The difference between hereditary and non-hereditary hair loss in men is one of the most common problems men face at various stages of their lives. It can cause anxiety and stress due to its impact on overall appearance and self-confidence. But did you know that the difference between hereditary and non-hereditary hair loss in men is significant? Understanding this difference is not only important for diagnosing the true cause of your hair loss, but also for choosing the most appropriate treatment.
What is hereditary hair loss?
Hereditary hair loss is a type of hair loss that occurs as a result of genetic factors that are passed down from parents to children. It is also known as hereditary baldness or male pattern baldness and is one of the most common types of hair loss among men. This type of hair loss occurs due to the influence of genes that determine the strength of hair follicles and their sensitivity to hormones such as testosterone and dihydrotestosterone (DHT) .
Causes of hereditary hair loss:
Hormonal influence
Testosterone and its conversion to DHT are the main factors in hereditary hair loss. DHT causes hair follicles to shrink, leading to reduced hair density and stunted hair growth.
genes
If you have a family history of hereditary baldness, your chances of experiencing this type of hair loss increase. This type of hair loss often begins at an early age (from the twenties to the thirties).
traditional distribution
Hereditary hair loss is characterized by hair loss from the front of the head (forehead) and the crown area, which is different from non-hereditary hair loss, which may occur irregularly in scattered places.
How does hereditary hair loss appear?
Hereditary hair loss appears gradually, as the hair begins to thin gradually until it becomes thinner and thicker in certain areas of the head. It may develop into complete or partial baldness and may include areas such as:
- Forehead area : starting from the front hairline.
- The top of the head (crown) : This is known as male pattern baldness.
How is it diagnosed?
- Family history : If there is a family history of hereditary baldness, the doctor can easily diagnose it.
- Tests : In some cases, the doctor may request a test to measure hormone levels or a scalp examination to confirm the diagnosis.
Available treatments
- Minoxidil : A well-known treatment for stimulating hair growth, it is used as a topical solution.
- Hair transplantation : a surgical procedure in which hair follicles are transferred from a dense area to the affected areas.
- Other medications : such as finasteride , which works to reduce DHT levels.
Hereditary hair loss is common but treatable in many cases. If you are experiencing this problem, it is important to consult a doctor to find out the best treatment methods.
What is non-hereditary hair loss?
Non-hereditary hair loss is a type of hair loss that is not related to genetic factors. Instead, this type occurs due to external or health factors that affect the hair follicles. Non-hereditary hair loss can be temporary or permanent depending on the underlying cause.
Non-hereditary causes of hair loss
Stress and psychological pressure:
Psychological stress is one of the most prominent causes of sudden hair loss in men. Exposure to severe pressures, such as work or personal life problems, can lead to telogen effluvium, where a person suddenly loses hair due to the effect of stress on blood circulation in the scalp.
Vitamin and mineral deficiency
A deficiency of some essential vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin D , iron , and zinc, can lead to weak hair follicles and hair loss. This type of hair loss is not considered hereditary and occurs as a result of a lack of proper nutrition.
Hormonal changes
Changes in hormone levels, such as those that occur after pregnancy or stopping the use of birth control pills, may lead to hair loss in women, or changes in testosterone levels in men. These changes may cause non-hereditary hair loss .
Drugs and chemotherapy
Some medications, such as cancer treatment drugs (chemotherapy), blood pressure medications, and antibiotics, may cause hair loss as a side effect. This type of hair loss usually goes away after stopping the medication.
Skin diseases and scalp infections
Skin conditions such as psoriasis or alopecia areata (which causes patchy hair loss) can lead to hair loss. Scalp inflammation or fungal infections can also cause hair loss.
unbalanced nutrition
Following an unbalanced diet, especially if the body is deprived of essential nutrients such as proteins and healthy fats, can lead to hair loss.
Improper handling of hair
Using hair products that contain harsh chemicals, such as dyes or excessive chemical hair treatments, can cause hair damage and hair loss. Styling your hair in a harsh manner (such as tying your hair tightly) can also lead to hair loss.
Seasonal changes
In some cases, seasonal hair loss occurs during the fall and winter seasons, when hair growth rate slows down due to changes in temperature and lighting.
Symptoms of non-hereditary hair loss
- Sudden and severe hair loss.
- General hair loss and the appearance of bald spots in certain areas of the scalp.
- Itchy or inflamed scalp.
- Changes in hair texture, such as increased dryness or breakage.
How is it diagnosed?
