Male Hereditary Baldness
Male pattern hereditary baldness, also known as androgenetic alopecia, is caused by the genetic sensitivity of hair follicles to male hormones, especially dihydrotestosterone (DHT). This sensitivity causes the hair’s growth phase to become shorter and the hair follicle to gradually shrink. Hair becomes thinner, shorter, and finer. As the condition progresses, some hair follicles may shrink and disappear completely.
In men, hair thinning typically begins at the temples and crown. The speed of progression is individual. For some, the change happens slowly over decades, while for others it progresses faster already at a young age.
Several genes affect hair loss, and hereditary predisposition can come from both the father’s and mother’s side. This is why even brothers may have a very different hair situation. Up to 80% of men experience male pattern hair loss at some point in their lives. Medically, it is a benign condition, but it can have a significant effect on self-confidence and quality of life and increase the risk of depression and anxiety.
Hair Loss Treatment Options
Hair loss can be treated if it bothers you. The choice of treatment method is based on an individual evaluation.
Male Hereditary Baldness
Hair loss can be treated with:
- Minoxidil solution and foam for the scalp
- Oral medications including finasteride, dutasteride, and minoxidil. Of oral medications, only finasteride has an official indication for treating hair loss in Finland. The best treatment results are achieved when treatment is started early enough. In most clients, medication slows down hair loss, and in some, hair growth may also clearly recover. However, the treatment is not effective for everyone. The effect may be weaker if hair loss begins at a very young age and progresses strongly. If the treatment is effective, the medication must be continued to maintain the result. The medications are generally well tolerated, but possible side effects are always discussed at the doctor’s appointment before starting treatment.
PRP and PRF Treatments
There is research evidence on the effectiveness of PRP (platelet-rich plasma) and PRF (platelet-rich fibrin) injection treatments in treating hair loss. In the treatment, the part containing growth factors is separated from the patient’s own blood and injected into the scalp to support the function of the hair follicles and hair growth.
PRP and PRF treatments are also used in scar treatment and for slowing down signs of skin aging.
Hair Transplant
In a hair transplant, functioning hair follicles are transferred from the back of the head to thinning areas. The transplanted hairs retain their properties in their new location. If hair loss progresses in other areas after the transplant, additional transplants may be needed later. Most clinics that perform hair transplants also recommend medication, as it improves the survival of the grafts and supports the long-term result.
Expert Care at Muotosairaala
Muotosairaala’s dermatologists
- Tuomas Mäkilä
- Ville Kiiski
are familiar with the medical treatment and comprehensive evaluation of male pattern hair loss. Book an appointment and let’s plan an individual treatment plan together.
