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Can Future Hair Loss be Predicted and What Treatments Work to Prevent it?- Sunday, July 20, 2008

Question:

I'm 22, and over the last year I have noticed that my hairline has started to recede. I appear to be a level 2 on the norwood scale of hair loss. What Can I do? Do I have to wait it out until it gets awful? Is there any way to tell how much I will lose? I had heard about hair miniaturization tests that they could possibly map out your hair loss, any word on this?

Answer:

The most common cause of hair loss is genetics and in most cases creates a balding pattern similar to the norwood scale or ludwig scale, typical of male pattern baldness (androgenic alopecia). Catching and treating hair loss early is much more effective than waiting until it becomes excessive or you are completely bald.

Male pattern baldness can be treated with topical Rogaine with minoxidil and oral Propecia containing finasteride. Rogaine, which comes both in a topical liquid or foam, can stimulate the hair follicle, stopping hair loss and facilitating hair regrowth. Propecia is the most effective hair loss fighting solution and works by inhibiting DHT, the hormone responsible for genetic balding. These two forces in combination with one another can potentially help strengthen and stimulate hair regrowth especially on those with moderately thinning hair.

Unfortunately, hair loss is mostly unpredictable and though a dermatologist can perform hair miniaturization tests (which can be helpful), he/she can only draw conclusions from your present state of baldness. The future remains unknown.  A new genetic test that may help predict early onset of female and male pattern baldness, called HairDX is also available.  It does not however, predict how far it will progress.

But at your young age and minimal amount of loss, there may be a good chance that you are a good responder to these hair loss treatment options, and at the very least, hopefully be able to prevent future balding. Be sure to speak with a physician about Propecia since it is only available with a prescription.

Bill (Falceros) - Associate Publisher of the Hair Transplant Network, the Coalition Hair Loss Learning Center, and the Hair Loss Q & A Blog.
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