Can androgenetic alopecia be cured?

Aug 09, 2022 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Liu Wan

Introduction

Androgenetic alopecia is difficult to cure completely; however, early and standardized treatment can yield satisfactory therapeutic outcomes. Also known as seborrheic alopecia, it is a common form of hair loss that typically begins in young adulthood. It often has a genetic component and familial predisposition, and is strongly associated with progressive thinning and loss of hair at the frontal hairline and vertex, as well as abnormalities in androgen metabolism.

I suffer from androgenetic alopecia and have visited numerous hospitals for treatment, yet the results have been minimal—and my hair loss has actually worsened. I am seeking an effective treatment approach. So, can androgenetic alopecia be cured?

Can androgenetic alopecia be cured?

Androgenetic alopecia is difficult to cure completely; however, early, standardized treatment can yield satisfactory outcomes. Also known as seborrheic alopecia, it is a common form of hair loss typically beginning in young adulthood. It often exhibits a genetic or familial predisposition and is closely associated with progressive thinning and shedding of hair at the frontal hairline and vertex, as well as abnormalities in androgen metabolism.

Additionally, topical medications that improve scalp blood circulation and stimulate hair growth may also be beneficial in treating androgenetic alopecia. However, if diagnosis occurs late—when extensive hair loss has already occurred at the vertex and follicles have undergone significant miniaturization—the condition becomes much more difficult to reverse. Since follicular miniaturization is largely irreversible, hair transplantation or wearing wigs may be the only viable options for restoration at this stage.

Adopting a balanced diet and appropriately supplementing essential vitamins can help prevent hair loss. Moreover, protein deficiency is one of the primary contributing factors to hair loss. Patients with hair loss should avoid using nylon combs and brushes, as these generate static electricity and may irritate both the scalp and hair. We hope this information proves helpful to you!

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Can male pattern baldness be cured?

Clinically, androgenetic alopecia can only be controlled—not cured. Male-pattern hair loss is caused by excessive secretion of androgens in the body or, alternatively, by an individual’s heightened sensitivity to androgens due to constitutional factors. This condition can be treated with topical minoxidil tincture combined with oral finasteride tablets.

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What Is Androgenetic Alopecia?

Androgenetic alopecia refers to hair loss occurring at the crown and vertex of the scalp, caused by elevated levels of androgens in the body, leading to increased conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT). It commonly affects men with high testosterone levels. The human body produces an androgen called dihydrotestosterone (DHT), also known as a male sex hormone. Androgens—also termed testosterone—can be converted into DHT by an enzyme present in the body when androgen levels are elevated.

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What Causes Androgenetic Alopecia?

Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is caused by multiple factors. It is a polygenic, androgen-dependent, autosomal dominant disorder with variable expression. Elevated androgen levels in males constitute the primary cause of hair loss. Psychological factors—such as mental stress, sleep deprivation, and emotional stimuli—as well as excessive consumption of fried foods, high-fat foods, and high-sugar foods may also contribute to androgen-related hair loss in men.

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Differences Between Androgenetic Alopecia and Seborrheic Alopecia

Androgenetic alopecia and seborrheic alopecia are defined differently: Seborrheic alopecia—medically termed androgenetic alopecia—is a common form of hair loss occurring during or after puberty. However, this condition is characterized by miniaturization of hair follicles and progressive hair thinning, without scarring. Notably, androgens exert distinct effects on different body regions—including the occipital and frontal scalp—as well as within the brain.