Exploring hair loss in men over the age of 35

It is no secret that as men age, hair loss can become a major problem; in fact, 66% of men report some form of hair loss by the age of 35! For younger men especially, hair loss can have a negative emotional impact on mood, confidence and relationships. In this blog post, we will look at the causes of hair loss, the impact it may have and treatments which can counteract hair fall.

Primary causes of hair loss
Genetics is the most significant cause of male pattern baldness. It normally happens gradually, starting with a receding hairline. There are also several other factors that can contribute to hair loss in men over the age of 35 such as lifestyle, diet and stress levels which can be optimised to help keep a full head of hair.

Here are 4 other factors relating to male balding:

1. Hormonal changes and medical conditions: Male hormones, especially testosterone, play an important role in regulating hair growth. However, the metabolite, dihydrotestosterone (DHT), can harm hair follicles, leading to hair thinning and baldness. Treatments that inhibit DHT can offer a solution to reduce the effect of DHT.

2. Stress: Stress is also a huge factor in hair thinning. Research has shown people living stressful lives are 11 times more likely to suffer with hair loss.  One may also suffer hair loss after a traumatic event but in most cases this hair loss will be temporary.

3. Exercise and lifestyle: Regular physical activity increases blood circulation, which can help deliver essential nutrients and oxygen to the hair follicles. In addition, a lack of proper nutrients, including vitamins A, C, D and E, zinc, B vitamins, iron, biotin, protein and essential fatty acids, can slow hair growth and contribute to hair loss.

4. Hairstyles and treatments: Excessive hairstyling or hairstyles that pull on your hair such as braids or cornrows, can cause a type of hair loss called traction alopecia. You can find a barber who can help advise on styling here.

We must also consider the emotional as well as the physical
As mentioned earlier, hair loss can have a profound emotional  impact on men, affecting self-esteem and confidence amongst other things. In a 2009 survey by the International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery, almost 60% of men would rather have a full head of hair than money or friends which allows us to conclude hair loss goes way beyond just physiological appearance. So, It's vital we also consider the potential emotional impact of hair loss in addition to exploring treatment options.

Restoring hair is possible without surgery
There are various non-surgical options available for men seeking to address hair loss. These may include over-the-counter minoxidil, prescription medications like finasteride and low-level laser therapy. Minoxidil especially has gained popularity as an accessible and effective solution to combat hair loss; however, there are potential side effects that may arise from its use and need to be considered before usage.

3 possible negative side effects of using Minoxidil:

1. Scalp irritation or rashes: Some users may experience mild irritation, redness or itching on the scalp, particularly during the initial stages of treatment. This reaction usually subsides as the scalp adjusts to the medication.
2. Unwanted hair growth: Minoxidil may lead to the growth of fine facial hair or hair in unintended areas of the body. This effect is more common in women than men. It happens because Minoxidil works by widening blood vessels and increasing blood flow to hair follicles, thereby promoting hair growth.
3. Systemic absorption: Minoxidil can be absorbed into the bloodstream through the scalp, leading to possible side effects such as dizziness, light headedness, chest pain or a rapid heartbeat. Although rare, if any of these symptoms occur, medical attention should be sought immediately.

        Warning: Minoxidil is not recommended for pregnant or nursing women unless advised by a healthcare professional.

A healthier alternative could be to consider a natural hair growth serum for men which can be as or even more effective than Minoxidil because not only do they block DHT, they also nourish the scalp and strengthen hair follicles. Many natural hair growth serums contain ingredients which possess anti-inflammatory properties which in turn promotes a healthy environment for hair growth. Also being free from harsh and potentially hazardous chemicals is always a bonus!

Here are 5 natural ingredients that promote hair growth:

1. Ginger: A well-known natural remedy for improving blood circulation. When applied to the scalp, it stimulates blood flow, ensuring that hair follicles receive the essential nutrients they need to thrive. This increased circulation can promote hair growth and help in reducing hair thinning.

2. Litsea glutinosa: A traditionally used in herbal medicine for its anti-inflammatory properties. It soothes the scalp, reducing irritation and inflammation, which can often lead to hair loss. By maintaining a healthy scalp environment, Litsea Glutinosa supports robust hair growth.

3. Indian gooseberry (Amla): A rich source of vitamin C and antioxidants, which are essential for hair health. Amla not only promotes hair growth but also maintains the hair’s natural colour.

4. Butterfly pea flower: Another powerhouse ingredient known for its high concentration of anthocyanins, which are antioxidants that protect hair from damage. It also enhances the natural shine of the hair and can improve hair thickness over time.

5. Sesame seed oil: Packed with essential fatty acids, vitamins and minerals that nourish the scalp and hair. It deeply moisturizes the scalp, preventing dryness and flakiness and promotes a healthy environment for hair growth.

When using a natural hair growth serum for men, it's crucial to follow the product instructions and use them as part of a comprehensive approach to hair care, including maintaining a healthy diet, managing stress levels and adopting other hair-strengthening practices to maximise efficacy.

Conclusion
Hair loss is a common concern amongst men over the age of 35, with a significant portion of the population being affected by male pattern baldness. By understanding the prevalence, causes and treatment options for hair loss, individuals can make informed decisions about managing this condition and promoting overall hair health.

If you're noticing your hair isn't as thick as it used to be, or if a receding hairline has become a concern, we have some great news for you. Our partner, Luxuriant, has developed a range of products specifically designed to tackle these issues. They're committed to helping men regain fuller, healthier hair. So if you’re on the lookout for a way to grow your hair back, Luxuriant might just have the solution you need. Why not give it a try and see how it works for you?

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For more tips on personal grooming, check out our other posts in our blog section.