Thinning hair, that one word may be painful for many of you. The concerns and doubts we all have now, it is a problem we all experience. Some people may give up and say that thinning hair is a genetic trait, that it is inevitable.
But that is a big misconception. Certainly, genetics does affect thinning hair, but it is not the only factor. There are certainly steps that can be taken to prevent and even improve Male pattern boldness (AGA), including lifestyle, diet, and scalp care. In this article, we will discuss Male pattern boldness (AGA) in detail, from its causes to countermeasures and treatments.
Together, we can take the first step toward solving the problem of thinning hair. We hope that by reading this article you will gain a deeper understanding of your own thinning hair and be inspired to take concrete action.
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Kentaro Kato, Hospital director of Osaka AGA Kato Clinic group, specializing in comprehensive hair treatment.
We specialize in cutting-edge treatments for a variety of clinically proven effective treatments for thinning hair and hair loss.
Graduated from Faculty of Medicine, Kinki University in 2001
Worked at plastic surgery of Osaka Medical and Pharmaceutical University Hospital as an anesthesiologist from 2001 to 2005.
Worked as a head of plastic surgery at major cosmetic surgery, Hair Transplant Department from 2005 to 2011.
Opened Osaka AGA Kato Clinic in 2011.
Japan Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Regular Member.
The Japanese Society for Regenerative Medicine, Regular Member.
World Academy of Anti-Aging & Regenerative Medicine, Regular Member.
What are some Male pattern boldness (AGA) measures I can take at home?
To prevent and improve Male pattern boldness (AGA), it is important not only to receive treatment at a professional medical institution, but also to take daily care of your hair at home. Below are some of the major Male boldness (AGA) measures you can take at home.
Scalp massage
Scalp massage is an easy way to improve circulation and maintain scalp health. The basic steps to perform at home are as follows;
1. First, use the fingertips of both hands to massage the entire scalp with gentle pressure.
Do not use too much force, but keep the scalp moving.
2. Next, massage the scalp with your fingers in a circular motion.
This should be moved from the front of the head to the back and then to the sides.
3. Finally, use the entire palm of your hand to rub the entire head in an enveloping manner.
These massages, when performed on a daily basis, improve blood circulation to the scalp and support healthy hair growth.
How to select and use medicated shampoo
Medicated shampoos can be an effective means of regulating the scalp environment, and the following points should be considered when choosing a medicated shampoo for Male pattern boldness (AGA)
1. Main ingredients: Make sure the product contains ingredients that are effective in
improving Male pattern boldness (AGA), such as finasteride and minoxidil.
2. Irritation: Choose products that are less irritating, such as those made from skin-friendly
ingredients or alcohol-free.
3. Hair and scalp type: Select products that match your hair type and scalp condition (dry,
oily, etc.).
When shampooing, lather the shampoo solution in your hands before applying it to your hair and massaging it into your scalp. Then rinse thoroughly and use a conditioner or treatment as needed.
Finasteride and minoxidil
Finasteride and minoxidil are drugs commonly used to treat Male pattern boldness (AGA). Finasteride normalizes the function of hair cells by inhibiting the production of DHT (a male hormone). Minoxidil, on the other hand, dilates blood vessels and stimulates hair growth. These drugs require a doctor’s prescription and should not be used at one’s own discretion, but rather by consultation at an appropriate medical institution.
What lifestyle habits should be changed to prevent Male pattern boldness (AGA)?
Prevention of Male pattern boldness (AGA) is actually hidden in our daily lives. So the first thing to consider is how to improve our daily lifestyle habits.
Lifestyle change is important to avoid regrets in the prevention and subsequent treatment of Male pattern boldness (AGA).
Stress management and Male pattern boldness (AGA)
Stress has a tremendous impact on the human body, and Male pattern boldness (AGA) is no exception. Excessive stress can increase the production of the male hormone DHT (dihydrotestosterone) in the body, resulting in disruption of the hair growth cycle and causing hair thinning. Therefore, stress management is extremely important as part of Male pattern boldness (AGA) prevention.
As a concrete measure, it is recommended that stress be dissipated by setting aside comfortable relaxation time through moderate exercise, deep breathing, and taking up hobbies. It is also important to express one’s emotions appropriately in order to avoid stress buildup.
Practicing these measures will not only help prevent Male pattern boldness (AGA), but also improve your overall health. Stress management is closely related to hair health as well as overall physical health.
Diet and Male pattern boldness (AGA)
Dietary habits are a major factor in the prevention of Male pattern boldness (AGA), which is primarily caused by the male hormone DHT (dihydrotestosterone), but DHT production can be inhibited by the proper intake of nutrients.
First, vitamin A is important for maintaining healthy scalp and hair. Consuming carotene-rich foods, such as carrots and spinach, can provide vitamin A.
Vitamin E also plays a role in stimulating blood circulation and improving oxygen supply to the scalp. Foods such as almonds and sunflower seeds can provide vitamin E.
Second, omega-3, an essential fatty acid, is known to maintain scalp health and prevent dryness and inflammation. Omega-3 can be obtained from foods such as salmon and flaxseed oil.
