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Male Pattern Baldness (Androgenetic Alopecia)
Male Pattern Baldness, also known as Androgenetic Alopecia, is the most common cause of hair loss in men. It occurs due to a sensitivity in the hair follicles to androgens (male sex hormones), particularly affecting the frontal and crown areas of the scalp. Unlike the back and sides of the head, these areas have receptors that react to these hormones, causing hair to thin over time and eventually fall out.
Here’s a breakdown of the stages of male pattern baldness:
- Type 1: Minimal recession at the temples with slight thinning along the hairline.
- Type 2: Noticeable frontal recession, with little to no hair left in the frontal region.
- Type 3 Vertex: Hair loss begins at the vertex (top of the scalp), accompanied by a deep frontal recession.
- Type 4: Significant hair loss at the frontal and temporal regions, with thinning in the vertex area.
- Type 5: Extensive hair loss in both the frontotemporal and vertex regions, separated by a narrow band of hair.
- Type 6: The band of hair separating the frontal and vertex areas disappears, leading to more extensive baldness.
- Type 7: The most severe stage, where only a horseshoe-shaped band of hair remains on the sides and back of the scalp.
Traction Alopecia
Traction Alopecia occurs due to prolonged tension or pulling on the hair, which can damage the hair follicles. This type of hair loss is common in individuals who frequently tie their hair tightly, such as Sikhs who wear turbans. Over time, this constant pulling damages the dermal papilla and hair follicles, leading to a permanent straight hairline and thinning along the border if not addressed early.
Cicatricial Alopecia
Cicatricial Alopecia is a rare and severe condition where hair follicles are destroyed, often leading to permanent hair loss. This disease is difficult to detect in its early stages and can have devastating effects if left untreated. Although rare, it affects both men and women and can result in scarring that prevents hair regrowth.
Trichotillomania
Trichotillomania is a psychological condition where individuals have an uncontrollable urge to pull or twist their hair, leading to noticeable hair loss. This impulsive behavior can cause hair to break off, creating uneven bald patches on the scalp. The condition primarily affects females, with about 4% of the population experiencing this disorder. Common areas for hair pulling include the scalp, eyebrows, body hair, and eyelashes. Trichotillomania is often linked to underlying conditions such as depression, anxiety, and poor self-esteem.