Baldness is an experience many men experience, but it often remains shrouded in mystery and false beliefs. This natural phenomenon can appear at different times in a man's life and conceals much more than just a few missing hairs. It's a cosmetic issue, certainly, but also a significant psychological issue that can affect self-esteem.
And because the subject is not exclusive to men, we will also discuss alopecia in women in this article, to better understand and demystify this phenomenon.
At LAO Care, we know how much a healthy scalp and strong hair contribute to your well-being . So, sit back, we're here to share reliable and comprehensive information on hair loss and our natural solutions.
What is baldness?
Baldness, or androgenetic alopecia, is a progressive hair loss that mainly affects men, but can also affect women. This form of hair loss differs from other types of hair loss (hormonal for example), because it is unfortunately irreversible .
Scientifically, baldness stems from a combination of genetic and hormonal factors. The main culprit? Dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a derivative of testosterone, affects the hair follicles—the roots of your hair. This sensitivity leads to a gradual shortening of the hair's life cycle , causing it to become thinner and thinner, eventually disappearing. Without a hair follicle, there's no hair, just like the root of a plant disappearing.
Baldness is easily identified by the fact that the hairline recedes at the temples and crown of the head , forming a recognizable pattern. This pattern can vary from person to person, with some experiencing mild hair loss, while others may experience more extensive baldness.
Causes of male pattern baldness
Male pattern baldness, often seen as inevitable, has its roots in your genes but is also exacerbated by environmental factors. The main culprit remains genetics, so if someone in your family has it, you're likely to too!
Stress is also another known trigger for hair loss. Are you going through a stressful time? This can disrupt your hormones , which will affect the hair growth cycle, leading to accelerated hair loss . Certain illnesses, as well as nutritional deficiencies, can affect the health of the scalp and hair.
It's also important to highlight the impact of lifestyle habits on hair health. An unbalanced diet, smoking, and excessive exposure to harsh chemicals can all contribute to the deterioration of hair quality and accelerate hair loss.
At LAO Care, we encourage a holistic approach to maintaining hair health. This includes not only using natural, nourishing scalp products, but also adopting a healthy, balanced lifestyle!
Taking care of yourself also means taking care of your hair... and delaying the onset of baldness!
How do you know if you are bald?
The first and most obvious sign of baldness is thinning hair on the crown of the head and around the temples. This phenomenon, often referred to as "receding hairline," initially manifests as a receding hairline , often forming an "M" pattern.
Another indicator is a change in hair texture . Hair may become thinner, more brittle, and lose its density. In some cases, hair loss may be more pronounced after showering or brushing.
Note that these signs can also be symptoms of other health problems or nutritional deficiencies. Consult a dermatologist or trichologist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. These specialists can use various methods, such as scalp analysis, blood tests, or trichoscopy, to assess the nature and cause of hair loss.
The different stages of baldness
Understanding the stages of baldness is essential for identifying which stage you are in and what steps to take. Male pattern baldness typically progresses through several phases, categorized according to the Norwood Scale, a widely recognized classification system:
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Stage One : This stage is often difficult to notice because hair loss is minimal. A slight receding of the hairline around the temples may be the only visible sign.
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Intermediate stages : These stages are characterized by a more pronounced receding of the hairline and the appearance of thinning areas on the crown of the head. Hair loss becomes more obvious, often forming a "U" or "M" pattern.
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Advanced stages : In these stages, baldness is more pronounced, with significant or even complete hair loss at the top of the head. The remaining band of hair around the head also thins.
The progression of baldness can vary from one individual to another . Some may remain at an intermediate stage for long periods of time, while others may experience rapid progression to advanced stages.
Treatment and prevention
Prevent baldness
Taking care of your scalp is the clear solution to slow down the appearance and intensity of baldness as much as possible.
Gentle hair care: the essential shampoo
Use a very gentle, sulfate-free natural shampoo like LAO Care shampoos . This will gently cleanse the scalp and remove impurities and pollution . Pollution is one of the aggravating factors in hair, as it oxidizes the hair and sebum and contributes to accelerated aging.
Another advantage of LAO shampoos is that they have proven effectiveness against the oxidative effects of pollution and UV rays... so much so that the brand has obtained a patent on the subject!
