Male Pattern Hair Loss And Its Causes
Men suffer from baldness at all ages. More than one quarter of men in their 20′s and 2/3rd of all men who have crossed the age of 60 suffer from hair loss. Men are affected socially as well as psychologically by hair loss. Baldness is a result of damaged or shrunken hair follicles. On an average , one follicle lives for about 5 years, out of which 4 years are spent growing. Testosterone is a hormone which is present in males. An enzyme 5 alpha reductase converts it in to dihydrotestosterone (DHT). The follicles are affected adversely and the growth is slowed down, which leads to hair loss. The hair follicles are damaged and they are not replaced with new ones. Male pattern baldness is slow but irreversible in the later stages.
The Most common causes of hair loss in man
There are many factors, which cause excessive hair loss. Hormonal problems cause hair loss. Hair loss occurs when the thyroid gland is under active or overactive.
Genetics – Male pattern hair loss is caused by genetics in most cases. The genetics can pass on to you from one or both of your parents.
Drugs – Some medications also cause hair loss. This kind of hair loss can stop, when you discontinue those medicines. Anticoagulants, or blood thinners and medicines used for treating gout, high blood pressure, or heart problems, are known to cause hair loss.
Disease – Hair loss can be caused by certain diseases, but this happens rarely. If you think that a medication which you are taking is causing hair loss, then contact your doctor and take expert advice.
Stress – Many men testify stress as a cause of hair loss. It is healthy to maintain a good work life balance and reduce stress levels. You may also see a difference in your overall health.
Infections – Infections may cause hair loss amongst children. Hair loss may occur because of some major chronic illness, such as lupus or diabetes. If you experience hair loss, it is best to visit a doctor and get your problem diagnosed as soon as possible.
Types of medication for hair loss
If the cause of hair loss is stress or some type of medication, it will stop when its cause ends. But in case of hair loss due to infection, you may need oral antibiotics or antifungals to treat it. You can treat
Alopecia areata with injections such as triamcinolone into the affected area. The earlier you are in treating hair loss, the more successful you will be. You can also rub Rogaine directly on your scalp or use Propecia, a prescription hair loss medicine for men. Propecia is an oral drug, used for Hair loss treatment in men. It is an FDA approved drug. It blocks the conversion of testosterone in to dihydrotestosterone (DHT).
Side effect of medication for hair loss
- Decrease in sexual desire
- Anxiety and depression
- Problems with erection
- Decrease in semen volume ejaculated
Types Of Hair Loss In Men – Alopecia Areata And Androgenetic Alopecia
Some amount of hair loss is natural at any age and most men experience hair loss as part of the natural process of ageing. Hair loss can become a cause for concern when you experience diffused shedding of hair, patchy hair loss or progressive thinning or balding. These symptoms accompany a hair loss condition known as ‘alopecia.’
What is alopecia?
Alopecia is a medical term used for describing baldness or hair loss in men or women. There can be various causes for this common hair loss condition and it is classified into various types, depending on the symptoms. Alopecia may be caused by certain auto-immune conditions such as AIDS and lupus. Other conditions such as hypothyroidism and or fungal conditions such as ringworm could also be responsible for alopecia. Eczema is also known to result in hair loss.
Which men are more prone to male pattern baldness?
Male pattern hair loss generally affects those men who are genetically predisposed to it. It occurs when the levels of testosterone, the male sex hormone, rise after puberty. This testosterone is transformed into dihydrotestosterone (DHT) due to the action of an enzyme known as 5-alpha reductase. DHT adversely affects your hair follicles by slowing down the production of hair and making your hair shorter and weaker. In some cases, DHT can even prevent hair growth completely. This process gradually results in total hair loss.
Androgenetic alopecia vs. alopecia areata
Also known as male pattern hair loss, androgenetic alopecia is a hair loss condition that primarily affects men. It is characterized by a diffused and distinctive loss of scalp hair that starts when you are in your twenties or early thirties.
Androgenetic alopecia occurs according to a definite pattern, beginning above your temples, while your hairline recedes in the form of a typical ‘M’ shape. You also experience extensive hair loss on the top of your head, which can be either partial or total. Depending on the level of testosterone – the androgenic hormone in your body – male pattern hair loss can be linked to a combination of hormonal and genetic factors.
Alopecia areata is a form of hair loss that occurs in spots, either on the scalp or on other parts of the body. Hair loss in this condition tends to be quick and often occurs on one side of the scalp. This condition affects both men and women, and is quite different from androgenetic alopecia because it is not caused due to genetic factors. This hair loss condition is the result of an auto-immune disorder which causes the antibodies to react against hair follicles and attack them as though they were foreign body.
Hair loss treatments
Androgenetic alopecia is an extremely common genetic condition, but sometimes its medical treatment becomes inevitable. The mechanism of action for finasteride is tied to testosterone, the hormone that is metabolized by type II 5 alpha-reductase to DHT in the root of the hair follicle. DHT is thought to be responsible for male-pattern baldness. Finasteride can competitively reduce the levels of DHT in your hair follicle. The oral dose in men is 1mg once daily, without regard to meals; females and children must not use this medication.
