Androgenic alopecia is a very common condition probably known to every man on earth. Androgenetic alopecia is a common form of hair loss in both men and women. In men, this condition is also known as male-pattern baldness. Hair is lost in a well-defined pattern, beginning above both temples. Androgenic alopecia in women is usually manifested as the thinning of hair all throughout the head. The pattern is uniform and not in patches. On the other hand, androgenic alopecia in males is more noticeable as patches – usually on the top of the head – occur. The thinning of the hair at the temples is another sign of androgenic alopecia. Androgenetic alopecia in men has been associated with several other medical conditions including coronary heart disease and enlargement of the prostate.

Androgenic alopecia often runs in families. Almost all patients have an onset prior to age 40 years, although many of the patients (both male and female) show evidence of the disorder by age 30 years. The pattern of hair loss in women differs from male-pattern baldness. In women, the hair becomes thinner all over the head, and the hairline does not recede. Androgens also have other important functions in both males and females, such as regulating hair growth and drive. Androgenic alopecia is thought to be due to the hair growing tissue's sensitivity to hormones; this sensitivity is due to genetic factors. Women with androgenetic alopecia generally lose hair diffusely over the crown. This produces a gradual thinning of the hair rather than an area of marked baldness.

Androgen is necessary for progression of the disorder, as it is not found in males castrated prior to puberty. The treatment options for androgenetic alopecia are topical application of minoxidil (Rogaine) offers unlimited hope but little practical benefit. Finasteride is given orally and is a 5 alpha-reductase type 2 inhibitor. It is not an antiandrogen. Hair transplants are another option for treating androgenic alopecia. Many people have achieved success with natural alternatives such as Provillus and other hair loss treatments. Some people can benefit from scalp reduction. Propecia is a new medication taken by mouth which treats androgenic alopecia. Spironolactone is a potassium-sparing diuretic used for treating mild hypertension. Oral spironolactone is used fairly widely for treating women with AGA.

Androgenic Alopecia Treatment Tips

1. Rogaine (minoxidil) is a medicine used to treat high blood pressure.

2. Hair transplants are another option for treating androgenic alopecia.

3. Some people can benefit from scalp reduction.

4. Propecia is a new medication taken by mouth which treats androgenic alopecia.

5. Steroid injections, creams, and shampoos for the scalp have been used for alopecia.