Genetic baldness can affect anyone, regardless of gender and age. You may naturally have thin hair or bald patches on your head, even from childhood. It could be an inherited trait from your parents, grandparents, or great-grandparents, and there is nothing you can do to reverse it. 

As distressing as it is, genetic hair loss can be reversed through procedures like hair transplants. Although the outcome from such processes appears slow, they’re worth a try to have a head full of rich, luscious hair.

While genetics play a vital role in hair loss, factors such as medication, stress, and diet strongly influence hair growth. So, you need to evaluate the root cause of the issue with a professional healthcare provider before blaming it all on your genetics.

Genetic Balding: A Brief Overview

Genetic-induced hair loss occurs in very predictable patterns, a medical condition called androgenic alopecia. Depending on the gender, there are generally two types of baldness: female pattern baldness (FPB) and male pattern baldness (MPB).

Male Pattern Baldness (MPB)

MPB often starts as soon as a male enters his 20s or 30s. Hair begins falling at the front of the scalp, resulting in an M-shape recession. It is thought (not yet clear) that MPB’s genetic component is polygenic, meaning more than one gene is involved in hair loss. 

Men have one X chromosome and one Y chromosome. Baldness is usually related to the AR gene found on the X chromosome. According to a study, men with this gene are more at risk of developing MPB than those without it.

Scientists have also identified another gene, FOXC1, which is associated with the hair follicle’s development. Variations in FOXC1 can reduce the number of hair follicles, leading to hair loss. 

In addition, the LSS gene is also considered a culprit in this case. It is linked with the production of a protein, Lanosterol, which promotes hair growth. Changes in the gene can lead to a fall in protein production, resulting in gradual baldness. 

Women Pattern Baldness (WPB)

When it comes to women, the female pattern baldness has an unknown genetic component. However, it is thought that it may also involve several genes. 

Many women often lose their hair after menopause. This could be due to the conversion of testosterone to estradiol.  

Other Reasons for Hair Loss

While genetics play a crucial role in baldness, other factors might also contribute to your gradual hair loss. 

  • Hormonal Changes: Women often face several hormonal changes during pregnancy, thyroid problems, childbirth, and menopause. Hormones control the hair growth cycle, and a change in their levels results in gradual baldness. 
  • Alopecia Areata: If you suffer from this immune condition, you may experience hair loss in patches. 
  • Drugs: An intake of certain drugs to treat heart problems, depression, stress, and cancer can lead to hair loss. 
  • Hairstyle: If you are into styling your hair in a tight ponytail, you may see a temporary or permanent hair fall. This baldness is usually known as traction alopecia. 

Can You Avoid Hereditary Hair Loss? 

Hereditary hair loss is a part of the genetic blueprint. You can’t change your genes, but you can make small changes in your lifestyle to make your hair grow healthy and long. 

  1. Increase your protein intake to maintain normal hair production. Foods such as meat, eggs, fish and chicken are all high in proteins, making them appropriate to add to your diet. 
  2. Look after your hair as much as you can. Avoid heating products or chemicals that may ruin your hair growth or texture. Stop using lotions that may be heavily perfumed. 
  3. Don’t pull, rub, or twist your hair unnecessarily. Also, avoid tight hairstyles such as ponytails, buns, and braids. 
  4. Don’t expose your hair for long periods in the sun. 

Treat Your Genetic Hair Loss With the Best Hair Transplant Clinic in Antalya

Suppose the inevitable has happened, and you have lost most of your hair in your early years. You will look for ways to slow down hair loss or regain your fully-haired head. 

In such cases, a hair transplant is a great option. This cosmetic surgical procedure involves transplanting new hair follicles in the patient’s head to promote hair growth. But before you opt for this treatment, make sure to consult a specialist to evaluate your eligibility. 

At DK Hair Klinik, you can get a free consultation with our hair transplant experts to address your concerns about your hair. We listen to our patients from the start to the full recovery, helping them regain their beautiful hair hassle-free.