Balding is a condition of having no hair or reduced hair, especially on the head. Common causes for balding include aging, skin conditions and the intake of certain medications, low levels of nutrition, high stress levels, and genetic factors. Balding due to an inherited genetic disorder is generally referred to as Androgenic Alopecia. This condition is also known as Male Pattern Baldness where you are more likely to experience hair loss as an adult if the genes responsible for hair loss were present at the time you were born.
Male-pattern balding is the most widespread type of balding in men. This is directly due to a single dominant autosomal gene. It generally begins at the temples and gradually moves away to form an "M" shape on the head. The hair at the top of the head will start to thin out. Over time, you will be left with a horseshoe-shaped pattern of hair around your head. In certain cases, a thinning hairline or bald spots can occur on the crowns of the head. The remaining hair in the balding areas changes from long, thick, and pigmented hair to fine, un-pigmented sprouts growing at a slower rate. If you are a man starting to lose your hair during your mid-teen years, there probably is a good chance you will become completely bald at the top of the head.
On the other hand, female-pattern baldness is generally caused by aging, genetic vulnerability, and levels of endocrine hormones commonly known as androgens. This type of hair loss generally starts around the age of 30 and becomes more obvious at the age of 40. It can get even more evident after menopause. Female-pattern baldness makes the hair thin out all over the head, but very rarely progresses to complete baldness such as in the case of male baldness.
Although hair loss in men is not considered a serious problem, it can affect self-confidence and self-esteem. Hair loss should not be a reason to stay away from the spotlight. There are treatments for hair loss, and it is advisable to consult an experienced doctor for safe results. Talk to Dr. Reese today and learn how your hair loss condition can be treated.