Facts about Hair Loss in Men and Women

One of the most dreadful conditions in a man and woman’s life is hair loss or baldness. Experiencing hair loss alters the physical appearance, takes away the look of youthfulness, and affects the emotional well-being of a person. Therefore, in order to prevent or treat this frustrating hair condition, it is best that a better understanding be gained about the nature of hair loss in men and women.

• Men are more prone to hair loss
Men are more susceptible to alopecia or hair loss because of their genetic makeup. Testosterone (a principal male hormone), when acted upon by the enzymes 5-alpha reductase, is converted to DHT (dihydrotestosterone). The accumulation of DHT in the scalp weakens the hair follicles and hampers the growth of healthy hair, causing hair loss in men that is commonly known as male-pattern baldness. The high presence of testosterone in men is the reason that baldness or hair loss is more observed in males. It is a blessing in disguise that men are more able to sport complete baldness.

• Hair loss in women is due to hormonal imbalances
The reason that hair loss in women is less pronounced is the presence of the primary female hormones estrogen and progesterone. These hormones are the protective agents against DHT. Upon reaching menopause, however, estrogens are produced in fluctuating or decreased levels; hence, the buildup of DHT pushes through. Women experience hair loss during pregnancy and after childbirth. This type of hair loss is bound to eventually stop, though, and regrowth of hair will be obtained after some time.

• There are other factors that cause hair loss in women and men
Aside from the formation of DHT in the scalp and changes in the production levels of hormones, baldness or alopecia or hair loss in men and women can also be due to the following factors:

• Malnutrition
• Lacking nutrients such as iron and vitamin A
• Frequenting hair equipments (e.g., straighteners and curling irons) and hair treatments (e.g., bleach and dye)
• Inconsistent use of hair products (e.g., wax, mousse, gel)
• Medical conditions (e.g., anemia, thyroid diseases, lupus, arthritis)
• Radiation treatments and chemotherapy
• Strong medications

With these facts in mind, hair loss in men and women may be prevented by being more mindful of the health of the scalp and the whole body.