Hair Loss in Men: 7 Proven Treatments & Prevention Tips

Male pattern baldness, also known as androgenetic alopecia, is an inherited trait. It affects more than half of men over the age of 50.

Thinning hair is a natural part of getting older. And men tend to lose their hair more quickly and more noticeably than women.

Sometimes, hair loss occurs because of factors that are beyond your control, such as hormonal problems, genetics, or illness. But other times, your hair can become brittle, damaged, and prone to breakage, leading to visible hair loss. You may be able to prevent some hair loss and damage by taking steps to keep your hair and scalp healthy, such as taking dietary supplements, healthy scalp treatment, altering your hair care regimen, or seeking professional help to promote healthy hair growth. Follow these 10 tips to boost your chances in the battle of the bald.

Do quit smoking and save your hair

There’s a clear link between lighting up and how fast male-pattern baldness gets worse. So if you’re looking for one more good reason to quit, add early hair loss to the list.

Do adopt a balanced diet

A well-balanced diet can keep your hair in tip-top shape. Make sure you’re including a variety of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, unsaturated fats, and lean proteins in your diet, and limit your intake of sweets. Certain vitamins and minerals found in food are associated with healthy hair. Try adding in these types of foods:

iron-rich foods, including lean beef, beans, green leafy vegetables, iron-fortified grains, and eggs
foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such salmon, mackerel, tuna, flax seeds, egg yolks, hemp seeds, and walnuts
high-protein foods, like eggs, lean meats, and seafood Last but not least, make sure you’re drinking plenty of water.

Do limit brushing for healthy hair

Dermatologists say that vigorous grooming of your hair — such as following the old recommendation to brush it 100 strokes every night — can damage your hair and cause it to break off. If you excessively brush your hair and it appears thin or shaggy, try limiting how much you brush your hair. Often, the best way to improve the health of your hair is to leave it alone as much as possible.

Do consider scalp massage

Massaging stimulates hair growth by unclogging the hair follicle from dead skin; and increasing blood flow encouraging healthy hair growth. Gently put pressure around your scalp with your fingertips. This helps blood flow more easily to the follicles and promotes hair growth.

Try using castor oil to moisturize your hair and get your blood flowing at the same time. Both may help you grow more and thicker hair.

Do get a professional hair and scalp analysis

Sometimes, it can be difficult to determine why your hair is falling out — and therefore, how to treat or prevent hair loss. In addition to reviewing your medical history and asking about lifestyle factors that may be affecting the health of your hair, a dermatologist can perform a professional hair and scalp analysis to help determine the cause of your hair loss. Your dermatologist will carefully study your hair and scalp and may take a sample of your hair or a scalp biopsy to gather more information.

Do stay positive

Hair doesn’t make the man. Remind yourself of everything else you have to offer. Or take care of things you can control, like staying in shape. It’s OK to look to others for support. And if you need a little inspiration, think of bald men or guys with shaved heads who ooze confidence. Consider yourself in good company.

Don't wash your hair every day

Most men don’t need to wash their hair every day. Too much shampoo or conditioner on a daily basis breaks down the natural structure of your hair. This doesn’t mean you skip showers, though. Wet and soak your hair in your daily shower, but don’t use product every time.

Don’t do / limit the following

Do not using hair accessories that can cause hair breakage, such as hairpins, clips, and rubber bands

Avoid styling products that can damage and break the hair, such as blow-dryers set to a high heat, straightening irons, and curling irons

Limit the use of
bleach, relaxers, and hair dyes

Avoid excess shampooing or brushing

When the hair is wet, avoiding brushing it or applying plastic or rubber hair ties, tight hairstyles, such as pigtails, cornrows, braids, and buns

Avoid hot oil treatments

Avoid chemicals used in perms and hair straightening treatments

Avoid hot curling
irons or straightening irons

Avoid bleaching
your hair

If you must use chemicals or bleach in your hair, seek help from a trained professional. Don’t try to do it yourself at home. Treating the hair as gently as possible can help preserve it and minimize the rate of hair loss. Constantly twisting, twirling, or pulling your hair tight can lead to hair loss.

Don’t overlook hair transplants

If it comes to it transplanting healthy hair, this can be a good long term solution and has shown excellent results. The surgical technique involves moving hair follicles from a hairier part of the body to where the hair is thinning or bald. The process can be costly, and you may need to do it a few times before it works. After 2 months, you’ll shed most of what the doctor moved, but new strands will grow back. It’ll start to look normal within 6 months.

Don’t stress

Going through a rough time can sometimes lead to hair loss. Try to head it off by getting a better grip on your stress. Try techniques like meditation, deep breathing, guided imagery, relaxation exercises, or talking to a counsellor. Exercise is also a great option. These are all easy to learn and proven to help ease tension. Keep in mind, the best treatment for your hair loss depends on the cause. Talk to your doctor for guidance.

Don’t overlook getting a medical check-up

Aside from your genetics, there are several medical conditions that can result in hair loss. You’ll be able to address your hair loss by treating the underlying condition.

Diabetes, thyroid conditions, eating disorders (due to poor nutrition), iron deficiency anaemia, hair pulling disorder, known as trichotillomania, syphilis, etc. could lead to hair loss.

If you have any of these conditions, or you’re experiencing other symptoms besides hair loss, make sure you visit your doctor and get the treatment you need. Your hair loss should improve as your condition improves.

Don’t overlook seeing a doctor

Hair loss is not necessarily a condition that affects a person’s overall health, but it can greatly impact their mental well-being and self-esteem. A person should see their doctor if they are concerned about hair loss, especially if they are taking supplements or have made dietary changes and are losing hair. A doctor may recommend seeing a dermatologist, who can conduct additional testing if necessary to determine appropriate treatments.

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