Hair loss causes normally fall into two categories: those that are temporary and those that are permanent. Temporary causes are usually illness-related or a side effect of cancer treatments. One the permanent end of the spectrum is pattern baldness.
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Male pattern baldness, the leading cause of hair loss in men, is usually the result of genetics or sex hormones.
According to online resource Genetics Home Reference, male pattern baldness is characterised by loss in a well-defined pattern, beginning above both temples.
“Over time, the hairline recedes to form a characteristic ‘M’ shape,” it says.
While genetics may seem like a dead end, research suggests that you can inhibit the sex hormone that causes male pattern baldness.
As Hairguard, an online resource for hair loss, explains: “Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) is a sex hormone converted from testosterone by the enzyme known as 5α-reductase.”
“Men with a genetic predisposition to male-pattern baldness, however, are sensitive to DHT in the scalp.”
Research has shown that certain natural substances decrease the activity of 5α-reductase that spurs on DHT, thereby halting male pattern baldness.
Ecklonia cava, a type of algae that grows in parts of Asia, has been shown to perform this function.
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When applied topically, Ecklonia cava was shown to inhibit 5-alpha-reductase up to 61.5 percent, research published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences shows.
Even more encouraging, though, was the inhibition results of the polyphenol extract dieckol, which is found in abundance within the algae.
Another study compared Ecklonia cava extract to the main drug treatments for hair loss – finasteride and minoxidil.
The research found that Ecklonia cava extract led to an increase in the size, depth and length of hair follicles.
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Whereas the hair follicles of the control group were still in the telogen (resting) stage, those in the Ecklonia cava and minoxidil treated groups were in the anagen (growing) stage.
Other tips for treating hair loss
Essential oils have also encouraged hair growth in several studies.
Research published in the Toxicological Research journal suggests peppermint oil can help with hair growth.
Furthermore, a study found that rosemary leaf extract improved hair regrowth in mice.
Some wigs are also available on the NHS, but you may have to pay unless you qualify for financial help.
Psychological support
If your hair loss is causing you distress, your GP may be able to help you get some counselling, says the NHS.
You may also benefit from joining a support group, or speaking to other people in the same situation on online forums.
Try these online support groups:
- Alopecia UK
- Alopecia Awareness
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