Hair loss affects a huge amount of men women all over the world. By the age of 25, nearly 40% of men experience significant hair loss; by the age of 60, that percentage jumps to 65%. Hair restoration options are available to help combat this problem. However, contrary to popular belief, hair loss isn’t caused by washing your hair too much or wearing a hat. Your genetic makeup is responsible. In fact, the future of your fair was decided before you were even born.
Causes of Hair Loss
Stress, health, nutrition, medications, and age account for less than ten percent of all hair loss. Androgenetic alopecia is responsible for genetic balding. DHT or dihydrotestosterone is a male hormone that is responsible for degrading hair follicle. An excess of this hormone and two other factors are responsible for genetic balding. The other two factors are the presences of androgens and a genetic predisposition to balding.
Which Hair Restoration Options Will Work Best?
There are a number of hair restoration options. Some are more effective than others are. Drugs, topical solutions, hair restoration therapy, and hair replacement systems are all very popular. Some of these options are very expensive, such as hair restoration surgery. Others, such as some topical solutions, are available over the counter.
The top prescription drug is Finasteride, commonly known as Propecia and Proscar. This drug makes it much more difficult for the body to produce DHT. As one of the more popular hair restoration options, this drug can slow hair loss, but doesn’t really promote new hair growth. Once you quit taking the pill, your hair loss will begin again.
Topical solutions, such as Minoxidil or Rogaine, works in a similar way to Finasteride. It slows hair loss for many men and some men even experience new hair growth. Since it is available over the counter, it is very popular for those who don’t want to see their physician about hair restoration options.
Hair replacement systems and hair restoration surgery are other options. These involve removing small plugs of hair from an area where the hair continues to grow. These plugs are then implanted in areas that are balding. There is a risk of infection, as with any surgery, and your doctor can explain the process and the risks in detail. In most cases, there are several surgeries required and it can become quite expensive. The results, though, are permanent.
Making the Right Choice
Your budget will obviously play a significant role in which of the hair restoration options are best for you. However, you should also consider how much hair you have lost and how quickly your hair loss is occurring. If you choose to use a prescription drug or a topical solution, consider whether you want to take a pill or use that lotion for years to come.
Summary
Hair loss can hurt your self esteem and even cause you anxiety. The hair restoration options that are available today are effective, but not without some risks. Speak to your doctor about your options and see which one will be the best for you.