Overview
Androgenic Alopecia, also known as male-pattern baldness or female-pattern hair loss, is the most common form of hair loss affecting both men and women. It is a progressive condition caused by genetic and hormonal factors, particularly the influence of dihydrotestosterone (DHT) on hair follicles. Although not medically dangerous, it can lead to significant emotional distress and self-esteem issues.
What is Androgenic Alopecia?
Androgenic Alopecia is a hereditary condition where hair follicles gradually shrink due to the effects of androgens, particularly DHT. Over time, this miniaturization shortens the hair growth cycle and produces thinner, shorter, and less pigmented hair until growth stops entirely. The pattern and extent of hair loss differ between men and women.
- In men, it typically starts with a receding hairline and thinning at the crown.
- In women, it usually presents as diffuse thinning on the crown with the frontal hairline preserved.
Symptoms
- Gradual thinning of hair on the scalp
- Receding hairline (especially in men)
- Widening part or increased scalp visibility (especially in women)
- Shorter hair growth cycle
- Miniaturized (thin and light-colored) hair strands
- Rarely leads to complete baldness in women
Causes
Androgenic Alopecia is primarily caused by:
- Genetics – Inherited from either parent
- Hormones – Increased sensitivity of hair follicles to androgens, especially DHT
- Aging – Progresses with age
- Health conditions (e.g., polycystic ovary syndrome in women)
Risk Factors
- Family history of androgenic alopecia
- Male gender (though women are also affected)
- Age – Hair loss becomes more common with age
- Hormonal changes – Especially during menopause, pregnancy, or due to medical conditions
- Certain medications – Such as anabolic steroids
Complications
- Permanent hair loss if left untreated
- Psychological distress or lowered self-confidence
- Social withdrawal or depression in severe cases
- Poor body image
Prevention
While there is no guaranteed way to prevent androgenic alopecia, the following may help slow its progression:
- Early intervention with approved treatments
- Avoiding harsh chemical treatments or heat styling
- Managing stress and maintaining a healthy lifestyle
- Treating underlying hormonal imbalances early
Treatment Options in Korea
South Korea is a global leader in advanced dermatology and hair restoration treatments. Patients with androgenic alopecia have access to both medical and cosmetic options:
Medications:
- Minoxidil (Topical): FDA-approved; promotes hair regrowth and slows loss.
- Finasteride (Oral): Inhibits DHT production; commonly prescribed for men.
- Dutasteride: More potent DHT blocker; occasionally used in resistant cases.
- Spironolactone or hormonal therapy: Often used in women with hormonal imbalance.
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy:
- Uses patient’s own blood plasma injected into the scalp to stimulate hair growth.
Hair Transplant Surgery:
- FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction) and FUT (Follicular Unit Transplantation) are popular techniques in Korea.
- Clinics like Dream Hairline, MoJelim, and Banobagi offer cutting-edge solutions with natural results.
Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT):
- Laser devices used to stimulate hair follicles and improve growth.
Scalp Micropigmentation & Cosmetic Covering:
- Non-surgical solutions for visual improvement of thinning hair
