Hair loss: Dr Ranj discusses causes of male pattern baldness
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The mechanisms that drive hair loss are stubborn – they are usually the result of the action of sex hormones and genetics. Thwarting hair loss is therefore a tall order but evidence suggests you can slow it down and improve the strength of hair follicles. Shampoo containing caffeine has been shown to perform this function.
A review published in the Journal of Drugs in Dermatology evaluated the literature of supplemental treatments for alopecia and singled out caffeine shampoo for its promise.
It cited a study that evaluated the topical application of a caffeine shampoo over a six-month in 30 men with Androgenetic alopecia (AGA), or male pattern baldness.
AGA is a permanent type of hair loss that usually runs in the family.
“Self-reported and dermatological assessments revealed hair loss to be substantially reduced compared to baseline assessments,” the review reported.
What’s more, the hair pull test demonstrated increased tensile strength, with 7.17 percent reduction in hairs pulled after three months and 13.45 percent reduction after six months.
The hair pull test is a standardised method for testing the strength of hair follicles.
It involves gently pulling on strands of hair to gauge how much hair is being shed.
The results of the study are promising but there were some study limitations.
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“The results were reported without the performance of statistical analysis and the study was limited by lack of a control group,” the review noted.
“Placebo controlled randomised trials are needed to better assess the efficacy of caffeine in AGA.”
Other treatment options
There are things you can try if your hair loss is causing you distress.
But most treatments are not available on the NHS, so you’ll have to pay for them.
It is important to note that no treatment is 100 percent effective.
According to the NHS, finasteride and minoxidil are the main treatments for male pattern baldness.
“Minoxidil can also be used to treat female pattern baldness. Women should not use finasteride,” warns the health body.
Some wigs are available on the NHS, but you may have to pay unless you qualify for financial help.
NHS wigs and fabric supports costs
- Surgical brassiere – £30.05
- Abdominal or spinal support – £45.35
- Stock modacrylic wig – £74.15
- Partial human hair wig – £196.40
- Full bespoke human hair wig – £287.20.
Additional support
Losing hair can be upsetting – for many people, their hair is an important part of who they are.
“If your hair loss is causing you distress, your GP may be able to help you get some counselling,” explains the NHS.
It adds: “You may also benefit from joining a support group, or speaking to other people in the same situation on online forums.”
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