Male pattern hair loss

Abstract

Male hair loss, also known as androgenetic alopecia, is a common condition in men aged 20–25 years or older. It affects 30–50% of males and severely impacts the quality of life as it leads to loss of confidence and lack of satisfaction with aesthetics; hence, it is a significant cause of mental health issues. It is also associated with skin cancer of the scalp, hypercholesterolemia, arterial stiffness, hypertension, myocardial infarction and cardiovascular disease. Race and family history play an important role in the development of baldness with an 80% contribution of heredity in predisposition. Although recently approved treatment with minoxidil and finasteride is effective in preventing further hair loss, it requires continuous administration to maintain effect and has limited efficacy in reversing baldness. However, these treatments have adverse effects, including sexual dysfunction, dandruff, itching and erythema. Hair transplantation is a comparatively long-lasting and successful option to achieve desirable results in up to 98% of cases.