There are many conditions that contribute to or cause hair loss, but the most common cause, by far, is androgenetic alopecia—or male pattern baldness.

Androgenetic alopecia is hair loss that is caused by a combination of genetics and hormones. It affects both sexes and is responsible for approximately 95 percent of hair loss in men and thinning in women. It starts at puberty, may not be noted for many years, and progresses over many years. The hair loss that is seen on the top of the scalp has basic patterns of loss with individual variations. These were first described by Dr. Hamilton, and then by Dr. O’tar Norwood. The Norwood Classification system is most commonly used to describe “male pattern baldness.” The Ludwig Classification system is most commonly used to describe "female pattern baldness."

In androgenetic alopecia, hair on the top of the scalp is genetically programmed to thin and die when exposed to the hormone dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which is a breakdown of the natural occurring hormone testosterone. The hair on the sides and the back of the head is genetically programmed to resist the effects of DHT. Transplant surgeons realized early on that hair moved from the back of the scalp to the balding areas would grow indefinitely. This concept, called donor dominance, revolutionized the theory of surgical hair transplantation.

Treatment Options for Hair Loss
There are both medical and surgical treatment options available for androgenetic alopecia. The following describes some of the medical options available for hair loss:

Minoxidil (2% and 5%)
Minoxidil was originally used to treat hypertension and found to have beneficial effects on hair growth. When used properly, it has been found to slow down hair loss and strengthen existing hairs. It has been approved by the FDA for hair loss. Minoxidil will not resurrect dead hair follicles, however. Should living follicles be in the dying phase, minoxidil might sustain their lives for several extra months or even years. Once the medication is discontinued, though, its effects will usually disappear within six to 12 months.

Finasteride (Propecia®)
Finasteride is an oral medication that was approved by the FDA in 1997 for hair loss in men. Research determined that the hormone, dihydrotestosterone (DHT), causes hair to miniaturize. Finasteride blocks the conversion of testosterone to DHT by inhibiting the enzyme 5 alpha reductase. By limiting the amount of circulating DHT, finasteride has been shown to slow down hair loss and, in some individuals, even stimulate hair growth. Recently, the five-year data was published and finasateride was shown to be quite safe. Only 1 – 2 percent of men have had sexual side effects such as decreased libido and erectile dysfunction. A one-milligram tablet is taken daily; however, if the medication is stopped, the beneficial effects of finasteride diminish significantly.

Herbal Medications, Shampoo, and Lotions
There are many herbal medications on the market that claim beneficial effects for hair loss. The active ingredients in these medications include minoxidil or other properties that inhibit 5 alpha reductase. Apart from finasteride and minoxidil, however, none of these products is approved by the FDA. They are, therefore, not recommended by Northwest Surgical Hair Restoration.

Hair Restoration Surgery
Hair restoration surgery is the only treatment option that can restore a significant amount of real, growing hair to balding areas of the scalp. Dr. Gabel specializes in Follicular Unit Transplantation, one of the most advanced micrografting hair restoration techniques available. This technique makes use of the patient’s own natural hair to create a full, natural looking appearance that will last a lifetime. If you would like to learn more about hair restoration surgery or meet with Dr. Gabel for a free, no obligation consultation, contact Northwest Surgical Hair Restoration today. "