Biotin is another important nutrient for Male pattern boldness (AGA) prevention. Necessary for maintaining healthy hair and scalp, biotin can be obtained from foods such as liver, egg yolks, and soybeans.
Protein is also necessary for the production of keratin, the main component of hair, which maintains hair growth and strength. Protein can be obtained in large quantities from meat, fish, and legumes.
Some people believe that fatty foods cause Male pattern boldness (AGA), but this is not necessarily true. A balanced diet is of utmost importance, and moderate fat intake contributes to overall body function and the health of the scalp and hair.
Scalp care and blood circulation
Care of the scalp and promotion of blood circulation are essential elements in Male pattern boldness (AGA) prevention. To maintain a healthy scalp and hair, the following steps are recommended to be incorporated into your daily routine.
First, it is important to learn proper shampooing techniques. When shampooing, wash your hair by gently massaging it with your fingers, without using your fingernails. Also, instead of applying the nozzle directly to the scalp, use your hands to scoop water to wet the scalp to reduce irritation to the scalp. In addition, always use a rinse and conditioner after washing your hair to keep your scalp properly hydrated.
Next, scalp massage to stimulate blood circulation is also helpful. Massage improves blood flow and carries nutrients to the scalp. Massage can be effective for as little as a few minutes a day, and a gentle rubbing of the scalp is sufficient. It is also recommended to get a professional scalp massage, such as a head spa.
Finally, we must not forget to improve our lifestyle. Proper management of stress and moderate exercise can promote blood circulation throughout the body and maintain a healthy scalp.
Sleeping
Sleep is a particularly important element of lifestyle for Male pattern boldness (AGA) prevention.
Sleep is a recovery time for the entire body, and it is during this time that the body repairs and regenerates. In particular, getting enough sleep is effective in Male pattern boldness (AGA) prevention because hormone balance is regulated during deep sleep. Avoiding sleep deprivation also increases stress levels, which is important for scalp health.
Exercise
Exercise improves blood circulation in the body and contributes to carrying oxygen and nutrients throughout the body. This enables nutrients to be transported to the hair matrix cells that promote hair growth. The stress-relieving effects of exercise are also effective in preventing Male pattern boldness (AGA).
However, excessive stress from strenuous exercise and nutritional deficiencies from excessive dieting can have the opposite effect. It is important to maintain a lifestyle that includes moderate exercise and a well-balanced diet, while consulting with one’s physical condition.
Effectiveness and Limitations of various Male pattern boldness (AGA) treatments
There are a wide variety of treatments for Male pattern boldness (AGA), each with its own benefits and limitations. Below is a description of the characteristics of the main treatment methods.
It is important to choose a doctor who specializes in Male pattern boldness (AGA) treatment who can explain the possible disadvantages and other risks as well as the effectiveness of the treatment drugs.
Finasteride and minoxidil
Finasteride and minoxidil are common drugs for Male pattern boldness (AGA) treatment, and both are effective for some users. Finasteride inhibits the production of the male hormone DHT and normalizes the function of hair cells. This promotes hair growth. However, it often takes several months for the effects to appear, and the effects disappear when use is discontinued. In addition, sexual side effects have been reported in some users.
Minoxidil, on the other hand, dilates blood vessels and promotes hair growth. It is applied directly to the scalp in an application type. This treatment also maintains its effectiveness with continued use, but the effect disappears when use is discontinued. Dryness and itching of the scalp have been reported as side effects.
Hair transplantation
Hair transplantation is a procedure in which hair from the back of the patient’s own head is harvested and transplanted into thinning areas. Because the root of the transplanted hair is alive, once successful, the hair will continue to grow naturally.
However, there are limitations to hair transplantation. The amount of hair that can be transplanted depends on the amount of hair in the back of the head. In addition, the surgery is expensive and not all people can afford it. Recovery after surgery requires time, and it can take several months to a year before the effects are felt.
PRP Therapy
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy is a treatment in which platelets extracted from the patient’s own blood are concentrated and the solution is injected into the area of thinning hair. The platelets contain growth factors, which promote hair growth.
However, PRP therapy is still a new treatment method, and its effectiveness varies greatly from person to person. In addition, the treatment must be repeated every few months.
PRP (Polyplatelet Plasma) Hair Regeneration Medicine / PRPGH (Growth Hair)
Laser treatment
Laser treatment uses a low-level laser (LLLT) to irradiate the scalp to stimulate cell activation and hair growth.
However, this is also a new treatment method, and its effectiveness varies greatly from one individual to another. Laser treatment also requires having expensive treatment equipment at home or visiting a clinic on a regular basis.
Conclusion
Thinning hair, or Male pattern boldness (AGA), is an unsettling problem for men, but there is certainly a path to solving it. By understanding the causes, countermeasures, and treatments for Male pattern boldness (AGA) in this article, you will find yourself one step ahead.
It is important to evaluate your own situation objectively and have the courage to seek a professional opinion at a hair loss clinic if you feel it is necessary.
Reviewing your lifestyle and care routine is also an important part of Male pattern boldness (AGA) prevention. Please feel free to contact us so that we can help you free yourself from anxiety about thinning hair and help you take a new step forward.