Male pattern baldness, scientifically known as androgenetic alopecia, has affected more than forty million men all across the United States. Studies show that twenty-five percent of men experience the onset of male baldness as early as age thirty. Others experience it as late as sixty years old. Complete hair loss is actually common in men and is said to be permanent. While experts state the cause is complex, the scientific name alone states the problem basically stems from two major factors: hormonal and genetic.

Contrary to popular belief, wearing caps does not cause baldness or thinning hair. Baldness hair loss is hereditary. Brushing and massaging the scalp does not help to regrow healthy hair. Also, extensively cleaning the scalp has not been proven to unclog the follicles and allow hair regrowth.

Baldness is somehow caused by extreme psychological stress. There are two known types of baldness, namely alopecia areata and traction alopecia.

Alopecia areata causes patchy hair losses on the scalp and its main cause is said to be a result of the immune system of the body attacking the hair follicles. Experts say this type of baldness is untreatable. Traction alopecia results from pulling the hair for long periods of time and is caused by hairstyles like tight braids.
This can be resolved once the pulling of the hair is eliminated.

Male pattern baldness is not considered a medical disorder. Although there are some men who opt to just let the process run its course, there are some who desire to be treated, as it can lead to depression and anxiety. Complete hair loss in men can be treated by prescription medications and surgical treatments.

Prescription medications include Minoxidil (Rogaine) and Finasteride (Propecia). This option is ideal for men who are having thinning hair at an earlier stage. At present, only these two medications are duly approved by the Food and Drug Administration.

For surgical treatments, hair transplantation and scalp reduction are two options. However, since this is a surgical procedure, there are certain risks, such as infection and scarring.

Cosmetic treatments are perhaps the easiest and most convenient way to deal with male pattern baldness. For men who are not comfortable with medications or surgical procedures, a toupee or hair piece might do the trick, and there are lots of shops today that make custom made toupees to cover the balding area. Options for baldness is a big issue among men today, so if you are contemplating or considering these procedures, be sure to discuss the pros and cons with your doctor.