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How Fast Can the Hair Loss Process Happen?
Hair loss can be a distressing event for both men and women. The rate at which hair loss occurs varies significantly from person to person, based on a wide range of factors. At Hair Loss Specialists, we have facts about hair loss that will help you understand why it occurs, how fast it can occur, and what you can do to slow hair loss or even reverse it with the right cosmetic procedures.
Causes of Hair Loss
The type of hair loss that is occurring, as well as reason for the hair loss, will both have a direct impact on just how fast the loss might occur in some people. One of the most common types of hair loss in men is male pattern baldness, or androgentic alopecia. Possible causes for this type of hair loss include:
- Genetics – Genes for male pattern baldness can be passed down from either parent and the degree of the influence can vary considerably. This means that just because a person receives a “baldness” gene; it doesn’t mean he will surely become bald himself. For those who do follow the genetic pattern of baldness, it is still nearly impossible to predict when and where the loss will occur, or the rate at which the loss will happen.
- Hormones – Some specific hormones in males, including testosterone and DHT, can cause damage to hair follicles that could eventually lead to hair loss in some men. The primary culprit in the event of male pattern baldness is thought to be DHT, because this hormone is directly associated with the specific changes that accompany the balding process. Again, it is difficult to predict when hair loss due to hormones might occur, or how long it will take to run its course. The person’s genetic makeup and specific hormone levels will have a direct impact on the hair loss in each individual.
- Age – Most men will experience a decrease in hair volume through the normal aging process. This process is not necessarily linear, but more cyclical in nature, making it difficult to predict when or how rapidly it will occur. Genetics and hormones will also play a role in hair loss as a result of aging.
Temporary hair loss, also referred to as telogen effluvium, could be the result of some medications, stress or the use of harsh hair products. In these situations, individuals may be able to stop or even reverse at least some of the hair loss by stopping the cause of the problem, such as switching medications, or finding constructive ways to deal with stress. Once the trigger of the hair loss is eliminated, normal hair growth may be regained.
Average Hair Loss Estimates
While it is difficult to predict how fast hair loss will happen, there are some general figures that might help men get a better idea of what they can expect from their own hair loss experiences. On average, most men will take 15-25 years to complete the majority of the hair loss process once it has begun. Most will lose hair at an average rate of around 5% each year, depending on the reason for the hair loss and the genetics and hormones involved. However, a small number of those men might be completely bald within five years, bucking the general trend and making it difficult to predict all male pattern baldness rates.
While it can be difficult to know how quickly hair loss will occur as a general rule, doctors who are experienced in hair loss can often make a more accurate prediction based on the patient’s unique genetics and other factors. If you are concerned about hair loss, it is important to see a hair loss specialist as soon as possible to find a reason for the hair loss and learn your options in slowing the loss or stopping it completely. There are plenty of solutions for hair loss today, from medications that effectively preserve remaining hair to cosmetic treatments that replace lost hair through transplant methods. Contact one of our representatives at Hair Loss Specialists to get more information about your choices in hair loss treatment or to find a specialist in your area today.
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