Alopecia areata can be treated, particularly if it is addressed during the early stages. Treatment options include steroids, local injections, topical ointments and sensitizers, photochemotherapy and prescription medications also help stimulate re-growth of lost hair. These treatment options, however, may not prevent the formation of new patches or really cure the underlying condition. Consult your doctor in order to determine the best treatment option for you.
Ultimate Guide To Avoiding Hair Loss
Hair loss (Androgenetic alopecia) refers to the reason of hair loss that is influenced by the androgen hormone, the genetic tendency for balding and aging. Because hair loss is caused by these hormones, treatment is available to immediately and dramatically prevent the loss of hair.
Androgenic Hormones
In general, normal men including women make male hormones. Testosterone, underestimation, and dihydrotestosterone (DHT), are the most common that they produce. Androgens are manufactured by the men’s adrenals and testicles, and in women, by their adrenal glands and ovaries. In both sexes, these hormones are important but take place in different concentrations and amounts.
When hair follicles are exposed to DHT, a genetically prone individual, over time, leads to androgenetic alopecia, or female and male pattern baldness.
In particular cells of the hair follicle, as with in the sebaceous glands, there are enzymes called 5-alpha-reductase that are in high levels, converting testosterone which is then carried to these areas by the blood, and into DHT.
Hair loss myths:
Myth #1: Hair loss of an individual is inherited from the mother side.
Not true. Genetics is one factor of hair loss, it can be inherited from either the father’s or the mother’s side.
Myth #2. Frequent cutting of hair will make it grow thicker.
Not true. Although when the hair is cut, it would appear thicker at first, after three days or so, your hair would drop off and new hair would grow, having the same diameter as the pre cut hair.
Myth #3. Wearing a Hat Can Cause Hair Loss.
Not true. The hat can help by blocking off the sun’s harmful rays. Although wearing a hat for a very long period of time may cause sebum accumulation due to temperature changes and can react with cholesterol creating a hardened sebum plug that will cut off oxygen circulation causing the hair to fall out.
Myth #4. DHT is the reason for hair loss.
Not true. Although an over production of DHT is a significant reason for hair loss, it is not the only cause.
Myth #5. Frequent shampooing and blow drying lead to hair loss.
Not true. Heat can damage the hair, reason for brittle hair; it does not harm the roots of the hair.
Even worse, some perscription drugs are known to cause hair loss. Avoid if at all possible the following drugs:
- Cholesterol-lowering drugs:
- clofibrate (Atromis-S)
- gemfibrozil (Lopid)
- Antidepressants:
- tricyclics, amphetamines
- High blood pressure:
- atenolol (Tenormin)
- metoprolol (Lopressor)
- nadolol (Corgard)
- propranolol (Inderal)
- timolol (Blocadren)
- Antithyroid:
- carbimazole
- Iodine
- thiocyanate
- thiouracil
- Ulcer drugs:
- cimetidine (Tagamet)
- ranitidine (Zantac)
- famotidine (Pepcid)
- Anticoagulents:
- Coumarin
- Heparin
Actions you can take to prevent hair loss:
- Stop coloring or perming your hair very often for it can damage it - Limit exposure of your hair to chlorine - Avoid exaggerated brushing or combing wet hair - Use a conditioner every after shampoo to make grooming manageable and easier - Regulate heat exposure. Blow-drying, hot-curling and exposure to straightening irons may damage your hair over time - Avoid medications that can lead hair loss such as Vitamin A, testosterone products, beta blockers, certain antidepressants and certain cholesterol-lowering agents - Too much alcohol should be avoided. Be careful in choosing your hair care products as some contain alcohol and can contribute to hair dryness, brittle and hair that is prone to breakage. - Tight ponytails and braids can lead to hair damage - Maintain a healthy diet, eating lots of fruits and vegetables and drinking enough water - Birth control pills can contribute to hair loss - Consult your doctor if should you notice abnormal hair loss, as certain medical conditions such as lupus or having polycystic ovaries, or hyperthyroidism can cause hair loss
Vitamins you can take to prevent hair loss:
- Thiamin ( B1)
Containing the mineral sulfur, this is the essential element of the hair that gives gloss and shine.
- Riboflavin (B2)
This vitamin is vital for body cell breathing, ensuring efficient oxygen utilization for cell repair and production.
- Niacin (B3)
Helps to widen capillaries and vessels thereby increasing the blood circulation to the scalp to help stimulate hair growth. It also may reduce the cholesterol build up which is essential since cholesterol on the scalp will convert to the enzyme 5 alpha reductase.
- Pahtothenic Acid (B5)
This vitamin helps in restoring hair color and brightness. It works with the amino acid Tyrosine Folic Acid, PABA and Copper in the deterrence white and gray hair.
