Androgenic Alopecia: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments

Androgenic alopecia, commonly known as pattern hair loss or male/female pattern baldness, is a widespread condition affecting millions globally. We want to provide you an in-depth look into the causes, symptoms, and various treatment options available to manage this type of hair loss.

Causes of Androgenic Alopecia

Androgenic alopecia is primarily influenced by genetic and hormonal factors. This condition is inherited in a polygenic manner, meaning multiple genes contribute to its development. The main culprit is dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a derivative of testosterone, which causes hair follicles to shrink over time. Individuals with heightened sensitivity to DHT, due to genetic variations, are more prone to hair thinning and eventual hair loss.

Role of DHT in Hair Loss

DHT is a key factor in Androgenic Alopecia (pattern hair loss). In individuals with a genetic predisposition, DHT binds to receptors in hair follicles, causing them to shrink (a process known as miniaturization). This leads to:

• Shortened hair growth cycles

• Thinner, weaker hair strands

• Gradual hair loss over time

Symptoms of Androgenic Alopecia

The condition can appear at any point in adulthood:

• Androgenic Alopecia In Men: Androgenic alopecia typically starts with a receding hairline, followed by hair thinning on the crown. Over time, these areas may merge, leading to more extensive baldness.

• Androgenic Alopecia In Women: Hair loss presents as diffuse thinning across the entire scalp, rather than forming distinct bald patches. Women usually retain their frontal hairline but experience overall reduced hair density.

Effective Treatment Options for Androgenic Alopecia

Thanks to modern research, several treatments can help slow down hair loss and promote regrowth. These options can be used alone or in combination, depending on the individual’s needs.

1. Medications

• Finasteride: This oral medication blocks the conversion of testosterone to DHT, helping to slow hair loss.

• Minoxidil: Applied topically, minoxidil widens hair follicles and extends the growth phase of the hair cycle, promoting thicker hair growth.

2. Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT)

• LLLT uses red light to stimulate hair follicles, encouraging growth. It’s a non-invasive option suitable for home or clinical use.

3. Hair Transplantation

• This procedure involves transferring hair follicles from dense areas (typically the back or sides of the scalp) to thinning or balding regions, offering a long-term solution to hair loss.

4. Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy

• PRP utilizes the patient’s own platelets, rich in growth factors, to stimulate hair follicle activity and promote regrowth.

Are you looking to learn how to perform Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy for hair loss and effectively treat Androgenic Alopecia? At AW, we offer a comprehensive course that equips you with the skills to deliver this treatment to your patients and achieve outstanding results, helping them regain their confidence. The Art and Science of Hair Restoration Modalities 

5. Mesotherapy

• Mesotherapy delivers a blend of vitamins, minerals, and nutrients directly to the scalp to rejuvenate hair follicles. This treatment can be paired with PRP or LLLT for enhanced results.

6. Micro-needling

• A micro-needling pen creates tiny punctures on the scalp, allowing nutrient-rich serums to penetrate deeper. This technique can also be combined with PRP or LLLT to improve effectiveness.

At AW, we offer a free webinar where you can learn how to perform Micro-needling for hair loss and effectively treat Androgenic Alopecia. Our mission is to provide you with the education and support needed to deliver the best results for your patients

7. Homecare Solutions

• Complementary homecare products, enriched with vitamins, minerals, and peptides, are essential for maintaining the benefits of professional treatments. Apply these products twice daily on a clean scalp to nourish the hair bulb and promote scalp health.

Recommended Products

At AW, we offer professional products designed to complement hair loss treatments such as PRP, Mesotherapy, and Micro-needling. These products are formulated to effectively support the treatment of Androgenic Alopecia in both men and women, enhancing results and promoting healthier, stronger hair

• F-HAIR and F-HAIR MEN

We also offer home care products to help you educate your clients on managing Androgenic Alopecia and establishing a healthy hair care routine. These products are designed to nourish the scalp, strengthen hair follicles. Empower your clients to take control of their hair health and see lasting results from the comfort of their home

• HAIR Mist and HAIR MEN Mist

Take Control of Your Hair Health

Androgenic alopecia can significantly impact self-esteem and quality of life, but there are various effective treatments available to manage it. At AW, we’re here to help you provide better treatments for your clients and educate them on developing a healthier hair care routine. By consulting a healthcare professional and creating a personalized treatment plan, clients can take proactive steps toward healthier hair and renewed confidence. With the right approach and ongoing support, you can empower your clients to effectively manage hair loss and improve their well-being.