Alopecia (also known as hair loss) is common as we age and the pattern of hair loss differs for males and females.  Hair loss in males is a well-defined pattern, beginning above both temples and the hairline recedes with time, to form a characteristic ‘M’ shape (see below).  The hair also thins at the top of the head (known as the crown).  Finally, the hair loss progresses to partial baldness (leaving behind hair above the ears and back) and eventually to complete baldness.  The female-pattern of hair loss is different in that the hair becomes thinner all over the head, but rarely leads to total baldness.  

Causes

• Ageing is the most common cause as our hair gets thinner, more brittle and fall out more easily
• Hormonal changes such as pregnancy and menopause (in women)
• Thyroid disorders such as hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism
• Medications such as chemotherapy
• Mental stress
• Excessive chemical or hair treatment to the scalp
• Vitamin and nutrition deficiency in starvation or eating disorders

Prevention

Although most baldness is not preventable, here are some tips which may help reduce rate of hair loss;

• Be gentle with your hair and avoid excessive force when brushing or combing
• Avoid harsh hair treatments such as curling irons, hair dyes or chemical perms
• Reduce the amount of tension on your hair such as using rubber bands or having tight braids
• Reduce your hair exposure to direct sunshine or chlorine (from swimming pools) 
• Eat healthy meals with fresh ingredients
• Avoid highly salted or refined food with lots of preservatives
• Avoid exposure to cigarette smoke or stop smoking if you do smoke

Medications or Supplements

Your doctor or pharmacist may recommend the following medications or supplements.  It may take up to 3-6 months before you can see any improvement while they may not work in some people;

• Multivitamin supplements such as Vitamins A, B, C, D, iron, Omega-3 fatty acids, Zinc, Selenium and Biotin 
• Minoxidil in liquid, foam or shampoo form
• Alpha-reductase enzyme inhibitors such as Finasteride (Propecia) and Dutasteride (Avodart)

Procedures

A dermatologist or hair specialist may recommend the following treatments;

• PRP treatment to the scalp
• Hair transplant where hair from the side or back of your head is removed and transplanted (also known as grafting) to the bald areas.  On average around 10-15,000 micro-grafts may be required

Discuss the treatment options with your doctor or pharmacist

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