Androgenetic alopecia is the correct medical terminology for the kind of hair loss which is more commonly known as Male pattern baldness (MPB) (alopecia is the more general medical name for hair loss). It would appear that the cause of MPB is dihydrotestosterone, a hormone that has an effect upon the scalp's hair follicles.

Often very alarming, and sometimes somewhat upsetting, the onset of MPB at an early age can come as something of a shock for anybody no matter how prepared you are. Unfortunately it is not uncommon for men of around 20 to notice the early signs of MPB such as a receding hair line. Androgenetic alopecia can start at any time but commonly between the ages of 20 - 50. Sadly, if your father developed MPB at an early age it is highly likely that the same will happen to you as the problem is genetic.

The need to look good has always been important but today's society seems to be focused on the need to look young and healthy at all times. One of the most obvious signs of aging, besides wrinkles, is male pattern baldness. It should, therefore, come as little surprise that the industry involved hair loss is massive. Luckily the drug companies are always looking for a miracle cure for baldness and, happily, there are a few things that we can do to combat MPB.

Until recently, because male pattern baldness is more of an eventuality than a medical condition, there was very little that could be done other than some rather experimental cosmetic surgery (which was often a disaster) or the use of wigs and hair pieces (which could lead to some embarrassing situations). Happily, in recent years, there have been a couple of medical breakthroughs that have helped to create two incredible treatments for MPB.

One of the treatments for MPB which is becoming widely known is Rogaine which uses the magic ingredient called Minoxidil. Minoxidil stops hair loss from the scalp but it has to be used all the time as stoping using this topical medication results in the resumption of hair loss.

Finasteride is another wonder drug for the treatment of MPB. Widely available in products such as Propecia and Proscar, Finasteride is an oral medication that stimulates the hair follicles on the head by halting the production of dihydrotestosterone. Like Minoxidil, Finasteride needs to be taken regularly as stoping the medication results in the body, once agaiin, producing the hormone resulting in hair loss.

Cosmetic surgery for male pattern baldness is incredible but, if it goes wrong, it can be a complete nightmare. Please, if you are planning such cosmetic surgery, do not take short cuts. Make use you use the best cosmetic surgeon available in your area. After all, we are talking about one of the most visible parts of your body.

The oldest solution to male pattern baldness is the wig. The butt of many jokes the wig can be the solution you have been looking for. Of course, if you choose unwisely you could end up looking somewhat ridiculous but today it is possible to buy wigs that are of the highest quality. The best wigs are expensive but they are well worth the investment. Using real hair it is possible to find all different hair styles and colors so finding one that it perfect for you should not be a problem.