WHY DO MEN LOSE MORE HAIR THAN WOMEN?

WHY DO MEN EXPERIENCE MORE HAIR LOSS THAN WOMEN?

It primarily has to do with hormones and genetics.

We all know that men produce more testosterone than women. But not many know that testosterone converts into a different hormone that directly attacks the hair follicle. This hormone is known as DHT: Dihydrotestosterone. This is generally why we see more men losing hair than women. Their large production of testosterone converts to DHT, which attacks the follicle. Since women produce less testosterone naturally, there are fewer hormones produced which could potentially be converted into DHT. This is why women experience hair loss differently than men and require a different treatment plan.

WHAT IS DHT, AND HOW DOES IT AFFECT MY HAIR?

Interestingly enough, DHT is a male sex hormone that is responsible for hair growth, including body hair and facial hair… but works oppositely with hair on the scalp. Instead of helping the hair on your head grow, it directly attacks it. Increased or excess amounts of DHT affect the hair follicles themselves. This hormone increase can affect the hair’s growth cycles and the effectiveness of the follicles on the scalp. Increased DHT can cause the hair follicles to become smaller in size, thus taking longer for your hair to grow or causing the hair to grow thinner and/or shorter than previously, and eventually, not at all. 

GENETICS AND DHT

In addition to producing DHT, individuals are predisposed to hair loss based on their genetics. Some individuals will experience the effects of DHT more than others due to hereditary factors. This is where pattern baldness comes into play. Genetics may be the cause if your family members are balding at the temples, hairline, or crown, and you begin to see your hair follow suit. Interestingly, hereditary hair loss can be passed down from anyone in the gene pool.  Even if your immediate family has retained most of their hair, someone in your ancestry may have passed the propensity for hair loss to you.

BEYOND DHT

Before you immediately think your hair loss is because of DHT overproduction, DHT is not the only reason for hair loss or balding in men and women. There are several other medical conditions/life factors which could be contributing to your hair loss. This is why we advise against ordering any over-the-counter quick-fix hair supplements without a proper assessment. If your DHT levels are not the problem, you would be wasting money buying/taking a DHT blocker and putting your hormonal health at risk. Always consult with your doctor (or ours!) before taking any medications and supplements.

OK, SO WHAT CAN I DO ABOUT MY HAIR LOSS?

Luckily, there are many options available to treat hair loss. At The Saratoga Hair Center, we work with patients individually to find a treatment plant which best suits their needs. Ranging from surgical to non-surgical options, we have you covered. Fill out the form here to get more information on hair restoration. Or call us today at 518-581-1872 to speak with a patient care coordinator about the next steps.