Hair Restoration

Androgenetic alopecia, also known as male pattern baldness or female pattern hair loss, is a common form of hair loss that occurs due to genetic and hormonal factors. Here are some key aspects of androgenetic alopecia:  

Causes:
   – Genetics: It tends to run in families and is believed to be inherited from both parents.
   – Hormones: Androgen hormones, particularly dihydrotestosterone (DHT), play a significant role. DHT can shrink hair follicles, leading to shorter and finer hair growth cycles.  

Pattern of Hair Loss:
   – In men: Typically starts with a receding hairline and thinning at the crown. Hair loss progresses over time.
   – In women: Often involves thinning throughout the scalp rather than specific patterns like men. Women may also experience widening of the part and overall thinning.  

Symptoms:
   – Gradual thinning of hair, especially on the scalp.
   – Hair follicles become miniaturized, producing finer and shorter hairs.
   – Eventually, the affected hair follicles may stop producing hair altogether.  

Diagnosis:
   – Typically diagnosed based on the pattern of hair loss and family history.
   – Sometimes scalp biopsies or blood tests may be conducted to rule out other causes of hair loss.  

Treatment:

1. Medications:

   – Minoxidil: Topical solution or foam applied to the scalp to stimulate hair growth.    – Finasteride: Oral medication that helps reduce DHT (dihydrotestosterone) levels, which can slow hair loss.  

2. Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy:

   – Involves injecting concentrated plasma derived from your own blood into the scalp to stimulate hair follicles.  

3. Hair Transplant Surgery:

   – Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT): Strip harvesting method where a strip of scalp containing hair follicles is removed and transplanted to balding areas.
   – Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE): Individual follicular units are extracted from the donor area and transplanted to the recipient site.  

4. Laser Therapy:

   – Low-level laser devices or combs are used to stimulate hair follicles and promote hair growth.  

5. Nutritional Supplements:

   – Vitamins, minerals, and other supplements that support hair health and growth.  

6. Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP):

   – A non-surgical procedure where pigments are applied to the scalp to create the appearance of fuller hair.  

7. Hair Systems or Wigs:

   – Customized hairpieces or wigs that can cover areas of hair loss temporarily or permanently.  

8. Lifestyle and Behavioral Changes:

   – Counseling on stress management, diet, and other factors that can impact hair loss.  

Androgenetic alopecia is a chronic condition that varies in severity among individuals. Treatment options may vary depending on the clinic and the specific needs of the patient. It’s important for individuals experiencing hair loss to consult with our hair transplant surgeon, Haimesh Shah, MD in Beverly Hills to determine the most suitable treatment plan.  

To learn more, please visit us  or call us at (310) 402-2849 and we will be happy to assist you in your hair restoration journey!