- Diagnosis depends on the underlying cause of hair loss. In some cases, a blood test is required to check vitamin and mineral levels or a hormone test.
- A scalp examination may also be required to ensure there are no infections or skin diseases.
Treatment of non-hereditary hair loss
- Stress management : Hair loss caused by stress can be reduced through relaxation techniques such as yoga or meditation.
- Vitamin supplements : In case of vitamin deficiency, appropriate supplements can be taken after consulting a doctor.
- Treating skin diseases : In the case of skin diseases or scalp infections, topical medications or antifungal treatments can be used.
- Improve your diet : Eating a healthy, balanced diet can help promote healthy hair.
- Avoid chemicals : Avoid using harsh chemical products or styling your hair in a way that causes hair loss.
10 Reasons Why Men Sudden Hair Loss (and How to Respond Immediately)
The difference between genetic and non-genetic in one minute
hereditary hair loss
It occurs due to genetic factors, as heredity plays a major role in determining a person's susceptibility to baldness. It often begins at an early age and gradually appears in specific areas such as the forehead or crown. It is caused by the influence of male hormones such as testosterone and dihydrotestosterone (DHT) .
Non-hereditary hair loss
It can be caused by other factors, such as psychological stress, vitamin deficiencies, hormonal changes, or skin conditions. It often occurs suddenly and can be temporary, depending on the underlying cause.
In short, genetic is caused by genes and hormones, while non-genetic is caused by health or environmental factors.
How do you differentiate between them?
If you are experiencing hair loss and are unsure of the cause, distinguishing between hereditary and non-hereditary hair loss is very important to determine the most appropriate treatment. Here is how to differentiate between them:
hereditary hair loss
- It starts gradually in specific areas (such as the forehead or crown).
- It usually appears in early life.
- Increases over time with a consistent pattern.
- It often runs in the family (parents or grandparents have the same problem).
Non-hereditary hair loss
- It occurs suddenly and irregularly.
- It is associated with temporary causes such as stress, vitamin deficiency, or hormonal changes.
- It may improve with treatment or lifestyle changes.
- It can be caused by medications or skin diseases.
If you are unsure of the cause, it is best to consult a doctor to determine the correct diagnosis.
Could the shedding be "mixed"?
Yes, mixed hair loss can occur and refers to a condition where a person experiences hereditary hair loss as well as non-hereditary hair loss at the same time.
How does this happen?
- Hereditary hair loss may begin early in life and lead to a gradual decrease in hair density in specific areas of the scalp.
- At the same time, a person may face other health problems such as psychological stress, vitamin deficiency, or hormonal changes, which can lead to non-hereditary hair loss that may further exacerbate the problem.
How do you find out?
- Hereditary hair loss usually begins in specific areas (such as the forehead or crown) and is gradual.
- Non-hereditary hair loss may appear suddenly and involve large areas of the scalp.
If you suspect your hair loss is mixed, it is important to consult a specialist to determine the actual cause and provide appropriate treatment.
Is your hair loss really hereditary?
To determine if your hair loss is hereditary, you can follow some signs that indicate this:
- Family history of baldness : If you have family members (such as your father or grandfather) who suffer from hereditary baldness, there is a high chance that your hair loss is hereditary.
- Pattern of hair loss : If hair loss begins in specific areas such as the front of the head or crown and occurs gradually over time, this is often hereditary baldness.
- Early age of hair loss : If hair loss starts early (twenties to thirties), the cause may be genetic.
If you suspect that your hair loss is hereditary, you can consult a specialist doctor for a thorough examination and diagnosis.
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Frequently asked questions about the difference between hereditary and non-hereditary hair loss in men
Can hereditary hair loss be stopped or treated?
Yes, it can be stopped or reduced using treatments such as minoxidil or hair transplantation .
Is sudden hair loss permanent?
No, in most cases it is temporary and can be treated once the cause is addressed.
How do I differentiate between hereditary and non-hereditary hair loss?
Hereditary hair loss occurs gradually in specific areas such as the forehead or crown, while non-hereditary hair loss occurs suddenly and involves the entire scalp.
Is minoxidil useful in all cases?
Minoxidil is useful for hereditary hair loss and may not be effective for non-hereditary hair loss.
Can I have two types of hair loss together?
Yes, mixed hair loss (hereditary and non-hereditary) can occur at the same time.
When should you see a dermatologist?
You should see a doctor if you notice sudden or persistent hair loss or if there is inflammation or skin symptoms on the scalp.