Hair Loss Clinic in Singapore Explores Hair Loss in Men

See your hairline receding more and more every time you take a look in the mirror? As much as many people might nod in agreement that their hair is a symbol of pride, the truth of the matter is that there are loads of individuals in Singapore who are afflicted with hair loss at a young age. It is stipulated approximately three in ten men aged between 17 and 26 get hit with receding hairlines — and there have been instances where men as young as 15 or 16 have experienced the same. And as they grow older and reach 50 years old, there is an increased chance of suffering from this condition, with about one in two men being affected by it.

This common type of hair loss in men is known as male pattern baldness or Androgenic Alopecia. Androgenic Alopecia is also one of the most common types of hair loss in women. This condition is mainly caused by a combination of genetics and hormonal factors. And while times have changed and society has become more accepting of differences in physical appearance, receding hairlines and hair thinning on the crown of the head is still something that many have been trying to reverse.

Causes of Hair Loss in Men

As mentioned, it is a widely known fact that adult male hair loss is a condition that has a significant impact on an individual’s appearance and self-confidence. Although the consequences and after-effects are widely known, the main cause of male pattern baldness still remains widely unknown. However, genetics and hormones have been commonly linked to this condition. Underlying health conditions are also a factor that contributes to the male pattern baldness that is known to affect millions of men.

1. Genetics

It is said that men facing male pattern hair loss have their genes to blame. Some even say that there is some truth to the myth that men inherit their genes for baldness from their mothers. Where did this myth come from? From the fact that men inherit their ‘X’ chromosome from their mother and the ‘Y’ chromosome from their father. And since baldness is strongly associated with the ‘X’ chromosome, it is said to play a major role in male pattern baldness. However, experience in treating pattern baldness tells us that genes from both sides play a part in one’s genetic predisposition to this condition.

2. Lifestyle & Hormones

The hair follicles on your scalp are genetically inclined to shrink in response to a by-product of testosterone known as dihydrotestosterone, or DHT. Over the course of a man’s life, his hormone levels change and the same applies to his androgen hormones. Having high levels of DHT makes the hair follicles more sensitive to the hormone and shrink more over time, resulting in thinner hair that can eventually stop growing entirely.

Stress can also be a factor, and we all know the past few years haven’t exactly been a time of serenity. As brushes and shower drains tangle up with more fallen locks, Google searches for hair loss, hair loss shampoo and hair loss treatment visibly increased since the pandemic.

3. Underlying Health Conditions

Temporary hair loss can also be a sign of underlying medical conditions such as anaemia or even thyroid problems. Other chronic illnesses like Diabetes and Lupus also increase one’s risk for hair loss. Being diagnosed with cancer, Arthritis, depression, gout or even high blood pressure can also lead to hair loss due to specific medications that have been prescribed. 

Stages of Male Pattern Baldness

When it comes to hair loss and baldness in men, it is pivotal to note that it occurs in stages. There are seven stages of typical male pattern baldness and being aware of them can do wonders in terms of seeking early treatment. 

Stage 1: Unnoticeable hair thinning occurs in this stage, usually in the form of a thinning hairline or crown. If you suspect this may be happening,seeking professional help at hair specialist clinics in Singapore can even reverse the issue.

Stage 2: Hair thinning becomes more apparent and an M-shaped hairline slowly starts to show. You will also be able to see more of the scalp when your hair is wet or hair may not be as easy to style as it was before.  

Stage 3: Balding and hairline recession become more obvious. You might be able to detect bald spots at this stage but seeking proper treatments from a hair loss clinic can mitigate risks of irreversible hair loss. 

Stage 4: Hair loss spreads to the back of the head and bald spots will appear more prominently. The hairline may require a hair transplant to bring back the facial framing at this point.

Stage 5: U-shaped hairline at the crown of the head is formed and bald spots can be hard to cover up. Reversing hair loss can take a tad bit longer even with a treatment plan. A hair transplant is likely necessary.

Stage 6: Scalp becomes more visible and larger bald patches start to appear. Hair loss can occur at the sides of your head at this stage too.

Stage 7: Minimal hair is left at the front and there will be recession to the crown. Full-blown baldness is also common. 

Common Treatment Options to Restore Hair for Men

While there may be no cure for male pattern baldness, there are several treatment options available that can restore hair for men. Some oral and topical medications for hair growth treatment include:

1. Topical Medication

Minoxidil is a topical medication that must be applied to the scalp. With continuous application, it slows down the rate of hair loss and can even help with the growth of new hair. However, it is crucial to note that stopping its use prematurely can cause hair loss to return.

2. FUE Hair Transplant

A combination of medical and surgical therapy can prevent the worsening of any hair loss. This is where hair transplants come into the picture. FUE, also known as Follicular Unit Extraction, is a hair transplant treatment. The hair specialist will take individual hair follicles from healthy areas around the back and sides, make small incisions and implant them in places where hair is not growing.  

Keep Your Hair Healthy with Our Hair Specialist Clinic in Singapore

As seen, there are several treatments available for adult male hair loss, including medication and surgery. But just like how making some lifestyle changes, such as managing stress and eating a healthy diet can help prevent or slow down hair loss, it is important to maintain healthy hair post-treatment to prevent further hair loss. From avoiding hairstyles that pull on the hair to avoiding physical activities for a few days post-FUE hair transplant, several things have to be taken into consideration.

To understand hair loss in men and the range of hair loss treatment options available in Singapore, it is essential to visit a hair loss clinic to examine the condition and find a treatment for you. At Sage Medical, our hair specialists have helped patients in Singapore with their hair loss problems.

Contact us today to book an appointment at our hair specialist clinic in Singapore.