How does heredity play a part in hair loss?

Genetic hair loss occurs in a pattern and is transmitted from one generation to the next. Technically, genetic hair loss is caused by dihydrotestosterone (DHT) that works together with hair follicles which are genetically vulnerable to their effects. By assessing your family’s history of baldness, it is easy to tell if your hair follicles will be exposed. Although this may not always be exact, it can often be an excellent sign as to whether or not you will lose your hair, as well as how much and where the balding might take place.

Typically, baldness is related with aging as the change in hormones within the body causes genetic hair loss, which tend to occur later in life. In some families, genetic baldness can begin to take place even when a person has reached their early 20s.

Men tend to suffer from genetic hair loss more than women. The cause of genetic hair loss is more visible in the male system because the hormone dihydrotestosterone (DHT) is formed as a by-product of testosterone. This hormone breaks down genetically sensitive hair follicles and creates baldness. This condition characterized by hair loss, recedes from the hairline but leaves healthy hair on the back and sides of the head. By the age of 50, approximately 50 percent of men will experience this type of hair loss pattern.

Testosterone is found in the female body too, although at lower levels. So women too can experience genetic hair loss and hair thinning as they age. The more common signs of genetic hair loss in female pattern baldness are the thinning of the hair or bald patches on the head. By the age of 50, approximately 40 percent of all women will experience this type of hair loss.

Whether genetic hair loss affects a man or a woman, the results can be emotionally bothersome. It can cause feelings of a loss of sex appeal and youth, and also make you feel less attractive. If you feel this way due to genetic baldness, the sooner your hair is treated, the better the results you will get. Talk to Dr. Reese today to find your solution.