Baldness, although genetic, can be managed through various treatments and preventative measures. The goal is to slow the progression of hair loss, strengthen existing hair, and, in some cases, stimulate regrowth.
For more specific advice on your hair, in terms of nutrition... and to find the most suitable shampoo for your hair thickness, take the LAO diagnosis in 1 minute!
Food: Well-being comes from within!
The role of diet in the capillary system is often underestimated. You will need to include:
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Protein : Hair is primarily composed of keratin, a protein. Sources include meat, fish, eggs, legumes, and nuts.
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Iron : An important element for hair health. Good sources of iron include spinach, lentils, chickpeas, pumpkin seeds, and red meats.
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Vitamin C : It aids in the absorption of iron. Fruits and vegetables such as oranges, strawberries, peppers, and broccoli are good sources.
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Omega-3 : These fatty acids help maintain healthy scalps. They are found in oily fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts.
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Zinc : Essential for hair growth and tissue repair. Sources include nuts, seeds, eggs, and dairy products. Protein, iron,
In any case, limit the consumption of processed and sugary foods , which can aggravate hair loss... and this will only be beneficial for your health!
Treatment for baldness
Let's be very clear: there is no miracle cure for baldness in terms of cosmetic products. Once the hair follicle has disappeared, no cosmetic will make it reappear. Only trust brands that conduct clinical tests and are honest about the limits of their products' effectiveness!
Here are some concrete solutions for you , if you want to recover your hair or slow down the appearance of baldness:
Medical treatments : Options such as minoxidil or finasteride are often prescribed to treat baldness. These medications can slow hair loss and, in some cases, stimulate the regrowth of remaining follicles. It is essential to consult a healthcare professional to assess the benefits and risks associated with these treatments.
Surgical solutions : In some cases, options such as hair transplantation may be considered. The surgeon will take hair follicles from the crown, or the perimeter of your head, and replant them one by one onto the scalp.
These procedures are generally recommended for advanced stages of baldness and should be discussed with a specialist.
If you decide to go to a clinic, take the time to read as many reviews and feedback as possible to ensure you get a lasting implant. It's better to invest a little more in the procedure and achieve a lasting, consistent result.
Alopecia and hair loss in women
Alopecia is not a phenomenon exclusive to men; women can also suffer from it. Although less common and generally less severe than in men, alopecia in women can have a profound impact on well-being and self-confidence.
Unlike male pattern baldness, female pattern baldness often manifests as diffuse thinning of hair across the entire scalp, rather than localized hair loss. Causes can vary, ranging from hormonal factors (such as those related to menopause) to medical conditions, nutritional deficiencies, or stress.
In conclusion...
Baldness, whether it affects men or women, is a complex phenomenon that requires understanding, care, and patience . You are unique, and so is your hair!
Take the time to adopt better care products and, above all, better habits to prevent rather than cure!
At LAO Care, our mission is to help you achieve a naturally healthy scalp and hair. You'll find personalized advice in our diagnostic , but you can also write to us directly if you have any questions!
Frequently Asked Questions About Male Pattern Baldness
Is it possible to stop baldness?
It's difficult to completely reverse baldness, especially if it's advanced and genetic. However, treatments like minoxidil or finasteride can slow its progression. Using the right hair products, like those offered by LAO Care, can also help strengthen hair and maintain scalp health.
At what age does baldness affect men?
Male pattern baldness can begin as early as the late teens, but it is most common from the thirties. The average age of onset varies among individuals and depends largely on genetic and lifestyle factors.
What causes male pattern baldness?
The main causes of male pattern baldness include genetic factors, sensitivity of hair follicles to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), stress, hormonal imbalances, certain diseases, and nutritional deficiencies. Lifestyle habits such as an unbalanced diet and smoking can also contribute to hair loss.
How to grow hair after baldness in men?
Regrowing hair in cases of advanced baldness is difficult, but there are options to stimulate the growth of remaining hair. Medical treatments like minoxidil can help. A healthy lifestyle, a diet rich in essential nutrients, and the use of natural, nourishing hair products, like those from LAO Care, can also promote healthy, strong hair.
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