Alopecia is a general term for hair loss, often caused by autoimmune disorders, stress, and genetics. Male pattern baldness (androgenetic alopecia), on the other hand, is a gradual, genetic hair loss that usually follows a specific pattern and is age-related.
Let’s dig right in, research the differences, understand each type of hair loss, and opt for the best treatment options.
What Is Alopecia?
Alopecia refers to a group of diseases that cause hair loss and can occur on the scalp or the entire body. There are various types of alopecia, some of which may be temporary and others permanent. Each type of alopecia has its own signs and causes.
Types of Alopecia
There are mainly three types of Alopecia, and knowing each type helps in better diagnosis and care.
- Alopecia Areata – Alopecia areata is an autoimmune disorder. In this disorder, the immune system mistakenly attacks the hair follicles. This results in sudden and patchy hair loss. Hair loss may be on the scalp, beard, or eyebrows. In some people, the hair regrows on its own. In other people, the disorder returns or worsens. However, the exact cause of the disorder is unknown. Stress and genetics play a vital role in causing this disorder.
- Alopecia Totalis – Alopecia Totalis is a severe form of alopecia. In this type, all scalp hair falls out. Immune system disorders trigger alopecia. This type of alopecia is less common but noticeable. Treatment helps in curing alopecia. However, hair may not necessarily grow back. Medical care is important in managing this type of alopecia.
- Alopecia Universalis – Alopecia Universalis is the worst form of the condition. This results in hair loss on the entire body. This includes hair on the eyebrows, eyelashes, and the body. It is a rare condition. Just like all the other autoimmune diseases, it is hard to treat. The effects are both physical and emotional. This condition requires a lot of care.
What Is Male Pattern Baldness?
Male pattern baldness is the most common form of hair loss in men. It is also known as androgenetic alopecia. The primary causes of male pattern baldness are genetics and hormones. It occurs over time. There is a particular pattern of hair loss in male pattern baldness. It begins with the hairline receding, and over time, the areas become more noticeable.
Causes of Male Pattern Baldness
Hormones play a vital role in this condition. DHT hormone affects hair follicles. It causes a shrinkage over time. This leads to thin and short hair. Another factor that affects this condition is genetics. If family members already have this condition, the risk increases. Another factor is age. As men get older, the risk of this condition increases.
Key Differences Between Alopecia and Male Pattern Baldness
According to many hair restoration experts, there are two key differences between alopecia and male pattern baldness.
- The main difference is that alopecia is a general term that encompasses all forms of hair loss. Male pattern baldness is one form of alopecia. Not all alopecia is caused by heredity.
- The second difference is that male pattern baldness follows a pattern. Other forms of alopecia may not. The pattern of hair loss in alopecia is less predictable than that in male pattern baldness. The cause may not be the same as that in male pattern baldness.
Treatment Options
The treatment varies depending on the cause of hair loss. For male pattern baldness, medicines are available that can slow hair loss. Some medicines can even help regrow the lost hair. Early treatment can provide the best results. Other forms of hair loss may also need special treatment. This can include immune-based treatments or lifestyle changes. It is always necessary to consult a doctor before receiving the right treatment. Self-medication can’t provide the best results. Some of the popular hair-loss treatments include:
- Medications – Over-the-counter (OTC) medications are the first-line treatment for hair loss. A man can apply these medicines to his scalp. Along with these, certain oral medications such as Ficar, Finpecia, and Finasteride also help prevent excessive hair loss. Consult a doctor or a hair restoration expert, as most of these drugs have side effects.
- Hair transplant – The healthcare provider removes skin grafts from areas of your body with healthy hair and places them in areas with baldness. Possible side effects include scalp pain and irritation, scarring, dizziness, and vomiting.
- Platelet-rich plasma – In this treatment, a hair restoration expert draws blood from your body and injects it into your scalp. The treatment aims at promoting hair growth. Possible side effects of this treatment include scalp pain and irritation, dizziness, and vomiting.
Conclusion
Alopecia and baldness in men are two distinct concepts, though related. One of them is general, while the other one is specific. The difference between the two helps in providing proper care and treatment to the affected individual. You can overcome hair loss with proper care and treatment. Consult your hair restoration expert now. The best course of action in this case depends on a proper diagnosis. Hair loss could be due to another underlying condition or simply old age. The first action is to see a hair restoration doctor.