Hair loss, particularly in the form of a receding hairline, is a common issue that various prominent figures, including celebrities and everyday individuals, experience throughout their lives. This condition is characterized by a gradual thinning of hair on the temples, which can take on distinctive shapes, such as an “M,” “U,” or “V,” when viewed from above. Many men feel self-conscious about this natural occurrence, despite its prevalence, with research indicating that approximately 50% of individuals will experience some form of hair loss by the age of 50. Dermatologist Dr. Corazon Almira T. Mella from Makati Medical Center notes that receding hairlines are influenced not only by aging but also significantly by genetic and hormonal factors. Some men may begin to notice hair loss as early as their twenties. In addition to genetics and hormones, factors such as stress, certain medications, and nutritional deficiencies can also influence hair growth and health. Treatments for hair loss vary from lifestyle adjustments to scientifically supported medical interventions, addressing the multifaceted nature of this common condition.
There’s no cure for receding hairlines. “But you can delay its progression or increase the thickness of hair strands on your head with solutions that range from simple lifestyle changes to science-backed treatments,” suggests the MakatiMed dermatologist.
Manage your haircare routine. “Use shampoos specifically formulated to strengthen your scalp and make your hair more robust. Sulfate-free shampoos are advisable,” shares Dr. Mella. “You can also ask your barber to recommend a more flattering hairstyle. Guys with receding hairlines can wear their hair slicked back, get a close-to-the-scalp buzzcut, or take it all off and go bald.”
Tweak your diet. Protein, healthy fats, and vitamins contribute to luscious hair. “Go for lean protein. Omega-3-rich salmon and mackerel are said to promote hair growth, and eggs contain biotin or vitamin B7, which strengthens hair,” says Dr. Mella.
Reduce stress. Do you know that there’s actually a name for stress-induced hair loss? “In telogen effluvium, hair falls in clumps following a stressful situation. It certainly doesn’t help men with receding hairlines,” explains Dr. Mella. Engaging in regular exercise (from walking and running to swimming and yoga), getting at least eight hours of sleep, and spending time with loved ones can calm frayed nerves. It’s also important to understand that in telogen effluvium, the hair shedding is temporary. If the condition has been ongoing for some time, a proper evaluation and laboratory investigation are required.
Take prescription medication. Although minoxidil, a topical formulation that stimulates hair growth, is available over the counter, variants with a higher percentage of minoxidil require a doctor’s prescription. Similarly, finasteride, an oral medication, reduces the production of DHT (dihydrotestosterone), a naturally occurring hormone that contributes to hair loss. “As mentioned, these medications are not a cure, and only work for as long as you continue to use them. Commitment to the medications is as important as the treatment itself,” reminds Dr. Mella.
Explore minimally invasive procedures. When you’ve tried the recommendations above but failed to get the desired results, it’s time to look into the big guns of hair growth.
“Microneedling stimulates the production of collagen through the puncture of tiny needles on the scalp,” says Dr. Mella. “Low-Level Laser Therapy subjects a patient’s scalp to low-power lasers, which trigger hair follicle activity. In Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) injections, a patient is administered their own concentrated platelets on the scalp, where growth factors stimulate hair follicles. Exosome Therapy also relies on growth factors, in this case, from the tiny vesicles released by a patient’s cells.”
For surgery, hair restoration surgery in the form of follicular unit extraction, where the surgeon transfers the follicles from the sides and back of a patient’s head to the thinning or hairless parts in the front for a more natural look. Out of all the options, hair restoration surgery offers more tangible and long-lasting results. It is available at Makati Medical Center as an outpatient service.
Given all these solutions, Dr. Mella underlines a personalized approach to address hair loss: “What’s important to remember is that what works for someone may not work for you, and vice versa. Consult with your doctor on the most effective solution—or combination of solutions—for your type of condition, and be patient with the outcome.”
For more information, please get in touch with MakatiMed On-Call at +632.88888 999, email [email protected], or visit www.makatimed.net.ph. Follow @IamMakatiMed on Facebook and Twitter.
