We get it: hair loss can be slightly scary. However, some hair loss is an entirely normal part of the hair growth cycle, with the NHS stating that the average person loses around 50 to 100 strands daily. So, that begs the question: how much hair loss is normal, and when should you start taking action? In this article, we’ll delve into that question and more. Let’s take a look.
The hair growth cycle
As mentioned previously, hair shedding is a healthy part of the growth cycle, which can be distilled into four main stages. We’ve gone into some more detail below:
Anagen (growth phase)
During the Anagen phase, follicles will generate hair strands that continue to grow until reaching the transition phase.
Catagen (transition phase)
After growth has finished, hair strands begin to separate from follicles while remaining in place.
Telogen (resting phase)
Throughout the Telogen phase, hair strands don’t grow and follicles begin the production of new strands.
Exogen (shedding phase)
Finally, these new strands push through the follicles, dislodging the old hair. This results in the shedding you see on a daily basis.
How does male pattern hair loss occur?
Male pattern hair loss occurs when the hormone DHT (a by-product of testosterone) disrupts this hair growth cycle. In men with a particular sensitivity to DHT, hair follicles start to shrink after being cut off from vital nutrients supplied by the blood. The result is thinner hair and the eventual death of follicles, which leads to male pattern hair loss.
For those who wish to treat male pattern hair loss, Finasteride and Minoxidil are the only medications scientifically proven to limit the impact of male pattern hair loss and encourage regrowth.
Finasteride
Finasteride blocks the production of DHT, giving follicles the chance to recover. This medication is usually taken once a day as an oral tablet.
Minoxidil
Minoxidil works by increasing blood flow and oxygen to the scalp, which nourishes hair follicles and aids their recovery.
When combined, these two medications have been proven to increase the chances of regrowth and slow the harm done to hair follicles.
When should you be concerned about hair loss?
While hair loss is expected in most circumstances, men may notice instances when hair loss becomes particularly excessive. These can include:
- More hair than usual on your hands after shampooing
- Irregular amounts of hair on your pillow
- Increased scalp sensitivity to the sun
- An evident receding hairline
- Slower than usual hair growth
These instances can be clear signs of male pattern hair loss, which impacts 42% of men aged between 18 and 49. While hair loss can be disconcerting, there’s no need to panic. In fact, there are direct steps you can take to limit your hair loss and potentially generate regrowth.
If any of these points are familiar to you, it’s always best to consult a professional to help you take action on your hair loss.
Discover a hair loss treatment suited to you
For many guys across the UK, hair loss has become a taboo topic, but taking action can drastically improve your chances of regrowth. Sons’ free consultation connects you with an independent prescriber, capable of finding a treatment plan perfect for you.
All of our blog articles are reviewed by our Medical Director before publication.
