Health

Receding Hairline: Causes and Treatment Options

Receding hairline is a common problem that affects many people, especially men. Over time, some individuals notice their hairline receding and hair thinning in certain areas of the scalp. This issue is not just a matter of aesthetics, but it can also impact self-confidence and lower self-esteem.

In this article ZEEN explores the main causes of receding hairlines and provides expert advice on treating this condition, according to RealSimple.

Causes of Receding Hairline

  • Androgenetic Alopecia (Male Pattern Baldness): Androgenetic alopecia, also known as male pattern baldness, is the most common cause of receding hairline. This type of hair loss primarily affects men as they age, although women can also experience it due to hormonal imbalances. Age-related hair loss follows a specific pattern, hence the name. In men, this often involves a receding hairline and a bald patch on the crown. Women typically experience widening of the part in their hair. Gretchen Friese, a hair loss specialist at BosleyMD, explains that “DHT [dihydrotestosterone] is responsible for hair loss. If your hair follicles are dormant – not fully developed – there are things you can do to treat this condition.”

Treatment:
The treatment involves using a product containing minoxidil immediately. Minoxidil works by dilating blood vessels, which helps increase blood flow to hair follicles, promoting hair growth. It can help prolong the hair growth phase and should be used as soon as the problem is noticed, as it only works on dormant follicles. It’s essential to continue using it consistently, as hair loss will resume once treatment stops.

  • Traction Alopecia: Traction alopecia is a result of constantly wearing tight hairstyles, such as ponytails, buns, or braids, which pull at the hair around the hairline. Gina Washington, a hair specialist and founder of Righteous Roots, explains that this continuous pulling damages hair follicles, leading to hair loss. If this is not addressed promptly, the effects can be permanent.

Treatment:
The first step is to stop styling your hair in these tight hairstyles and use a gentler approach when styling. “Choose loose hairstyles that don’t pull on the hair,” says Washington. “Even heat or chemical damage can cause stress.”
By following these tips, your hair is allowed to grow back, allowing follicles to regrow without dying. Treatments containing minoxidil can also help speed up this process. Regular scalp massages are beneficial as they increase blood flow to the scalp, promoting hair growth.

Lifestyle Factors:
In some cases, hair loss can be triggered by lifestyle factors such as hormonal changes (particularly related to age, menopause, pregnancy), and a lack of proper nutrition.
This temporary condition, known as telogen effluvium, occurs when your body is under stress and also affects hair growth and shedding.
In this case, you will experience noticeable hair loss approximately two to four months after the event.

In all of the scenarios mentioned above, hair loss occurs all over the scalp, not just in the hairline region. If you are experiencing hair loss only in the hairline, it is more likely to be due to androgenetic alopecia or traction alopecia. However, making changes to your lifestyle can help promote healthy hair growth.

Treatment:
First, ensure you address any lifestyle factors that may be contributing to hair loss, such as finding ways to reduce stress and maintaining a balanced diet. Friese adds, “Temporary hair loss caused by stress, nutritional deficiencies, medication changes, postpartum, and even COVID-19 can be treated by taking healthy supplements and using products that help stimulate hair growth,” including minoxidil treatments, biotin supplements, and multivitamins.

Preventing Receding Hairline

To prevent receding hairline, consider the following:

  • Maintain a regular hair care routine.
  • Wash your hair gently and rinse with cool water.
  • Avoid excessive use of heat styling tools.
  • Protect your hair from harmful sun rays.
  • Choose hair products suitable for your hair type.

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