A lot of hair loss is
caused by hormone fluctuations. This is called
hormonal
hair loss. Both males and females are susceptible
to this form of hair loss. The major difference is that
while this type of hair loss is often
temporary
hair loss in females it may be permanent in males.
In males, hormonal hair loss is caused by a malfunctioning
prostate gland. The prostate begins to produce large
amounts of a hormone called DHT.
This hormone is an aggressive form of the testosterone
and in large amounts causes the follicles of the hair
to shrink, thus preventing the growth
of new hair.
At the same time this hormone acts to weaken existing
hair so that if falls out. The result of this is often
total baldness. While this type of hair loss can be
treated it can not be cured.
Fortunately, women with hormonal hair loss are in
a better position. For females this is rarely if ever
a permanent problem. Hormonal hair loss in women usually
occurs after the birth of a child, but may also occur
during puberty, pregnancy, and menopause.
This is due to a drop or increase in the amount of
estrogen in the woman’s body. For example, after
the birth of a child, a woman’s estrogen level
drops. This leaves her more vulnerable to the side
effects of the testosterone in her body. This can
cause the hair follicles to shrink and hair loss to
begin. The hair loss will normally end as soon as
the woman’s hormones return to normal.
Because hormonal hair loss is often temporary in
women, it can be treated with over the counter hair
loss shampoos meant to revert the loss of hair.
However, men with hormonal hair loss may have to resort
to other hair
restoration techniques such as hair replacement
surgery, hair plugs and laser
hair restoration. The reason for such extreme
measures, is that this condition is typically permanent
in men.
Men are likely to have complete bald spots from hormonal
hair loss, and need a way to fill these patches in.
For a man, this is a very serious problem indeed,
and one that needs attention because it will not go
away on its own. No male or female should have to
suffer balding with the hair
loss treatments available today.