- Biotin (B7)
Biotin is a widely used ingredient in hair products due to its hair promoting properties. Biotin increases hair cortex elasticity , prevents breakage, and thickens hair cuticle.
- Cobalamin (B12)
Regenerates red blood cells for healthy hair.
- Pyridoxine (B6).
Responsible for protein intake balance, it helps in transporting amino acids to the proper tissues. This is also essential in the conversion of one amino acid to another like the conversion of Methionine to Cysteine. With Inositol, they regulate oil flow to the scalp and the skin.
Author: John Morris
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
Beading Necklace
Hair Loss – Cause, Prevention and Treatment
The adult scalp contains about 100,000 hair follicles. Everyday the scalp loses about 100 hairs and they will grow back in 5-6 weeks. Starting at age 40, the levels of by-product prolactin of testosterone of men increases, stimulating the production of the enzyme 5-alpha reductase that causes the conversion of testosterone to gihydro-testosterones DHT causing our hair to grow back thinner or not grown back at all. This causes an androgenic alopecia hair loss problem, since DHT shrinks the follicles causing hair thins and hair receding at the forehead, crown and temple for men and thins over the entire scalp for women. What causes hair loss.
1. The Causes of Hair Loss
a) Aging
Human aging is the biological process that is unavoidable but controllable with healthy diet with complex carbohydrates, green foods, garlic, onion, water and juices that will help to decrease the aging process in some degree. It also helps to reduce the amount of DHT produced in our body, result in postponing hair loss to our scalp.
b) Mineral deficiency
Minerals such as calcium, iron, copper, chromium, iodine, zinc, and magnesium are necessary to maintain healthy hair growth. Mineral deficiency will reduce the chance to regulate the blood circulation that promotes healthy hair growth and thyroid hormones that prevent dry hair and hair loss as well as defects in hair color. Too much iron is toxic to your body. Be sure to talk to your doctor before taking any mineral supplement.
c) Oxygen deficiency
Oxygen deficiency in your blood weakens the hair follicles, leading to dryness of the scalp and hair loss. Uncontrolled diet that is high in saturated fat causes cholesterol building up in your arteries resulting in less oxygen in your blood stream. Also cigarette smoking and second hand smoke reduces the blood flow and increases the blood clotting activity of cells which would clog the blood flow and damage arteries causing oxygen deficiency and results in weaken of the hair follicles.
d) Side affects of medication taken
Some medications contains elements that might cause hair loss such as lithium, warfarin, heparin, and amphetamines. When hair loss is a side effect of a medication, hair growth usually returns to normal once the drug is stopped.
e) Genetic hair loss
Hair loss is due to heredity. It is passed down from generation to generation. Genetic hair loss appears predominately in men, but may also appear in a few select women.
2. Food to Avoid
Foods that can cause hair loss and diminish hair growth.
a) Saturated and Trans fat
Foods such as meat, poultry, and fried foods contain high saturated fat. Foods such as margarine, cheese, and butter contain high amounts of trans fat. These foods cause cholesterol to build up in your arteries and small veins in your scalp resulting in less oxygen being delivered to the cell in your body, including the cells on the follicles.
b) Foods that contain Aspartame and Monosodium Glutamate
Monosodium Glutamate contain chemicals that causes weight gain, increased appetite and also causes various kinds of health problems such as hair loss.
Aspartame contains toxic chemicals that make you gain weight, increases hunger and causes medical problems like migraines and poor blood circulation.
c) Smoking
As we mentioned in the previous article, smoking can reduce blood flow to the scalp causing hardening in the arteries, limit blood flow and make hair loss worse.
d) Artificial Color
Artifiicial color contains chemical compounds that take their toll on the body’s natural balance.
Specific foods to avoid include colored drinks, color-coated candies, gummy and chewy candies, and many colored cereals.
e) Preservatives
These are potentially toxic to the liver and kidneys that cause hair loss and prevent hair growth as we mentioned in the article “Hair loss part IV–regrow hair with Chinese herbs”.
f) Food Packaging
Polyvinyl chloride is a known carcinogen, and it’s often used as plastic food wrap. It is toxic with high amounts causing damage to the kidney and liver resulting in hair loss.
g) Salt
Eating too much salt can lead to fluid retention and increased blood pressure that cause less oxygen to be delivered to the body’s cells including cells in your scalp in result of losing hair.
3. Hair Loss Prevention and Treatment
I. Here are some important minerals that may help to prevent hair loss and promote hair re-growth:
a) Iron
Iron is involved in the oxygenation of your body’s red blood cells. It is essential for normal hair growth and maintaining healthy hair. If the amount of iron can not be replaced with food intake, iron deficiency will cause hair loss because of oxygen deficiency.
b) Zinc
It helps to secrete the scalp with much needed oil and avoid dandruff that may cause hair loss.
c) Copper
Study shows that these tripeptide complexes may actually be able to regrow hair, even in patients with total hair loss due to alopecia. Healthy tissue concentrations of copper lie between 1. 7 and 3. 5 milligrams. Everything else will cause hair loss.
d) B vitamins
The deficiency of B vitamins (especially B6, B3, B5 and folic acid) in your diet may lead to hair loss.
e) Biotin
Biotin works as an anti aging agent and helps to produce keratin in preventing gray hair and hair loss.
