A lot of men must deal with hair loss at some point in their lives and unless they (like Bruce above) look particularly good bald, it can be a distressing experience. Even the most grooming-shy man can affected by hair loss which usually occurs in the late twenties and early thirties. Hair usually starts to thin and then fall out around the temples and/or crown, those areas then meeting to form a significant ‘patch’.

The reasons for this are twofold and the first is environmental. If you’re losing hair, it’s a good idea to have a thorough check-up with your doctor as it may be down to one of several factors such as a scalp infection, side effects of medicine, an underactive thyroid or iron deficiency. In addition to this, stress is known to cause hair loss in both women and men. The good thing about these causes is that they are fully reversible with the corresponding treatment.

The second is genetic. A genetic predisposition to a sensitivity-to and an excess-of dihydrotestosterone (or DHT) causes the hair folicles to thin and then fall out.
This is a trait passed on through generations and can only be stalled by constant treatment but never cured (yet) unless you consider hair transplant surgery.

There are only three tried, tested and proven ways to slow down and improve upon hair loss.

• Minoxidil – This is a lotion you rub on the scalp to stimulate new hair growth and slow down hair loss. You may know of it in the form of Rogaine or Regaine, UK users can find this in pharmacies.
• Finasteride (or Propecia) is a treatment for hair loss that blocks male hormones like the previously mentioned DHT in order to slow hair loss and create hair growth. You’ll need to see a doctor about this one.

Unfortunately, with both treatments the hair gained will only remain for as long as you continue the treatment. Also, both have potential side effects so research them thoroughly and ask lots of questions before committing to a plan. Finally have patience, both drugs are known to take about 6 months before yielding visible results.

Other than that, all you can do is focus on keeping the hair you already have healthy and strong by eating properly and protecting it from harm. Head and Shoulders have recently released a shampoo for men under the horribly misleading name of Hair Endurance. While this wont strengthen your hair or promote regrowth, it will definately prevent breakage from scratching due to dandruff as well as reduce static (making your hair look less limp and flat).

Have any hair loss stories? Please share them in the comments section or send me an email!