Male pattern baldness is an inherited condition known as androgenetic alopecia. A Medline Plus study found that more than half of men over 50 are affected by this condition.
You cannot always prevent your hair from falling out as you age. However, there are hair treatments and men’s grooming products that can help to slow the process.
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What Is Male Pattern Baldness/ Androgenetic Alopecia?
One of the most common causes of hair loss is male pattern baldness. This problem is caused by increased sensitivity of hair follicles to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which results in a gradual decrease in hair dimension and, eventually, hair loss. Hair loss in Androgenetic alopecia is patterned because follicles in certain areas of the scalp are more sensitive to DHT than others.
Can Male Pattern Baldness Be Reversed?
Although it is not always possible to reverse hair loss, the sooner you act, the more likely you will see positive results. While not guaranteed, the science-backed solutions listed below can help many people stop or slow down hair loss—and sometimes even regrow hair.
Over-the-counter (OTC) Treatments for Male Pattern Baldness
1. Minoxidil
Minoxidil 5% is a common over-the-counter hair loss treatment that has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). It is available in foam or serum form and is beneficial for hair regrowth. Minoxidil helps to grow beards while also treating hair thinning and scalp baldness. It stimulates and expands your hair follicles, resulting in naturally thicker hair growth.
Minoxidil application appears to help lengthen the anagen phase, resulting in thicker or longer hair.
How to use it?
Here are the steps to use minoxidil topical solution:
- It is critical to thoroughly dry the hair before applying the solution.
- 1 ml of the solution should be filled into the dropper (provided with the solution).
- Apply with a dropper to patchy or bald areas. Part your hair properly to allow the solution to reach your scalp.
- After rubbing the solution into your scalp with your fingers, leave it on for 4-5 hours.
- Finally, thoroughly wash your hands with lukewarm water and soap.
2. Redensyl
Redensyl is an effective alternative hair fall treatment that contains a newly discovered molecule known as dihydroquercetin-glucoside (DHQG), a plant extract-derived compound that targets stem cells in hair follicles and promotes cell division.
Redensyl for hair also contains anti-inflammatories, amino acids that form hair proteins, and other natural hair growth ingredients.
Redensyl is generally regarded as the best alternative to hair transplants because it is natural, non-hormonal, and promotes hair growth at the roots.
How to use it?
Redensyl hair serum shortens the telogen phase and lengthens the anagen phase, effectively reducing hair loss and maintaining hair regrowth.
The anagen phase lasts over three years, the catagen phase over three weeks, and the telogen phase over three months. Redensyl promotes hair fall control by activating productive hair cells.
Redensyl is most effective when used during the telogen phase. The method of application is determined by the hair care product used:
- Apply Redensyl oil to your scalp and leave it on overnight if you’re using it. Then, in the morning, wash your hair.
- If you use Redensyl hair restore serum or oil-in-serum, apply it after washing your hair.
3. Finasteride
Finasteride is an effective hair treatment medication used to treat male pattern baldness, affecting the scalp’s crown and middle.
This medication comes with a number of precautions for use. It is only for adults and is not suitable for pregnant or breastfeeding women or children.
Scientists initially developed finasteride to treat prostate cancer. It reduces the amount of a hormone called dihydrotestosterone (DHT) in the scalp. Lowering DHT levels may promote hair regrowth and slow hair loss because DHT appears to thin hair follicles on the scalp.
In contrast to minoxidil, finasteride does not affect hair growth in other parts of the body.
You can buy finasteride either orally or topically. According to a 2020 review, the topical formulation of this drug is less likely than the oral version to cause serious side effects.
How to use it?
To use finasteride, simply take one tablet once a day. Finasteride is an oral medication that can be taken with or without food. Try to take finasteride at the same time every day for the best results.
Summary
Hair loss can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, skin disorders, and scalp disorders. Even though hair loss cannot always be prevented, hair care products like minoxidil and finasteride, as well as over-the-counter products, can help slow or stop it.
People who are concerned about their hair loss, especially if it is sudden, should consult a doctor. A doctor may take several tests and ask questions to determine the cause of hair loss. You can also book a free online doctor consultation with ManMatters, which has a team of expert hair specialists who can assist you in your hair loss journey from the comfort of your own home.