Sources of biotin are: whole grains, egg yolks, liver, rice and milk.
f) Vitamin A
Vitamin A is important for over-all good health. It’s also beneficial to hair follicles, as it keeps the hair root lubricated. Too much vitamin A might result in hair loss.
g) Vitamin E
Vitamin E acts as an antioxidant that aids effective circulation in the scalp due to increased oxygen uptake in blood, therefore it plays an important role in promoting hair growth and preventing hair loss.
h) CQ-10
Coenzyme Q10 (CQ-10) is an essential vitamin that provides our body with the nutrients needed to grow healthy hair. They also promote overall vitality, and contribute to beautiful skin and strong nails.
II. Here are some daily foods that might help to prevent hair loss and promote hair re-growth
1. Yogurt and soy
Yogurt and soy contain high amounts of protein that is needed to maintain hair growth. Study shows that soy protein reinforces hair and stimulates its growth.
2. Dark green vegetable
Dark green vegetable contains high amounts of iron that are needed to restore oxygen levels in the blood stream as well as nurturing the body’s cells.
3. Whole grain products
Whole grain contains zinc which is needed to maintain healthy hair. Zinc deficiency can lead to dry hair and oily skin.
4. Essential fatty acid
Essential fatty acid can be found abundant in cold water fish. It helps to maintain healthy cholesterol and reduce triglyceride in result of increasing circulation of blood flow in our body.
6. Nut and seed
Nuts and seeds are fatty foods which are typically the best sources of vitamin E, an immune enhancing antioxidant and nerve protector. Deficiency of vitamin E can lead to skin disorders, dry hair and loss of hair.
7. Carrots
Carrots contain high amounts of vitamin A. It is an antioxidant that helps produce healthy sebum in the scalp. Having too much vitamin A can lead to hair loss.
There are many other foods that help promote hair growth and prevent hair loss, such as fruits, egg, spinach, and broccoli.
Be sure to talk to your doctor before taking large amounts of the above foods. There may be side effects, such as overdoses of vitamin A in carrot might result in hair loss.
III. Traditionally, herbs have been around for over thousands of years and offer much success to prevent or cure diseases well before the discovery of western medicine. Here are some herbs thathave been proven in treating hair loss and promoting hair growth
a) Shikakai
Acacia Concinna is a small shrub-like tree that grows in India. It’s pod-like fruit is collected, dried and then grounded into a fine powder. It is used to cleanse hair, and is known to promote hair growth and get rid of dandruff. Due to these benefits, this powder was named shikakai which means “fruit for the hair”.
b) Grape seed extract
Grape seed extract is a very strong antioxidant that some use as a supplement or remedy to various conditions. It contains high levels of vitamin E and essential fatty acids that are essential for maintaining hair growth and preventing hair loss.
c) Kirin Brewery new discovery
Japanese cosmetics company Shiseido working with Kirin Brewery has discovered a unique property of an extract of hops that can help to activate the melanocyte cells that generate hair pigment.
d) Saw palmetto
As we mentioned in another article, Saw palmetto is the number one choice for men. Saw palmetto helps to block the formation of 5-alpha reductase, an enzyme that causes the conversion of testosterone to DHT that causes hair loss.
e) Basil extract
Basil Extract from the natural flowers of the basil plant, works to quickly soothe and calm skin of the scalp.
f) Pumpkin Seed
Pumpkin seeds help to block DHT, which is responsible for genetic hair loss. This common seed is loaded with zinc and magnesium that have the ability to block enzymes which yield DHT causing damage to follicles and resulting in hair loss.
g) Buddleja Davidii Extract
Buddleja Davidii extract contain active ingredients protecting the skin against toxic radicals. It can also help reduce skin aging and protect the skin against the damage caused from stresses and toxins.
h) Green Tea
Green tea contains the chemical globulin that helps to reduce levels of free testosterone, so that it cannot be converted to dihydrotestosterone (DHT) in the hair follicle.
Be sure to talk to your doctor or dermatologist before taking any herb supplement.
IV. Traditionally Chinese herbs have been around for over 4000 years and have offered much success to prevent or cure diseases well before the discovery of western medicine. Hair loss is directly linked to kidney deficiency syndrome in Chinese traditional medicine. People with hair loss problems especially in their early life may have a weak Kidney. Here are some Chinese herbs that have been proven in treating hair loss and promoting hair growth
a) Dong Quai
Traditionally, Chinese woman used Dong Quai to restore blood cells and increase the circulation of oxygen in the bloodstream to cells after period. Dong Quai contains phytoestrogen that helps to block the androgen receptor site in result of blocking the conversion of testerone to DHT, therefore reducing the chance of hair loss due to aging.
