By Hair loss comes in different types and causes. Typically, hereditary hair loss runs in families and is normal. Both men and women experience this type of hair loss. But how will you know that hair loss is hereditary? Genetic hair loss affects your hairline up to almost the middle of the top of your scalp. This hair loss cannot be cured, but there are several things to do to help slow the thinning.
This post discusses hereditary hair loss for men and women. Hereditary hair loss starts at the templates or hairline in men and continues in an M-shaped pattern. But in women, this hair loss is less obvious but more widespread. But if you are losing hair from the back of your scalp in clumps or patches, this is then not hereditary. Instead, it would be best if you had a doctor’s attention. Keep reading.
Main Points Regarding Normal Hair Loss
- Hereditary hair loss usually runs in families. It primarily affects men, but it is also found in women.
- Hair loss affects your scalp the most, but you can also find it in other body parts.
- Suppose you suffer from a sudden hair loss, have an autoimmune ailment, have undergone chemotherapy, or the hair loss cannot be explained by genetics, you need to see the doctor.
- Genetics hair loss has no cure, but treatments will help slow or stop the hair loss.
- Hair loss is harmless. But it can be distressing if help and support are available, however.
What Causes Hereditary Hair Loss?
Your hair goes through several growth cycles and rests like your skin and nails. Hair loss can happen at any time in the process. The hair cycle has three phrases which include.
- During the first cycle, the hair in your process continuously grows. The phase is referred to as anagen. In this stage, your hair grows by about one to two centimeters each month. The cycle lasts up to five years, and the hair is about 90%.
- This stage is referred to as the catagen phase. In this stage, the growth stops. You have about 1 to 3% of scalp hair here. This typically lasts for about two to three weeks.
- The third phrase usually is referred to as telogen. It is a resting phase that lasts between one to four months. At this stage, you have about 10% scalp hair.
After the resting stage, the next phase tends to be shedding. This typically results in the growth of new hair. When your hair sheds, it will be replaced by a new hair from the same follicle beneath your skin.
Male or female genetics hair loss results from genetics or hormonal influencers. Hair loss is also referred to as androgenic alopecia. And this is because it is affected by hormones referred to as androgens. Hair loss affects both men and women differently. Suppose any of your relatives have experienced this type of hair loss. You are at risk also.
What are Hereditary Hair Loss Treatments?
Treatment for this type of hair loss is usually necessary. Hair loss can happen rapidly or early in your life, distressing. To stop or slow this hair loss, you will need the following treatments;
- Finasteride Minoxidil topical lotion
- Nutritional supplements
- Hair transplantation, wigs, or hairpieces
Male Hereditary Hair Loss
Hereditary hair loss in men is also referred to as male pattern baldness. The hair loss usually increases with the increase in your age. by the age of 50, half the population of men is affected by this condition. It usually starts when you are 30. However, it can happen at any age past puberty.
The extent of baldness you will experience will be determined by the genes you got from your parents. These genes affect the sensitivity of your scalp dihydrotestosterone (DHT) hormones. This then reduces the growth phase of your hair. The hair follicles will also become thin, responding to DHT, which will lead to fewer and finer hairs.
Female Hereditary Hair Loss
It is also referred to as female pattern baldness. What causes this hair loss type is unclear. It affects women at any age, but it is common after menopause. Usually, it starts when you reach 30 years, and you will start noticing it at 40 and more after menopause. A quarter of women experience genetic hair loss at the age of 50. Genetics and androgen hormones tend to influence this type of hair loss. Genetics hair loss leads to the creation of more delicate hair with less color. The hair in the resting phase falls out quickly.
Final Thought
Hereditary hair loss is typically a normal part of aging. But when it happens suddenly or early in life, it can be distressing. Particularly for women, it can be uncomfortable. Make sure to always talk to people that have experienced hair loss to help you feel better. Also, seek help from your doctor. They might suggest counseling sessions or refer you to a counselor. There are also several things to do to prevent this hair loss. A consultation session with a doctor will be helpful. And you will have all the answers regarding this hair loss.