What Is the Difference Between Hair Pattern Baldness in Men and Women?
Is there really a difference between the hair loss that occurs in men from that in women? Yes there are certain differences in how the condition progresses in both sexes and it displays itself in characteristics unique to each gender.
Androgenetic alopecia is classified into two and this are named accordingly as Hair Patterned Baldness in men and Hair Patterned Baldness in women. They are differentiated as such because they have specific causes, presentations and treatments.
One of the most evident differences in hair pattern baldness between men and women is that, the hair loss in males is concentrated on the front. This can be initially noticed by a receding hairline which in some instances halts at the crown and forms an “M”, or it could progress into total baldness. Some may lose it near their temples or a bald spot is formed around the crown.
For the women, they keep their hairline but there is apparent thinning near the crown of the head. It can also be more evident near the line where they divide their hair, but a significant and alarming increase of hairs uprooted while combing is also a common characteristic.
There are also differences in causes for both sexes. Common causes for men are old age, smoking, over production of DHT (dihydroxytestosterone), lack of sleep, diabetes, high blood pressure and genetics.
The women’s hair patterned baldness can be attributed to menopause, lack of vitamins and minerals, low immunity, stress, skin disorders and decreased thyroid hormone levels. Women also experience a temporary hair loss and thinning during pregnancy triggered by hormonal changes.
Psychological effects also vary between men and women. It is highly stressful for women to deal with this condition than in men, because society commonly dictates that women wear long and thick locks. Most women define their beauty on how they arrange and care for their hair.
The social stigma of balding also has a significant amount of psychological blow in men. The common perception that baldness is equated to aging can create an emotional stir in men. Those who are affected by the condition in their early 20’s would be more affected especially when applying for a job or in dating.
Hair loss presents itself and creates a stress unique for both male and female. Treatments are also available and can cater to the specific needs of both sexes. Women can take hormone replacement therapy, if the cause is hormonal. They can wear wigs or weaves to cover up the thinning areas.
Topical and oral medications are also available; however in the case with men where genetics is a big player for the condition, some would opt for a good hair transplant. Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT) is a common and highly effective method in growing hairs back permanently. But the easiest way for men to cover up their baldness is through the use of toupees.
There are differences of how the condition manifests itself for both males and females. These classifications are important because it can help in deciding the kind of treatment necessary
