Hair loss affects over 80 million Americans. It’s so common that it’s estimated that by 35 years old, two-thirds of men will experience hair loss to some degree. It could feel like men are destined for dad-bod baldness. But, there are a lot of factors that go into hair loss, and some of them are fully treatable if caught and treated.

Some hair loss comes down to genetics, but even for those with a hereditary hair loss in their genes, they can also be treated.

In this article, we’re going to talk about male pattern hair loss 101: the causes and the treatments. No matter the cause, there is hope for everyone to keep and restore their beloved locks.

The most common cause of male hair loss

By the age of 50, 85% of men will have significant hair loss. The men at 60 or older with a full head of hair are pretty lucky blokes.

Men commonly deal with what’s known as male pattern baldness, or androgenic alopecia. This causes hair thinning at the temples, front, and crown, and over time this causes a receding hairline.

As this condition progresses, the crown can go bald, while a tell-tale ‘horse shoe’ shaped pattern of hair runs along the back of the head.

There are several causes for this. Let’s get into the specifics.

Yes, it comes down to your genetics

Known as the most common reason for hair loss, hereditary hair loss is genetically passed down from both your parents.

If your father went bald at some point in his life, there’s a decent chance you have the genetic makeup for male pattern baldness as well.

Not only can you inherit similar hair loss patterns, you can also inherit a DHT sensitivity.

DHT is the problem

Dihydrotestosterone, also known as DHT, is created when testosterone converts into a new form. Having an excessive amount of DHT can affect your hair growth cycle.

However, what researchers have discovered is people can inherit a DHT sensitivity which can make hair follicles more susceptible to damage.

The androgen receptor (AR) gene, is what interacts with DHT -- if that receptor is sensitive it can cause hair loss.

With high levels of DHT binding to androgen receptors, this could cause hair thinning and loss, eventually leading to permanent follicle damage.

Age plays a role in male pattern baldness

Another factor in hair loss is age. Most young guys don’t have to worry about their hairlines, but as you get older you can see a gradual thinning of hair.

The American Hair Loss Association says 25% of men with hereditary hair loss genes can start losing their hair before 21 years old.

This percentage only grows with age.

By the age of 35, 66% of men deal with hair loss, and finally 85% of men older than 50 deal significantly thinner hair.

In general, as we age, hair growth slows down, we lose hair pigment, and overall thinning can occur. So, for me, the older you are the higher your chances are of dealing with male pattern baldness.

DHT blocking hair loss treatments

Now, let’s get into the good news.

There are alot of treatments for DHT-related hair loss. Here are some effective and scientifically proven hair loss solutions for men.

1. Finasteride

Finasteride is a medication that can block DHT from being created. It comes in oral and gel form. This is known as a DHT inhibitor. Finasteride belongs to the class of medications called 5-alpha reductase inhibitors.

If you have inherited hair loss, finasteride can help you override the effects of DHT overproduction and DHT sensitivity.

2. Minoxidil

While finasteride blocks DHT production, minoxidil can get to work stimulating your hair follicles. It’s the active ingredient in rogaine and has been around for decades. It’s proven effective for those with male pattern baldness.

3. Spironolactone

Spironolactone is another popular form of a DHT inhibitor. This is great as a two fold hair loss treatment: DHT blocking and follicle stimulating topical.

Male hair loss is treatable

If you’re seeing thinning or receding hairline, seek treatment sooner rather than later. If your hair loss is DHT related, progressed conditions can cause minimization of the hair follicle thus creating permeate hair loss. Don’t want to deal with going to the doctor over hair loss? You’re in luck. Strut Health diagnoses and treats hair loss online. Seek treatment to keep or restore your precious locks.

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