The Causes of Hair Loss

Very few people, especially those suffering from alopecia, or balding, know that Julius Cesear and Napolean both dealt with hair loss. Yes, it's a fact; balding is part of our genetics, our history and our future. It's here to stay, for now at least. In the meantime, it's best to understand alopecia and learn about the condition so as not to feel the embarrassment usually associated with balding; it's a normal occurrence.

Male pattern hair loss, also known by the term Androgenetic Alopecia, is a genetic condition. Another, not so common fact is Andorgenetic Alopecia is not just restricted to males; females also experience this type of hair loss. In the past, the general consensus was that the genes were inherited from the mother's side. However, new research is finding that it can be passed on from either mother or father.

In addition to genetics, the condition is associated with hormones and age. As a person ages, male or female, the hair follicles become more susceptible to a normal chemical reaction. The reaction occurs when testosterone is exposed to an enzyme called 5-alpha reductase. The resulting product is DHT.

DHT is known for its role in male pattern balding and increased growth of ear and nose hairs. In women the levels of 5-alpha reductase are lower, thereby decreasing the amount of hair loss experienced in the head region for women.

Alopecia can be caused by other reasons as well. Chemotherapy patients usually lose their hair although many times it will eventually return. In some cases, stress will trigger hair loss. Stress may be mental, emotional or physical - the body senses a need to reserve all of its energy for survival and thus decreases hair growth which is unnecessary to staying alive. In these instances, the hair usually returns once the stress factor has been removed.

In some cases, hair loss can signal the first sign of a major disease. As such, hair loss that does not follow the normal horseshoe shape of male pattern balding should be looked at closely and followed up with a doctor or health care provider.

About the author: Rachel Dayer runs and operates MustAsk Network , a health related portal.

Author: Rachel Dayer

How to achieve natural hair transplant results

Today, when done right, hair transplant surgery can produce results that are so natural that even hair stylists cannot detect them. But the key is finding the right hair restoration physician.

It’s tough deciding who to choose. They all claim to provide natural and safe results. But in reality their skill, experience and talent vary widely, as do the end results.

Where to find and learn about outstanding hair restoration surgeons

It’s easy to find physicians offering hair transplants in any phone book or online directory. But to find the minority who provide truly natural and outstanding hair transplant results we recommend the following online resources:

  • Hair Loss Learning Center – This multimedia site provides extensive and in-depth information about hair loss causes and cures. It is sponsored by the Coalition of Independent Hair Restoration Physicians. This elite group of surgeons is committed to excellent patient education and results.
  • Hair Transplant Network – This long time community provides recommendations for over 50 of the world’s leading hair transplant surgeons. This site also hosts the world’s largest gallery of patient before and after photos.

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  • How to achieve natural hair transplant results

    Today, when done right, hair transplant surgery can produce results that are so natural that even hair stylists cannot detect them. But the key is finding the right hair restoration physician.

    It's tough deciding who to choose. They all claim to provide natural and safe results. But in reality their skill, experience and talent vary widely, as do the end results.

    Where to find and learn about outstanding hair restoration surgeons

    It's easy to find physicians offering hair transplants in any phone book or online directory. But to find the minority who provide truly natural and outstanding hair transplant results we recommend the following online resources:

    • Hair Loss Learning Center – This multimedia site provides extensive and in-depth information about hair loss causes and cures. It is sponsored by the Coalition of Independent Hair Restoration Physicians. This elite group of surgeons is committed to excellent patient education and results.
    • Hair Transplant Network – This long time community provides recommendations for over 50 of the world’s leading hair transplant surgeons. This site also hosts the world’s largest gallery of patient before and after photos.
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