When Does Hair Loss Start?

There is a common misconception that hair loss only happens to old men. The truth is, hair loss can begin at any age. However, the younger you are when you start to lose your hair can lead to increased insecurities about your appearance. Two-thirds of men will experience hair loss by the time they are 35, which may negatively affect them socially, intimately, or in their business lives.

Hair Loss Is Mostly Genetic

Hair loss, especially in men, is genetic, with 95 percent of all cases resulting from androgenetic alopecia, commonly known as male pattern baldness (MPB). MPB is the most common reason for hair loss, and it is irreversible in severe cases. While genetics may predispose you to lose your hair, factors such as stress, diet, or other medical issues can hasten the process.  

Gradual Onset

About 25 percent of men with male pattern baldness will begin to lose small amounts of hair by the time they are 21. However, your hair doesn’t fall out overnight, and you will notice your hair slowly getting thinner over time. It is in these early stages that you might try at-home treatments that may or may not slow the hair loss process.

More Hair Loss As You Get Older

Even though hair loss can affect you at any age, you will find it more common to lose hair as you get older. Approximately 85 percent of men over the age of 50 have significantly thinning hair. Since getting older is no longer synonymous with being old, more and more men are looking to reverse their hair loss well into their 50s and 60s.

Treating Hair Loss at Any Age

At-home treatments can only delay hair loss for so long. You may find it a losing battle to try to keep your full head of hair. However, other hair loss treatment options can help you achieve thicker hair in just a matter of months. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections use growth factors in your blood to help stimulate the regrowth of new hair. This treatment is ideal for patients with thinning hair.

If you are suffering from more severe hair loss, hair transplant solutions may be right for you. The SmartGraft™, our FUE hair transplant in Philadelphia, transplants hair follicles for full hair restoration. You can achieve fuller, thicker hair in as little as three months.

For more information about hair loss solutions, schedule a consultation with Dr. Pontell today. You can call our office at 610-688-7100, or you can contact us online.

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