Male Pattern Hair Loss (MPHL) options for treatment in both men and women

Male-pattern hair loss (MPHL) is a common cause of hair loss in both men and women. Also called androgenic alopecia, it begins with hair loss above the temples. With time, it continues around the top of the head, and sometimes, claims the hair on the sides and back of the head as well, leading to complete baldness. The cause of the condition is due to an underlying susceptibility of hair follicles to shrinkage, the influence of androgenic hormones, and nutritional imbalances.

If you are experiencing this and feel uncomfortable with your appearance, here are a few treatment options available.

Medicines used to treat male pattern baldness include:-

Minoxidil (Rogaine)

only topical product that is FDA-approved for androgenic hair loss, Monoxidil is widely used in hair loss treatments as it is very effective in promoting hair growth. However, hair loss returns when you discontinue this medicine. The medicine is basically a solution applied directly to the scalp to stimulate the hair follicles.

Finasteride (Propecia, Proscar):This medicine is a little more effective than Minoxidil, as it interferes with the production of a highly active form of testosterone linked to baldness. However, similar to Minoxidil, it works only when you’re using it. The drug is not recommended for pregnant women as it can cause birth defects in babies.

2. Hair Transplant

During hair transplants, tiny plugs of hair from areas where hair is continuing to grow is moved to the balding area. This procedure usually requires several sessions and may be expensive. It may also cause scarring and there is a risk of infection.

3. Hair-loss Fighting Foods

Hair loss can also be due to nutritional imbalances. A poor diet can lead to proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals deficiencies, leading to hair loss. To maintain healthy hair, consider taking the foods listed below:

• – Eat fruits and vegetables such as carrots, sweet potatoes, peppers and cantaloupe. They are packed with vitamin A or beta carotene.
• – Eat fatty fish such as salmon and sardines, packed with omega-3 fatty acids.
• – Eating yogurt and other vitamin B5-rich foods may increase blood flow to your scalp, promoting hair growth.
• – Eat enough lean meat such as chicken or turkey, low-fat dairy products and protein-rich vegetables like beans. Hair is made of a protein molecule called keratin and thus, needs dietary protein for nourishment.
• – Eat foods containing vitamin B7 such as eggs, fortified cereals, milk products and chicken, which helps promote hair growth.
• – Eat zinc-rich foods such as oysters, lobster and fortified cereals.