can result in loss of the hair that grew during its use.Alopecia areataInjection of steroids directly into the areas of skin affected can lessen the hair loss for some time.Hair loss in WomenSituations like pregnancy, crash dieting, or severe emotional trauma can definitely result in thinning hair.