Male hair loss is very common, with half of all men experiencing some degree of balding or thinning hair by the age of 50, rising to 80 per cent by the age of 70. In the majority of cases, male hair loss is caused by a condition called androgenetic alopecia, or male pattern baldness (MPB).
Why should there be regional variations in rates of male hair loss?
New research carried out on behalf of a UK barber shop has revealed the hair loss hot spots around the country. According to a report in the Yorkshire Evening Post, the cities where men are most likely to be going thin on top include Wakefield, Preston, Chelmsford, Swansea and Birmingham.
The biggest factors that will determine whether a man will suffer from MPB are genetics and hormonal patterns. Therefore it is interesting that the survey found regional variations across the UK. The research was carried out by analysing the frequency and location of internet search terms such as “how to prevent male hair loss.”
One reason might be down to demographics: as age is a risk factor for MPB, cities with ageing populations will have a higher density of affected individuals. However, Birmingham, which has one of the youngest populations in the UK, features in the list. Another reason might be overall health and lifestyle factors, because this can affect the progress of MPB.
Speaking about the possible causes, barber shop manager Robyn Mulgrew explained: “There are many reasons why men in some areas may experience a higher rate of balding than others, from genetics and stress to diet and smoking.”
How can male hair loss be managed?
MPB is not preventable, because it is determined by genetic factors. Scientists believe that it is triggered when cells in the skin of the scalp convert testosterone into another hormone called dihydrotestosterone (DHT). In men with a genetic predisposition that makes the hair follicles more sensitive to DHT, the follicles will gradually begin to shrink and die.
This will lead to receding around the temples, followed by thinning at the crown, and the remaining hair may become fine and fuzzy. It can result in complete baldness, but this process usually takes 15 to 20 years.
There are many products that claim to produce dramatic results to restore thinning hair, but there are currently only two approved medicines in the UK that have been proved to be safe and effective in clinical trials: minoxidil and finasteride. They are not available on the NHS but can be bought cheaply online after a short consultation with a pharmacist.
Finasteride works by inhibiting the production of DHT to slow down the damage to the hair follicles. The treatment is best started as soon as you notice the first signs of hair loss, before the follicles have had a chance to die off completely.
Lifestyle choices may slow down the rate of MBP
The condition and fullness of our hair depends on a number of factors, including a good supply of oxygen and blood to the scalp, and also the right nutrients. Men may be able to reduce the impact of impending baldness through eating well, avoiding smoking, and treating their hair gently with no harsh products or styling tools.
Mulgrew explains: “While most men will inevitably experience hair thinning and loss as they age, there are some steps you can take to slow down the process, for example, managing stress levels.”
He continues: “Proper blood circulation to the scalp ensures hair follicles receive the oxygen and nutrients they need to stay healthy. A good way of promoting this is through regular scalp massage; even just a few minutes per day can make a difference. Smoking, however, reduces blood flow to the scalp, and can consequently contribute to hair loss.
“It is also important to maintain a balanced diet rich in essential vitamins and minerals like biotin, zinc, and iron, which support overall hair health. Lastly, using gentle hair care products and avoiding harsh treatments can prevent further damage and maintain hair thickness.”
Hair loss is a normal process for most men and not usually the sign of a medically serious problem. However, it can affect men’s self-esteem and confidence, making them become more withdrawn and socially isolated or depressed. It can also make them more at risk of sunburn on the scalp, so it’s advisable to wear a hat or use sunscreen every day.
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