b) Ginseng
Ginseng is said to have the power of rejuvenating and energizing the body. It also helps to stimulate circulation of oxygen in our bloodstream to the cells of our body as well as the cells in our scalp.
c) Shou wu (polygonum)
Shou Wu is a polygonum multiflorum plant. It is now being used in conjuncture with other herbals, as an active ingredient in shampoos and orally administered to prevent hair loss as well as aiding the restoration of roots and production of new hair.
d) Psoralea seeds
Study shows that psoralea extract and exposure to ultra violet light will help to restore hair loss and promote hair regrowth with a 33% success rate.
e) Mulberry
Chinese herbalists believe that mulberry is an excellent tonic for the kidney, liver and blood that provides more oxygen in the bloodstream as well as small blood vessels in the scalp.
f) Chinese Yam
Numerous successful studies have been performed in examining the benefits of the Chinese yam. Chinese yam can help to nourish the liver, kidney and blood in result of preventing hair loss and promoting hair growth.
g) Green tea
Green tea containing catechins inhibit the enzyme 5-alpha-reductase that converts testosterone into hair-unfriendly DHT. So drinking great tea everyday is an effective treatment for male pattern baldness.
h) Chinese foxblove root
Chinese foxblove root contains cornus, the chemical that help to nurture the kidney, liver and blood in result of promoting hair growth.
i) Wolf berry
One of the natural superfoods has been used in traditional Chinese cooking. Wolf berry helps to eliminate toxins in the body in result of better function of the kidney, liver and blood that help to promote hair growth.
Chinese medicine believes that the benefit of nourishing the kidney and blood tonic helps for healthy hair growth and preventing hair loss.
V. Here are some prescription and over the counter drugs that might help prevent further hair loss and promote hair growth.
1. Minoxidil
Minoxidil is an over the counter drug and is a spray or lotion that you put directly on your scalp twice a day. It is available without a prescription. It is believed to work by affecting potassium- regulating mechanisms in the hair follicle. Study shows that it helps to slow and stop hair loss and regrow new hair with over 60 % success rate. Be sure talk to your doctor or dermatologist before taking minoxidil. It might cause rash to some patients.
2. Finasteride
Finastteride is an oral prescription medication. Finasteride is a synthetic hormone that halts hair loss and stimulates new hair growth. It is a medication that selectively inhibits the activity of an enzyme that converts the “male hormone” testosterone into a form that is active in hair follicles.
3. Rogaine
Rogaine is a clear alcohol-based solution and should be applied to a person’s thinning area with it’s supplied dropper or spray twice a day. It helps about 25 percent of men and 20 percent of women to grow back moderate amounts of hair very gradually, mostly on the very top of the head. They must keep using Rogaine indefinitely to keep the new hair.
4. Retin-A
Retin-A is only available by prescription in the US. In the right doses and when combined with Minoxidil it can be a hair growth stimulator. Studies shows that Retin- A can result in moderate hair growth in some patients.
5. Proscar
Proscar contains the same active ingredient finasteride. Proscar has the effect of lowering the hormone DHT, which interacts with bald vulnerable hair follicles and causes hair loss. By reducing the DHT in the patient’s body the finasteride in the Proscar proved to slow and even stop or reverse hair loss in many men.
Before taking any hair loss medication over the counter, please consult first with your doctor or dermatologist.
I hope this information will help. If you need more information of the above subject, please visit my home page at:
Author: Kyle J Norton
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
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Choosing One From the Many Hair Loss Products in the Market
Hair is a major part of ones appearance, a confidence booster. And when people, men or women, start losing hair, their confidence levels take a dive, some suffer from severe depression. Normally people loose about 50 to 100 hair per day, which is very normal but if this number much more then a doctor should consulted immediately.
Excessive hair loss from the scalp can cause baldness and it could be due to many factors. Heredity is a major factor here. Being on certain medication, undergoing some treatment, improper diet, high stress levels can all lead to temporary or permanent baldness. In males, hairline starts receding and hair becomes thinner near the top. In women, thinning of hair is seen on the scalp and has follows no pattern, like males.
There are many types of hair loss or baldness and it is very important to know the cause of baldness before going for a product or treatment. Today the market is flooded with hair loss products which claim 100% regrowth of hair. But one should not apply any hair loss product without consulting a doctor first as causes for hair loss varies from person to person. It is found that a male hormone, dihydrotestosterone (DHT) is converted to testosterone by an enzyme 5 alpha reductase which is a major factor for androgenetic alopecia, or loss of hair due to ageing.
There are two FDA approved products; namely finasteride and minoxidil, which have a high success rate. One of the hair loss products is Propecia, a finasteride tablet, which is an oral pill. This oral pill has to be taken once a day; it blocks the enzyme which creates DHT. DHT is the hormone which is associated with thinning hair and baldness. This pill is only for men and should not be used by women and children.
The other hair loss product is minoxidil which in United States is marketed as topical Rogaine solution. It helps people, both males and females, with Androgenic alopecia, losing hair due to age. It increases the blood supply to hair follicles and thus stimulates growth of hair. Now a generic version of minoxidil is also available.
