Androgenic Alopecia
This is a genetic condition that is characterized by the gradual disappearance of the hairline from the frontal scalp and/or the crown as early as teen age.
Causes: Both men and women produce testosterone. Hair follicles, as well as sebaceous glands, contain high levels of an enzyme called 5-alpha-reductase. This enzyme converts testosterone in to dihydrotestosterone (DHT) via the blood. DHT is the main catalyst for androgenic alopecia or genetic hair loss in both men and women.
Over time, genetically susceptible follicles are weakened by DHT. This hormone binds with the receptor sites of these vulnerable follicles and causes the hair follicles to shrink over time until they no longer grow.
Symptoms: There is no physical ailment associated with genetic hair loss, but some sufferers complain of scalp inflammation and itching. The first sign of balding typically appears in the hairline and gradually extend in to the crown (vertex).
However, mens hair loss and the degree of thinning may differ from person to person and some individuals do not lose any hair besides minor temple recession, while others go completely bald on top.
Treatments: There are millions of lotions, potions and pills that are so-called treatments for androgenic alopecia. However, the vast majority of these products are bogus and do not work. Truthfully, there are only two medications that have been approved by the FDA to stop the progression of genetic hair loss: Propecia (finasteride) and Rogaine (minoxidil). However, those suffering have been combining Nizoral - Aketoconazole shampoo, which is an anti-fungal shampoo used to treat dandruff.
There have been some clinical studies that have shown that Nizoral may be somewhat effective in treating mens hair loss. The combination of finasteride, minoxidil and Nizoral is often referred to as the “big 3”. That said, the only way to truly regrow hair on a bald scalp is through hair transplant surgery.
This type of hair loss is caused by inflammatory skin conditions such as folliculitis, cellulitis, and acne that destroys the ability of hair to regenerate.