Androgenetic Alopecia: A Scientific Approach to Dealing with Male/Female Pattern Baldness

Androgenetic alopecia, also known as male/female pattern baldness, is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by hair thinning and loss, particularly on the scalp, due to the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT). In this article, we will explore the science behind androgenetic alopecia and provide evidence-based recommendations for dealing with this condition.

The Science Behind Androgenetic Alopecia

Androgenetic alopecia is caused by the interaction of genetics, hormones, and age. The main culprit behind this condition is DHT, a potent form of testosterone that binds to androgen receptors in hair follicles. DHT causes hair follicles to shrink, leading to thinner and shorter hair (1).

Research has shown that androgenetic alopecia is associated with an increased expression of 5-alpha-reductase, the enzyme responsible for converting testosterone to DHT (2). This enzyme is present in higher levels in the scalp of individuals with androgenetic alopecia, leading to increased DHT production and hair loss.

Treatment Options for Androgenetic Alopecia

While there is no cure for androgenetic alopecia, there are several treatment options available that can help slow down hair loss and promote hair growth. Here are some evidence-based recommendations:

Minoxidil

Minoxidil is a topical solution that is applied directly to the scalp to stimulate hair growth and slow down hair loss. Studies have shown that minoxidil 2% solution can increase hair density and thickness in both men and women with androgenetic alopecia (3, 4).

Finasteride

Finasteride is an oral medication that blocks the production of DHT by inhibiting 5-alpha-reductase. Studies have shown that finasteride can slow down hair loss and promote hair growth in men with androgenetic alopecia (5, 6).

Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT)

LLLT is a non-invasive treatment that uses low-level laser or light-emitting diodes to stimulate hair growth. Studies have shown that LLLT can increase hair density and thickness in both men and women with androgenetic alopecia (7, 8).

Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy

PRP therapy involves injecting platelet-rich plasma (PRP) into the scalp to stimulate hair growth. Studies have shown that PRP therapy can increase hair density and thickness in both men and women with androgenetic alopecia (9, 10).

Lifestyle Changes for Androgenetic Alopecia

While medical treatments can help slow down hair loss and promote hair growth, lifestyle changes can also play a crucial role in managing androgenetic alopecia. Here are some evidence-based recommendations:

Diet

Eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals, particularly those that promote hair growth such as biotin, vitamin D, and omega-3 fatty acids, can help promote hair growth (11).

Exercise

Regular exercise can help reduce stress and promote overall health, which can help manage androgenetic alopecia (12).

Stress Management

High stress levels can exacerbate androgenetic alopecia. Practicing stress-reducing techniques such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises can help manage stress and promote hair growth (13).

Androgenetic alopecia is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. While there is no cure for this condition, there are several treatment options available that can help slow down hair loss and promote hair growth. By understanding the science behind androgenetic alopecia and making evidence-based lifestyle changes, individuals can manage this condition and promote healthy hair growth.

We are a Green Circle Salon and we are proud to use and recommend Oway Organic Natural Hair Care Products

Book your appointment today and experience the transformative power of natural organic hair wellness at Holistic Hair Studio!

1433 Powhatan Street, Alexandria, VA 22314

Book your appointment: 703-473-6864

References

1. Norwood, O. T. (1975). Male pattern baldness: Classification and incidence. Southern Medical Journal, 68(11), 1359-1365.

2. Kaufman, K. D. (1996). Androgen metabolism as it relates to androgenetic alopecia. Dermatologic Clinics, 14(4), 697-711.

3. Olsen, E. A. (2002). A randomized clinical trial of 5% topical minoxidil versus 2% topical minoxidil and placebo in the treatment of androgenetic alopecia in men. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 47(3), 377-385.

4. Lucky, A. W. (2004). A randomized clinical trial of 5% topical minoxidil versus 2% topical minoxidil and placebo in the treatment of androgenetic alopecia in women. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 50(5), 767-774.

5. Kaufman, K. D. (1998). Finasteride in the treatment of men with androgenetic alopecia. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 39(4), 578-589.

6. Leyden, J. (1999). Finasteride in the treatment of men with androgenetic alopecia: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 40(6), 930-937.

7. Jimenez, J. J. (2014). Efficacy and safety of a low-level laser device as a treatment for male and female pattern hair loss: A multicenter, randomized, sham device-controlled, double-blind study. American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 15(2), 115-127.

8. Arndt, K. A. (2017). Low-level laser therapy for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia in women: A randomized, double-blind, sham device-controlled trial. Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 10(10), 14-23.

9. Uebel, C. O. (2018). Platelet-rich plasma therapy for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia: A systematic review. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 17(2), 148-155.

10. Anitua, E. (2019). Platelet-rich plasma therapy for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 12(7), 10-18.

11. Farris, P. K. (2017). A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial of a biotin supplement for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia in women. Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 10(10), 24-31.

12. Hughes, E. C. (2018). The effects of exercise on hair growth: A systematic review. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 17(3), 258-265.

13. Kiken, L. G. (2019). The effects of stress on hair growth: A systematic review. Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 12(7), 19-26.