Androgenetic alopecia (hereditary hair loss)

Androgenetic alopecia, often called hereditary or hormonal hair loss, is by far the most common cause of hair loss. It affects up to 80% of men and a large proportion of women at some point in life. Behind the condition lies a genetic sensitivity to the hormone DHT (dihydrotestosterone). In people with this sensitivity, DHT binds to the follicles in the forehead and crown and makes them gradually shrink — each hair cycle produces a thinner, shorter strand until the follicle eventually stops producing hair. The follicles at the back and sides of the head are genetically resistant to DHT, which is why they work so well as donor hair for a transplant. In men the progression often follows the Norwood scale: receding hairline, thinning crown and, over time, larger bald areas. In women it more often shows as diffuse thinning with a wider part, while the front hairline is usually preserved. The progression can be slowed. PRP treatment and medication (minoxidil, finasteride) can stabilise and in some cases densify existing hair, especially early on. Where the follicles have already died, only a hair transplant can move new, DHT-resistant follicles to the area. The best results are often seen with a combination. At a free consultation we assess your scalp and suggest the right strategy for you.