Hair loss in men: how to combat it?

Many people experience hair loss at some point in their lives. Studies show that men are more affected by this problem than women. In this article we will understand the symptoms, the causes and, of course, we will discover the possible solutions to combat hair loss. 

At a certain period of life, hair changes are inevitable in men. Sometimes they start very early, sometimes very late, but unfortunately this depressing phenomenon is almost unavoidable for most men.

The first signs of hair loss in men

Before understanding the reasons for hair loss and finding possible solutions, it is essential to know and identify the first signs.

On average, each person has between 100,000 and 150,000 hairs on their scalp and loses between 50 and 100 hairs per day. This is a perfectly natural phenomenon if, for example, a few hairs fall out while brushing, after a shower or on the pillow. You have to start worrying when it comes to, in scientific terms, alopecia. What are the signs? 

Pay attention, if you notice: 

• Changes in your hairline – look especially at the forehead area as in men, hair loss is usually visible mainly on the forehead and hairline, reminiscent of the letter M. 
• Loss of hair volume or thickness of individual strands. This is hair that is becoming thin. This can happen gradually or quickly. 
• Regular or lumpy hair loss in a specific area of your head. This can occur especially during brushing.
• Slow hair growth. If your hair starts to grow more slowly than usual, it is probably the first signs of baldness. 

Causes of male hair loss 

Alopecia or male pattern baldness is an individual problem and each case is unique. There are various reasons why men lose their hair. Here is a list of the main factors that can explain this common phenomenon. 

• Heredity and genetics
• Stess or psychological shock
• Diet
• Taking certain medications
• Seasonal changes
• Environmental factors
• Hormonal changes

Heredity and genetics

Genes are the first common factor in hair loss. If you have a family history of hair loss, if your father or grandfather went bald, there is a good chance that you will also experience baldness.

Unfortunately, it can appear very early, as early as 18-19 years old. 

First the hair growth becomes very slow, the hair thins and then the scalp becomes bald. The first signs are visible on the forehead and the top of the head. 

Stress or psychological shock

It is no secret that stress is bad for your health. Therefore, hair loss can also be caused by stress or psychological shock, as they impact on the cellular level and on the hair follicles. It is a phenomenon called telogen effluvium, when hair loss is faster than hair growth. 

Inappropriate lifestyle

If you smoke heavily, lack sleep or eat an unbalanced diet, then you may be in the risk group for baldness. Excess nicotine or alcohol causes hair loss. To make up for the lack of protein, which is essential to promote hair growth, it is recommended that you eat meat and other sources of protein. This will help you to minimise the rate of hair loss.

Hygiene is also very important. People who do not wash their hair regularly or who often wear caps and hats are mainly affected by hair loss. The reason for this is obvious: the hair does not breathe. 

Medical conditions and certain medications

Certain medications and treatments can cause hair loss and baldness. In most cases, the hair grows back after the treatment, but the thickness is not always the same. 

Seasonal changes

Environmental changes have a direct impact on our bodies. At certain times of the year, especially during the transition from summer to winter, the rate and speed of the hair renewal cycle changes, resulting in aggressive hair loss. Other environmental factors such as air or water pollution can also become the cause of hair loss.

 Hormonal changes

Male hormones have a strong impact on the scalp. Any hormonal change can be visible on the hair.

Prevention and treatment of hair loss 

If hair loss is not caused by genetics, and if it is simply a question of a poor lifestyle, it is very easy to limit it. In this case, it is necessary to adopt a balanced diet and to accompany them by a daily contribution of iron, zinc, magnesium, or vitamin B. Don’t forget that omega-3 must be present in your diet if your goal is hair regrowth. Try to get a good night’s sleep. Avoid excess nicotine and alcohol! 

As one of the reasons for hair loss is stress, it is important to limit it. How can you do this? By practising regular physical activity. Meditation is also a very good idea. 

Consult a dermatologist to find the products that correspond to your needs, as there are specific shampoos, lotions and serums against hair loss. In the meantime, avoid aggressive products and shampoos. The doctor may also suggest food supplements or medication. 

There are also radical treatments. Mesotherapy consists of injecting active ingredients into the scalp to help regrow hair. The other radical treatment is carboxytherapy, which uses sterile medical carbon dioxide to oxygenate the scalp and thus contribute to good blood circulation. Sometimes these two treatments are applied together for a faster and more visible result. 

In summary, to combat hair loss, you should

• Eat a healthy, balanced diet rich in iron, zinc, magnesium, protein, vitamin B and omega-3
• limit the use of nicotine and alcohol
• get enough sleep 
• control stress 
• wash your hair regularly as dust, oil and dirt may contribute to hair loss
• avoid harsh products and shampoos
• consider radical treatments or plastic surgery