If you have been experiencing hair loss, you’re not alone. As per reports in 2020 and 2023, around 50% of men and 20-30% women in India are reported to have hair loss, and for most, it is very early in life (mid-20s). Just like how men and women have their differences, their hair loss also varies. That’s right, if you are a woman, you may experience a different pattern of hair loss than men. But how do they differ and what treatments are available for hair loss in men and women? Keep reading and you will learn.
Table of Contents
- What is hair loss
- Why hair loss happens
- What is androgenetic alopecia
- Key differences of male and female pattern baldness
- Treatments available for female and male pattern baldness
- Conclusion
To know the difference between these hair loss types, first let’s understand what is hair loss.
What is Hair Loss
Hair loss describes itself; the loss of hair from your scalp is generally called hair loss. If you have already been losing a few strands of your hair every day, then it is not a matter of concern. This is considered okay, but anything more than 100 or 200 strands in a day is a sign of hair loss that needs attention.
Why Hair Loss Happens
Now that you know what hair loss is, do you know why it happens?
Hair loss is caused by a variety of reasons, including:
-
- Genetics
- Environmental factors like pollution, water changes, harsh UV rays, extreme temperature, etc.
- Hormonal changes due to stress, childbirth, weightloss, etc.
- Using haircare products that contain harmful chemicals and also regularly using heat styling tools.
In this blog, we are going to focus on the type of hair loss that is caused by a genetic condition–androgenetic alopecia.
What is Androgenetic Alopecia
Everyone has genes that are passed on from one generation to another, along with it, the various conditions too. Androgenetic Alopecia is nothing but a hair loss condition that affects women and men, causing hair loss. The variations in the androgen receptor gene is among the reasons behind hair loss in men. But both experience different types of hair loss, which is also known as male pattern baldness and female pattern baldness.
Key Differences of Male and Female Pattern Baldness
| Differences | Male Pattern Baldness | Female Pattern Baldness |
|---|---|---|
| Common Age it Happens | Can start as early as late teens or early 20s | More common after menopause but can start in the 30s or 40s |
| Rate of Progress | Faster and more aggressive, leading to baldness | Slower rate and thinning of hair over time |
| Cause | Genetics and influence of dihydrotestosterone (DHT) | Genetic and hormonal changes like a drop in estrogen levels |
| Pattern of Hair Loss | Starts with a receding hairline (m-shaped) and causes bald spots on the crown | Even thinning of hair across the scalp, especially at the crown, without a receding hairline |
| Visibility of Scalp | Visible bald patches or full baldness in later stages of hair loss | Total baldness is rare, but the scalp may become more visible |
| Impact of Hair Follicles | Hair follicles shrink, leading to thinner and shorter hair strands | Hair follicles shrink but do not stop producing hair |
| Affects The Hairlines? | Yes. The hairline recedes from the temples and forehead | Less noticeable changes to the hairline |
| Hormonal Influence | Strongly linked to DHT, which shortens the hair growth cycle | Estrogen levels can influence more, which happens after menopause |
| Psychological Impact | Self-esteem issues | Emotional distress |
Treatments Available for Female and Male Pattern Baldness
| Treatments Available | For Men | For Women |
|---|---|---|
| Minoxidil (Topical Treatment) | Minoxidil foam or other topical solution applied to the scalp can slow hair loss and promote regrowth | Minoxidil topical solution after menopause |
| Finasteride (Oral Medication) | Blocks DHT to slow hair loss and encourage regrowth | Finasteride is not prescribed for women due to hormonal side effects, even during pregnancy |
| Platelet-rich Plasma Therapy (PRP) | Injecting plasma from the patient’s blood into the scalp for hair growth | Help in improving hair density and reduces hair shedding |
| Hormonal Therapy | Not applicable for women | Estrogen-based therapies can slow hair loss after menopause |
| Nutritional Supplements | Supplements like biotin, zinc, and iron can help prevent hair thinning | Iron and vitamin D supplements are often recommended for women |
| Hair Transplant Surgery | Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE) and Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT) can help restore lost hair | Hair transplant is rarely prescribed for women because hair thinning is less |
| Lifestyle Changes | Reducing stress, eating a balanced diet, and scalp massage supports hair and scalp health | Similar lifestyle changes can improve hair thickness |
Conclusion
In conclusion, male and female pattern baldness are both forms of androgenetic alopecia, causing hair loss, but they differ in onset, progression, and patterns, requiring customized treatments for each gender. Consulting an expert like Dr. Shahid Shamsher, a leading specialist for hair fall treatment in Bangalore, can help you find the best solution to manage and restore hair health effectively.
Dr. Shahid Shamsher is one of India’s first certified Trichologist practicing in the field of Trichology for 27 years and is recognized as one of the Best Hair Doctor in Bangalore. He is the only Trichologist in India to be simultaneously certified from the U.K, Australia, and India.
Dr. Shahid Shamsher is one of India’s first certified Trichologist practicing in the field of Trichology for 27 years and is recognized as one of the Best Hair Doctor in Bangalore. He is the only Trichologist in India to be simultaneously certified from the U.K, Australia, and India.