Products like Nizoral and Avodart are not FDA approved but have some what been effective. US brand name for Dutasteride is Avodart which has been found to treat male pattern baldness on the top and crown of the head.
Topical and oral treatments, both have their pros and cons. An oral tablet is easy to take than a topical solution. It is seen that a combination treatment of oral with topical hair loss product is successful.
Author: Caitlina Fuller
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
Provided by: Gadget reviews
Dutasteride – Powerful Hair Loss Treatment
For men who are balding there is a new drug on the horizon that promises better results than Propecia. This new drug is named Dutasteride and goes by the brand name Avodart.
Dutasteride was invented as a treatment for the treatment of prostate enlargement. In clinical trials the doctors noticed that a side effedt of the drug was hair re-growth in the balding patients. Propecia was also discovered in this way several years ago.
The excitment about Dutasteride is the fact that it has proven to be more effective and faster acting than any other treatment thus far in the fight aqainst hair loss. Dutasteride works by blocking the formation of DHT 5 alpha-dihydrotestosterone. What makes Dutasteride even more effective is it’s ability to also inhibit both types of 5-alpha reductase (5AR).
As with other hair loss drugs women should not take Dutasteride. In fact pregnant women should not even handle the drug as it is easily absorbed through the skin. Dutasteride can cause serious side effects in newborns. Birth defects may occur when large amounts of the drug are absorbed into the body during the period of fetal development. Men who have taken Dutasteride should not donate blood for atleast 6 months after stopping treatment.
Propecia and Avodart should be taken once a day. It has been found that after two years of treatment, Propecia effectively grows hair in about 66% of patients. Also, about 83% of the subjects receiving this treatment continue to maintain their existing hair after two years.
Author: Tim Grimsley
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
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The Particulars Of Propecia
With all the talk these days about Propecia I figured that this little pill needed a closer look. It is the only FDA approved drug for the treatment of male pattern baldness and it is being touted by many as the only thing that actually does something to stop the nightmare of a receding hairline. Many men have been quick to accept these claims and they take this pill every day but do they really know what they are taking?
First of all, the name of the actual ingredient in Propecia that should get all the credit for fighting the battle at the front lines of the war on receding hairlines is called finasteride. Some chemists working for the drug company Pfizer invented it in a laboratory and it does some pretty amazing things. It is a 4-azasteroid compound that is a specific inhibitor of the Type II 5 alpha-reductase. In plain English, it basically prevents androgen testosterone from being converted into 5-dihydrotestosterone, or DHT. This preventative process stops your hair follicles from dying, which allows more hair to grow on your head.
The enemy, known as DHT is an enzyme that is found primarily in the prostate, seminal vesicles, epididymides, hair follicles and liver. These particular parts of the body account for approximately 67 percent of the DHT that circulates in the bodies of men. The war on baldness is going on at an intracellular level and finasteride is your army that is fighting gallantly for you against an evil enzyme.
Here are some particulars of the actual ingredient finasteride. It is a white crystalline powder with a melting point of 250 degrees Celsius. If you put finasteride in lower alcohol solvents it will freely dissolve, but it is almost insoluble when placed in water. Most Propecia pills available contain 5 mg of finasteride. They are film-coated tablets that also contain the inactive ingredients hydrous lactose, microcrystalline cellulose, pregelatinized starch, sodium starch glycolate, hydroxypropylmethyl cellulose LF, hydroxypropylmethyl cellulose, titanium dioxide, magnesium stearate, talc, docusate sodium, FD&C Blue 2 aluminum lake and yellow iron oxide. These inactive ingredients are mostly just the bonding and filling agents that it takes to make a little pill of Propecia that men can take every day.
There are some warnings when it comes to who can and cannot take Propecia. Women should not take it, nor should anyone who has liver problems. This is due to the fact that this drug works on the enzyme DHT which is primarily produced in the liver.
In most studies that have been performed on men between the ages of 18-54 who used Propecia on a daily basis for several months 65 percent showed an increase in hair growth over areas of the front and top of the scalp. Once the active ingredient finasteride interacts with the hair follicles in bald areas of the scalp, the follicles seem to come back to life. Hair begins to grow again, and so does your self esteem. So it would seem that Propecia is the best product available for men to use in the treatment of male pattern baldness, otherwise known as alopecia. The side effects are minimal and the process is as easy as taking a pill. The results have been very positive in the hair growth department.
In the war against a receding hairline it is good to know that a little white crystalline powder know as finasteride is fighting the battle for you at the intracellular level against a very destructive force known as 5-dihydrotestosterone, or DHT. In plain English, if you cannot afford a hair transplant and you want to know what the next best choice would be to have a better head of hair, Propecia seems to be the answer.
