Have you noticed more hair in your shower drain lately? Does your hairbrush seem fuller than usual? Are you starting to see your scalp peek through where there used to be thick coverage? If you're nodding along, the truth might surprise you: hair loss affects approximately 85% of men by age 50 [1], making it a very common concern as one gets older.Understanding why hair loss occurs is one of the first steps toward addressing it effectively. Excessive hair fall could signal underlying issues that deserve attention. Let's explore the five key reasons why hair fall might occur in males and what you can do about it.1. Androgenetic Alopecia (Male Pattern Baldness)Androgenetic alopecia, commonly known as male pattern baldness (MPB), is responsible for over 30-50% of hair loss in men by 50 [2]. Far from just being a cosmetic concern, this genetically predetermined condition typically manifests as the classic "M" shape, gradually progressing to more extensive baldness [3].  How DHT causes hair loss [2]: At the heart of this genetic hair loss lies a hormone called dihydrotestosterone (DHT). Here's how it works: The conversion process: As an adult, your body converts about 10% of your testosterone (the main androgen) into DHT each day, with the help of an enzyme called 5-alpha reductase (5-AR)The hair follicle attack: Once it's freely flowing through your bloodstream, DHT can then link to receptors on hair follicles in your scalp, causing them to shrink and become less capable of supporting a healthy head of hairGenetic sensitivity: It's …

Are you finding more hair in the shower drain than on your head? Is your hairline receding faster than your patience? Does running your fingers through your hair feel like a game of "how many strands will I lose today?" If you answered yes to any of these questions, you're far from being alone. Hair loss is a common concern for many Australians, affecting both men and women [1].The good news? There are now more treatment options offered by modern medicine than ever before, from TGA-approved medications to cutting-edge therapies. Let's explore what you need to know about the seven most common hair loss treatments available in Australia today. 1. Minoxidil (Topical and Oral)Originally developed as a blood pressure medication, Minoxidil is an over-the-counter topical medical drug available as a lotion or foam, and also as an oral prescription [2]. Regrowth may become apparent after six months [2,3].How it works [3]: Minoxidil is thought to stimulate hair follicles and prolong the hair growth cycle, thereby promoting hair growth and slowing down hair loss.Considerations [3]: Some individuals may experience temporary shedding (known as "minoxidil shedding") when starting treatment, or side effects like a dry, red, or itchy scalp. Oral minoxidil might affect blood pressure, so it requires medical supervision.2. Finasteride (Oral)Finasteride is an oral prescription-only medication that has shown significant results for male pattern baldness [2,4]. Visible regrowth may take 6 months to two years [4].How it works [4]: It works by blocking the production of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone that contributes …

Did you know that 30 to 50% of men over 50 experience hair loss due to Male Pattern Baldness (MPB) or Male Androgenetic Alopecia (MAA)?1 While ageing may be a factor, genetics and hormonal shifts might also play a considerable role.3 Here are eight essential strategies to help you deal with your hair loss issues. Keep reading to learn more!Strategy 1: Understand Your Hair Growth CycleThrough a multi-phase growth cycle, hair from your scalp is shed at approximately 100 to 200 follicles per day and grows at a rate of about 0.35 mm per day, 1 cm per month, or 15 cm per year:2Hair Growth Cycle Phase(s)Duration% of Hairs in that PhaseAnagen (Growth Phase)Several years~90%Catagen (Transition Phase)Several weeks~1 to 2%Telogen (Resting Phase)A variable amount of time, depending on the location of the hair~10 to 14%Table showing hair growth cycle phases, duration, and percentage of hairs in that phase.The anagen phase is the active growth phase. Hair follicles then go through a short transition (catagen) phase before entering the resting (telogen) phase. Hair loss occurs when the normal hair growth cycle is disrupted or when the hair follicle is damaged. This might happen due to various factors.2Strategy 2: Understand the Main Causes of Male Hair Loss Androgenic hair loss in men is primarily influenced by genetic and hormonal factors. Here’s a breakdown of the main causes: Genetics: The most significant factor in MAA seems to be genetics. If there are close family members who have experienced male pattern baldness, there's a higher …