Studies have led to the discover five gene variants that can lead to male pattern baldness. In this blog, we are going to discuss the role of testosterone on genetic male pattern baldness and male hair thinning.
Yes, hair loss can be associated with hereditary influences. But it can vary from person to person as to what amount of hair loss is hereditary. Around 80% of the hair loss cases of Androgenetic Alopecia are caused due to genetic factors. So, we can say that hair loss can be classified as a hereditary condition. While some men can choose to get medications and deploy lifestyle changes, others go for FUT, FUE, or Biofibre hair transplant.
Genetics-related hair loss leads to female and male pattern baldness. Male pattern baldness (MPB) begins as an M-shape receding hairline, and it begins around the age of 20 to 30 years.
Genetic male pattern baldness is polygenic, which means it takes more than one gene to stimulate baldness in men. Male baldness is associated with the AR (Androgen Receptor), and it is found in the X Chromosome. This is one of the reasons why say that a man’s baldness is inherited from his mother’s father.
Studies have found that people with the AR gene on the X chromosome are at twice the risk of developing MPB than those without this gene.
The AR gene isn’t the only culprit causing hair loss. Researchers have found other genes to play a role in ether inhibiting hair growth.
In addition to the genes playing a role in causing baldness, men tend to use creatine supplements to tackle hair loss. However, men predisposed to male pattern baldness, can experience an aggravated hair loss condition due to creatine baldness.
As a result, baldness genetic testing now investigates a panel of genes associated with hair loss and not only the AR gene. This is to gain a more comprehensive understanding on the role of genetics in hair loss. However, these tests are still evolving, and we cannot say with certainty because other lifestyle factors are also responsible for hair loss.
Testosterone is an essential male hormone responsible for several functions, including hair growth. In puberty, the testosterone levels increase, promoting thick hair growth.
The same testosterone hormone also leads to increase in the growth of beard and underarm hair. Moreover, testosterone is also responsible for maintaining hair growth.
Now comes the twist, testosterone has a companion named enzyme 5-alpha reductase. This enzyme converts testosterone into Dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT is a vital enzyme for a male’s sexual development, but it can be harmful for hair follicles.
DHT binds to the AR protein on hair follicles and manifests into a chain reaction. Due to this, the hair growth cycle is cut, the hair follicles are stunted, causing hair loss. This is why genetic male pattern baldness has its classic receding hairline and crown hair thinning.
In addition to causing hair loss, the presence of DHT also leads to greasy scalp due to an increase in sebum production. A greasy scalp is also associated with MPB, which gives us another evidence for connecting DHT with hair loss.
The role of genetics in hair loss is still under research. We do have some evidence relating genetics with hair loss, and more research is underway to find clear associations. If you are also experiencing male pattern baldness, consult a dermatologist to get the tests done and identify the cause.
In addition to genetic baldness, other lifestyle factors can also contribute to hair loss. Hence, get in touch with your surgeon today to know more about the causes and get the best hair loss treatment for male.
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