Male pattern alopecia is a condition in which there is a loss of hair. There are many types of alopecia but this is the most common. It is also termed androgenic alopecia. It is characterized by thinning of hair on the top of the head as well as by the sides. Hair may be lost totally leaving one bald. Male pattern baldness also occurs in women. In this instance, thinning arises and baldness does not occur.

This condition is thought to be brought about by androgens. These are hormones that play essential roles in the development of the body of both sexes. There is one particular androgen that has been pinpointed, namely Di hydro testosterone (DHT). This hormone is responsible for the development of male characteristics before birth. Its presence is also essential during puberty. DHT is formed from the conversion of unbound testosterone by 5-alpha-reductase. This is an enzyme found in the prostrate as well as the scalp. Testosterone is normally bound by a sex hormone binding globulin. However, if there are low levels of the globulin and high levels of testosterone, there is more of the sex hormone that can be converted to DHT. Because of the few functions that DHT has, it tends to bind to hair follicles. This reduces the capacity of the follicles to absorb nutrients vital for growth and development. The health of the hair is affected such that it may shrink or shrivel up. It will then begin to fall off without being replaced. Continuous falling of the hair will lead to baldness.

It is suspected that male pattern alopecia may also be as a result of genetics. Research is still ongoing as to whether it is connected to the mother or the father or whether there are generation gaps. There is a strong belief that the X chromosome is largely responsible for alopecia. Both of the chromosomes of a female have to have defects in order for the condition to develop.

Male pattern alopecia can be treated. There are medications that are available to stop the loss of hair and increase hair growth. Medications such as keto conazole as well as Dutastride may be used to inhibit the action of the 5 alpha reductase enzymes. Other medications bind to the enzyme and or inhibit the action of DHT on the hair follicles like Finasteride. There are also herbal based medications, like saw palmetto, which can also be used in the treatment of baldness.

It is important to eat healthy, as diet may play a role in reducing hair loss. Exercise is good for increasing the sex hormone binding globule by reducing insulin which regulates it. The higher the levels of the globule means there are fewer testosterone hormones that are not bound which can be converted to DHT. Steroids should be avoided, as they increase the levels of testosterone in the body. Stress is also a contributor to baldness and it is wise to reduce stress levels to a minimum.