Author: Michael Connelly
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
Provided by: Digital Camera News
Androgenic Alopecia – Treating Androgenetic Alopecia With Propecia
Propecia is used to treat male-pattern baldness, which generally occurs on the front mid-scalp and on the vertex regions. Such condition is also known as androgenetic alopecia in which males experience thinning or gradual losing of hair on certain areas of the scalp. These undesirable changes commonly start in men at their 20s.
Propecia is composed of 1 milligram Finasteride. This drug inhibits type II 5-alpha reductase, an enzyme that changes testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT) inside the human body.
It must be especially noted that Propecia can only be used by men, and not by children or women. The Finasteride content of the Propecia tablet can be absorbed in the body through the skin. Furthermore, it has teratogenic effects on the fetus hence it must also be strongly kept away from pregnant women. Because of these unwanted effects, the tablets of Propecia are coated to prevent skin contact with Finasteride content during normal usage, for as long as the tablets are neither crushed nor broken. If in case a woman comes in contact with the active ingredient of the Propecia tablet, you must immediately wash the region with water and soap.
If you decide to take Propecia, you must first tell your physician about any allergic reaction to the drug or to a drug that has the same Finasteride content. Your doctor must also know whether you have liver conditions, bladder disorder, prostate cancer, or urination problems.
Propecia must be taken exactly as the physician has prescribed. Lowering or increasing the dose of the medicine, without consulting a doctor, should definitely be avoided. The prescription label may include directions, which you must strictly follow. Propecia can be taken on an empty or full stomach, and a full glass of water is essential.
If a dose is missed, take it as soon as you remember. But if your next medicine dose is already near, just skip the missed dose and take the next one. Never double your dose to make up for the missed one. Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine. However, an overdose of Propecia is not expected to produce life-threatening symptoms.
The medication may cause nausea, swelling on extremities, testicular pain, impotence, abnormal ejaculation, dizziness, body weakness, skin rash, among others. Emergency medical assistance should be reached when an allergic reaction occurs, as indicated by symptoms like difficulty of breathing, hives, and swelling of the face, tongue, lips, or throat. Call the doctor right away if tenderness, nipple discharge, lumps, or any changes on the breast are noticed as these signs may indicate breast cancer.
For best results, Propecia should be taken regularly. It may take three months or perhaps even more before wanted effects can be observed. However, if the drug seemed to not work after twelve months of using it, a doctor must be consulted and further treatment may be recommended.
The medication must be stored at room temperature. It must be kept away from heat, light, and moisture. The medicine bottle must be kept tightly closed if idle or not in use.
Author: Wong Darren
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
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Hair Loss Treatments
Hair loss treatments are defined as the clinical methods or clinical procedures to restore, and re-grow the hair if you are suffering from any kind of hair loss or hair fall problem.
Hair loss treatments are broadly divided into three categories:
Medical Treatment for Hair Loss, Propecia, Rogaine, Avodart, Nizoral
Hair Transplants
Non Surgical Hair Replacement
Medical Treatments for Hair Loss Treatments
Propecia and Rogaine are the two FDA approved medicines for hair loss treatment. Propecia is the pill and Rogaine is a topical lotion available in different strengths.
Propecia
Propecia is the oral pill of 1mg used once in a day. Chemically it is the enzyme inhibitor that inhibits 5-alpha reductase enzyme that converts testosterone into dihydroxytestosterone (DHT) that as a result makes the hair thin and in each cycle hair gets thinner, finer and finally stops growing. Propecia blocks this enzyme and maintains existing hair and promotes the re-growth of hair follicles. It also converts thinner hair into thicker hair and improves the texture.
Rogaine
Rogaine is the topical lotion available in 5% liquid solution in a range of strengths from regular to extra strength. It is used to treat both men and women. It increases the protein content of hair that allows hair follicle to make new hair. It is considered a hypertrichotic agent. Rogaine was first discovered as a side effect of high blood pressure medicines. It was further investigated to treat hair loss and it has found to be effective treatment for hair loss.
Avodart and Nizoral
Avodart and Nizoral are the two products that show effective results when treating hair loss, but they are not FDA approved. Physicians recommend using these drugs at least for 6 to 8 months. Short term treatment is not effective to solve the problem effectively.
Hair Transplants
Hair transplant is the surgical method to treat hair loss or baldness. Doctor redistributes the hairs from thick area to bald areas. Transplant surgery is performed under local anesthesia. Minimal pain has been reported during the surgery.
Steps of Hair Transplant Surgery
* Scalp is thoroughly cleaned.
* Area with normal hair growth is anesthetized with small needles. And after that portion of hairy scalp is removed with a scalpel and saved for the next step. Then the scalp is stitched properly to close.
* Next step is removal of scalp from each hair with sharp blades and magnifying glass.
* Final step is the cleaning and preparing of the portion of scalp that has these healthy hairs to be transplanted. Scalp of this area is anesthetized with small needles and very fine holes are made in scalp and the healthy hair are carefully grafted in these holes. In a single sitting hundreds and thousands of hair are successfully transplanted.
