Hair loss is an issue for millions of men and women, yet one of its most widespread forms is androgenetic alopecia, more commonly known as male or female pattern baldness. A progressive disease, androgenetic alopecia can have serious consequences for self-esteem as well as overall confidence. We strive at Heights Dermatology to assist patients in learning about the underlying cause of hair loss and detecting early signs so they can properly address their scalp health.
What is Androgenetic Alopecia?
Androgenetic alopecia is an inherited pattern of baldness brought about by hormonal influences, especially androgens such as dihydrotestosterone (DHT). In genetically predisposed individuals, DHT shortens the anagen phase of hair and leads to shrinking of hair follicles over time. This creates progressively finer and narrower hairs and results in irreversible hair loss.
Causes of Androgenetic Alopecia
The underlying cause of androgenetic alopecia is usually a combination of genetic predisposition and hormonal fluctuation. Androgenetic alopecia can be inherited from either of one's parents, and individuals who have hair thinning in their families usually have an increased risk. Androgenic influence is key, these hormones can impact the hair follicles in varying ways depending on genetics, resulting in shrinking of the follicles and reduced hair production.
Environmental influences, stress, inadequate diet, and some medicines can also hasten the development of androgenetic alopecia, although they do not constitute immediate causes.
Androgenetic Alopecia Symptoms
In men, androgenetic alopecia usually starts out with hairline recession and balding at the crown, which progresses to partial or total loss of hair. Women can develop an overall thinning over the scalp, primarily at the part line,though they usually do not lose their frontal hairline. In contrast to other causes of balding, androgenetic alopecia typically advances slowly, so an early diagnosis is necessary.
If you spot an increase in shedding, an enlarged hair part, or even exposed scalp sections, you should seek out a dermatologist for a professional assessment.
Contact Heights Dermatology in Houston for your Hair Health
We understand how personal and frustrating hair loss can be. Our experienced, board-certified dermatologists in Houston can diagnose whether androgenetic alopecia is affecting you and assist you in navigating next steps. Contact us today at Heights Dermatology to arrange your customized appointment and get in charge of your hair.
Heights Dermatology provides advanced treatment for androgenetic alopecia, helping slow hair thinning and promote natural regrowth with personalized care plans. Heights Dermatology also treats related conditions such as alopecia areata, hair loss, and seborrheic dermatitis to support a healthy scalp and stronger hair.
