Men and Hair Loss: Causes, Treatments, and What Works Best

Quick Answer: Male hair loss is usually caused by genetics and sensitivity to the hormone DHT. Treatments include medications such as finasteride and minoxidil, non-surgical therapies like PRP and laser therapy, and surgical options including FUE and FUT hair transplants. Results vary, and early intervention often offers the best chance to preserve existing hair.

What Causes Hair Loss in Men?

• Genetics: The main cause is androgenetic alopecia, also called male pattern baldness. This is linked to sensitivity to DHT.
• Lifestyle and health factors: Stress, thyroid disorders, certain medications, smoking, alcohol, and UV exposure can contribute.
• Other conditions: Alopecia areata and telogen effluvium may also cause loss and often require specialist diagnosis.

Treatment Options

Medications

• Finasteride: Reduces DHT levels, helping stabilise further hair loss.
• Minoxidil: Improves blood flow and can support regrowth.
• Supplements: Natural ingredients may support scalp health but are not a replacement for medical therapy.

Non-Surgical Approaches

• PRP Therapy: Uses growth factors from your own blood to stimulate follicles.
• Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT): May encourage circulation and follicle activity.
• Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP): Creates the look of density with pigment.

Surgical Solutions

• FUE Hair Transplant: Follicles are extracted individually and reimplanted. Minimal scarring, quicker recovery.
• FUT Hair Transplant: A strip of scalp is harvested, then divided into grafts. Useful for higher graft numbers, though it can leave a fine scar.

Timing Matters

The earlier treatment begins, the more options are available. Medications and PRP can be used to preserve existing hair, while surgical approaches are most effective once loss has stabilised.

Before and After Expectations

• Medications and PRP may deliver visible thickening for some patients.
• Surgical transplants can restore hairlines and density, but outcomes vary depending on donor supply, hair type, and technique.
• All results differ by individual and cannot be guaranteed.

FAQs

Q: What is the most common cause of male hair loss?
A: Genetic sensitivity to DHT, leading to androgenetic alopecia.

Q: Which treatments really work?
A: Finasteride, minoxidil, PRP, LLLT, and surgical hair transplantation all have evidence supporting their use, but results differ per person.

Q: Is early treatment better?
A: Yes. Early intervention can preserve more hair and keep more options open in the long term.

Q: Are hair transplants permanent?
A: Transplanted follicles usually continue growing for many years, but untreated areas may still thin over time.

Image disclaimer: SMP patient images, these are for illustrative purposes only and not representative of every patient’s experience. Individual results vary. Photos used with consent.

Image disclaimer: Medication therapy patient, these are for illustrative purposes only and not representative of every patient’s experience. Individual results vary. Photos used with consent.

Next Steps

If you are experiencing hair loss and want to know what treatments may suit you, Medihair offers an obligation free consultation either in person or online. If you proceed to the next stage, you will meet with an AHPRA registered doctor who will review your hair loss, donor supply, and goals.

To book, call 1300 355 325 or Click Here.

Disclaimer: All surgical or invasive procedures carry risks. Results vary. Before proceeding, seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner. Individual results vary. Images are illustrative only and used with consent.