Androgenetic Alopecia affects both men and women and is categorized by a well defined hair loss. Starting at the temples, the pattern continues in men mostly and the hairline recedes further, often forming a pattern of ‘M’ shape. While the hair thins out at the crown, the condition worsens over time to lead to partial or even complete baldness.

However, it is essential to note that the pattern of Androgenetic Alopecia differs between men and women. While men start to go bald in the middle of their head, often termed as ‘male-pattern baldness’; in women the disease affects the entire head. The hair thins out, but the hairline often doesn’t recede. For women, Androgenetic Alopecia rarely ever leads to total baldness, though growth becomes scanty and bald patches occur on the head.

What are the causes of Androgenetic Alopecia?

Researchers have proved that genetic and environmental factors play a major role in Androgenetic Alopecia. But the truth is that science hasn’t been able to pin-point at concrete reasons that is making this disease so common in humans. Androgenetic Alopecia is known to be the most common reason causing baldness in human being currently, which is why researchers are trying extra hard to understand the real causes behind this disease.

Studies have shown that the pattern of hair loss is related to androgens, which are hormones in the body. DHT or dihydrotestosterone, a hormone that is essential for male sexual functions, has been linked with causing Androgenetic Alopecia. But the problem is that androgens are found in both men and women and are very important to regulate hair growth as well as ensure normal sex drive. But scientists have found that Androgenetic Alopecia in men is usually caused by sensitivity to DHT, which is passé don in their genes. Some studies also suggest that hormonal imbalances are leading to Androgenetic Alopecia, because it changes the structure of the androgens and brings changes in the hair follicle and the scalp.

Alopecia Areata is another cause for going bald. Alopecia Areata treatment becomes important because losing out hair affects a person in more ways than one. Not only does it affect their aesthetic beauty, it also reduces confidence levels and in many cases becomes a cause for depression. Apart from medications, now doctors suggest lifestyle changes as a part of Alopecia Areata treatment. Many Alopecia Areata treatment are available, starting with treating the condition and creating a balance in the hormones to even extreme measures like hair transplant. It is up to each individual how they would like to handle the baldness and how much it affects them in day to day life.