Androgenetic alopecia: causes and characteristics

Androgenetic alopecia: causes and characteristics

Androgenetic alopecia (or male and female pattern baldness) is the most common form of hair loss and affects both men and women. This chronic condition is associated with genetic predisposition and hormonal changes, particularly the effects of androgens (male sex hormones).

Causes of androgenetic alopecia
The main cause of androgenic alopecia is the increased sensitivity of hair follicles to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), the active form of testosterone. This hormone causes the follicles to shrink, resulting in thinning of the hair follicles and a shorter hair life cycle. Over time, the hair becomes thinner and shorter, and its growth slows, ultimately leading to hair loss.

In men, androgenetic alopecia manifests as bald patches on the forehead and crown, often leading to widespread baldness. In women, hair loss is more uniform and usually begins at the crown, resulting in a more diffuse decrease in hair density. This process often begins around age 40, but can also occur at younger ages.

Characteristic signs
Androgenetic alopecia in men often begins with thinning hair at the temples or forehead, gradually expanding into bald patches. Over time, the process can progress and hair loss can begin across the entire crown of the head, resulting in a large bald patch.

In women, hair loss occurs more evenly. Hair becomes thinner and sparser across the entire scalp, but a traditional bald patch usually doesn't develop. Hair loss most commonly begins to progress in women after age 40, but earlier cases can occur, especially if there is a genetic predisposition.

Effect of hormones
Male sex hormones, or androgens, play a key role in the development of androgenetic alopecia. These hormones also play an important role in women, as their levels can also affect hair condition. Elevated testosterone levels or its active form, dihydrotestosterone, contribute to the deterioration of hair follicles and a reduction in their viability.

Genetic predisposition
Androgenetic alopecia is usually inherited. If one parent suffers from hair loss, there's a high probability that their child will also suffer from a similar condition. Furthermore, a hereditary predisposition can manifest differently in men and women depending on the genes inherited from the parents.

Psychological aspects
In addition to the physiological effects, androgenetic alopecia can also have psychological repercussions. This is especially true for women, for whom hair loss is often associated with a loss of attractiveness. This can lead to low self-esteem, depression, and other emotional difficulties. It's important to note that hair loss can also be an emotionally challenging process for men, as hair is often associated with youth and energy.

Diploma
Androgenetic alopecia is a condition that affects appearance and well-being and affects both men and women. Understanding the causes and signs of this process can help you seek help in a timely manner and choose the right strategy to combat hair loss. Regardless of the stage of the disease, however, it's important to remember that maintaining a healthy lifestyle, a balanced diet, and hair care can play an important role in slowing the progression of alopecia.