However certain risks are related to hair transplant. The most common complication is bleeding, infection and scaring. It is also possible that the transplanted hairs fail to give you desired looks. They may look unnatural; this problem has been solved in modern techniques. Transplanted hair starts growing normally only after several months of treatment. As transplanted hair is permanent they do not require extra care. Use of pain killers is advised for many days. Surgical dressing must be put on for a day or two. Antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs are also prescribed to use after surgery.
Hair Cloning
Hair cloning is the process in which hair are removed from hair follicle and grown out side and then grafted over the areas where it is required. Hair cloning will be the next significant treatment to treat hair loss.
Non-Surgical Hair Replacement
It is a very affordable option for individuals who suffer from significant hair loss and want their previous look back without having any surgery. Some companies are making very fine natural looking hairpieces. Hair piece has been available in market with different names like Hair System, Toupees, Strand-by-strand Insertion System, Hairpieces etc.
The Base of Hair System
Prostheses are used as base for the hair system on which hair are tied or injected.
Materials
Polymers and meshes both independently or in combination are used to make base of the hair system.
Mesh Fabric
Mesh fabrics are made up of polyesters or nylon. They are used to make only hair line or some times entire system. It gives very natural look. It is light in weight and comfortable to wear. In contrast it is very expensive and less durable, due to this it has to be replaced frequently.
Polymers
Silicone or polyurethane is the main component of polymer. Base made from this material gives appearance of scalp or skin. It is more durable than mesh fabric. It is very inexpensive, durable, easy to attach. But it has certain disadvantages too. It is extremely hot and uncomfortable to wear and gives artificial look.
Hair in the Hair Piece
Hair piece is made up of human hair that matches with the hair of the client. In color, texture, nature of curl or wave or straightness as well as thickness. Cheaper hair system is made up of moderate quality human hair, animal hair, or artificial fibers. Expensive and medium priced hair systems are made up of European hairs that grow on large scales in wide variety of color, textures, densities and curls, wave or straight. Very low priced hair piece is made up of Asian black straight hair. Asian hair are very strong they can be bleach or dyed.
Attaching Hair Piece
The method to attach hairpiece may cause hair loss as glue and clips are used to attach hair pieces.
Semi-Permanent Attached Hairpieces
Such hair pieces are only attached and removed by hair practitioner after every six weeks. Such hair pieces are attached with adhesive substances like glue.
Different kinds of glue material are marketed in hair industry with different names. Such as poly fuse, natural bond, poly bond etc.
Temporary Adhesive Attached Hair Pieces
It is very easy type of attachment. You can remove it any time whenever you want. Double sided tape is used to stick hair pieces. However beware as these kinds of hairpieces can be detached due to heavy sweating and during swimming.
Clip Attachment
Metal clips are also used to attach hair pieces in a secure way. It is very easy to remove the hair piece.
These are the major types of hair loss treatments commonly available in the market. You can select any treatment of your choice or go for doctor’s prescribed treatment.
Author: Mary Solomon
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
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Can Hair Serum Reduce Hair Loss?
We all have our personal nightmares and one of them is hair loss. Some of us are lucky to meet this bogey late in our lives. But others have to start living with it even when they are in their twenties or thirties. Loss of hair can have an adverse effect on our self esteem and by extension, on our professional and social life. So we have to find solutions to this problem. To do that we may start by asking what causes hair fall.
First we must know that hair loss is a two fold problem: hair fall and hair thinning. There are three causes for hair loss. Usually all these problems are concomitantly present. And thus all three of them must be dealt with to prevent untimely hair loss.
DTH
The most prominent reason is DTH. DHT is the acronym for the hormone named dihydrotestosterone. When the 5 alpha reductase enzyme, merges with testosterone, DTH is formed. This DTH collects at the base of hair follicles and does not allow the hair to take in the oxygen and nutrients required for proper growth of the hair. Consequently, the hair gets shorter and fragile. If saw palmetto and nettles extracts can be applied, hair growth improves because DTH tends to get attached to them.
Lack of proper blood circulation in the scalp
Hair growth is also adversely affected by the lack of adequate blood circulation in the scalp. Studies have revealed that the blood circulation of the scalp of people with normal hair is three times higher than the circulation of balding people. If proper blood circulation can be ensured, hair growth improves. The blood brings the required oxygen and nutrients to the hair.
Blocked follicles
Keeping the hair follicles free of sebum and dirt is also important because blocked follicles retard hair growth. Sebum is the oil generated by the sebaceous glands in the scalp.
The ideal serum
If a serum could combine DTH inhibitors and blood circulation enhancing compounds it could be used as a medicine for hair loss. The ideal serum should not leave behind residues that obstruct the hair follicles. It should also be complemented by a shampoo that cleans up the dirt that naturally accumulates in the scalp. Used together such a serum and a shampoo should enhance hair growth and impede hair loss without causing any damage to the user’s hair or scalp.
SureThik.com presents hair serum that incorporates all of the most effective all-natural hair regrowth ingredients in the world.
Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/hair-loss-articles/can-hair-serum-reduce-hair-loss-1644382.html
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