Androgenetic Alopecia: A Chronic Condition Or Just Hair Loss?

Androgenetic alopecia (AGA), commonly known as male or female pattern baldness, is not just a cosmetic concern. It is increasingly being compared to chronic diseases. Why? Because, like chronic diseases, AGA is a long-term, progressive condition that requires ongoing management rather than a one-time treatment. This shift in perception is crucial for those affected by AGA and for the healthcare professionals who treat them. Let us explore why AGA is being seen in a new light and what this means for those experiencing it.

As someone who has experienced AGA firsthand, I can attest to the fact that it is more than just hair loss. I was diagnosed with this condition over 20 years ago, and the journey has been transformative. Much like managing diabetes, treating AGA requires consistent care and attention. When I first noticed hair loss, I realized it was crucial to act immediately. Hair loss, like diabetes, doesn’t resolve on its own. I have now been under treatment with lotions and tablets daily and with therapies like the QR678 hair regrowth treatment, once every 3 months - It is not easy following this regimented life, but I have only one of two options - Treat the disease regularly and retain my hair OR dont treat it and lose all my hair in due course of time. Once I understood this, making a choice became easier for me.

If left untreated, AGA can progress and become increasingly difficult to manage. By the time the scalp becomes visible, it’s likely that around 30% of the hair has already been lost—putting you behind the curve. That's why starting treatment early and maintaining it consistently is essential. Regular treatments, including medications and therapies, can help preserve hair, proving that control is achievable even without a cure.

A growing concern

AGA is the most common form of hair loss, affecting approximately 50 million men and 30 million women in the United States alone. By age 50, nearly half of all men and women will experience some form of hair thinning or loss. This prevalence makes it clear that AGA is not just a minor inconvenience but a widespread issue impacting a significant portion of the population.

Much like chronic diseases such as diabetes or hypertension, AGA is characterized by its gradual progression. The hair follicles shrink over time, leading to thinner hair and eventual hair loss. This process is driven by genetic and hormonal factors, primarily the action of dihydrotestosterone (DHT) on hair follicles.

In chronic diseases, individuals often seek regular medical attention, adhere to treatment plans, and make lifestyle adjustments to manage their condition. The same approach is increasingly being advocated for AGA. Ignoring the condition or hoping it will resolve on its own is not effective. Instead, proactive, and continuous treatment is necessary to manage hair loss and maintain scalp health.

The psychological impact

Hair loss can have a profound psychological impact, leading to decreased self-esteem and increased anxiety or depression. This emotional toll further aligns AGA with chronic diseases, which often have psychological components that require attention alongside physical symptoms. RecogniSing AGA as a condition that can significantly affect quality of life underscores the need for serious and consistent management.

Treatment approaches

Treating AGA effectively requires a multi-faceted approach similar to that used for chronic diseases. Here are some of the methods used:

• Minoxidil: A popular topical medication that may stimulate hair growth.

• Topical Corticosteroids: These can help reduce inflammation on the scalp, potentially promoting a healthier environment for hair growth.

• Serums and Hair Oils: Specialised formulations nourish the scalp and support hair health.

• Oral Medications: For some individuals, medications like finasteride, dutasteride, or spironolactone may be prescribed to address the underlying hormonal causes of hair loss.

• Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy: PRP concentrates growth factors from your blood and injects them into the scalp to potentially stimulate hair growth.

• Growth Factor Concentrate (GFC): Similar to PRP, GFC uses a concentrated solution derived from your blood to promote hair growth.

• Stem Cell Treatment: This cutting-edge technique utilizes stem cells and growth factors injected into the scalp to potentially regenerate hair follicles.

• QR678 Neo: This treatment uses biomimetic polypeptides (hair growth factors) that mimic natural growth factors, acting as the S.P.A.R.K. that Activates dormant hair follicles and promotes regrowth in Androgenetic Alopecia by Safeguarding against inflammation, Preventing DHT damage, Activating growth, Rejuvenating follicles, and Keeping hair in the anagen hair growth phase.

• Hair Transplant Surgery: This involves transplanting hair follicles from a donor area to areas of thinning or balding.

• Scalp Micropigmentation: A cosmetic technique that creates the appearance of hair on the scalp through tattooing.

• Nutritional Supplements: Biotin, vitamins, and minerals can support overall hair health. While not a standalone solution, they can complement other treatments and provide additional support.

Recognising AGA as a condition that deserves the same attention and care as chronic diseases is crucial. Individuals experiencing hair loss should seek professional evaluation and treatment, just as they would for any other chronic condition. By doing so, they can manage their hair loss more effectively and improve their quality of life. Viewing AGA through the lens of chronic disease enables us to better address its complexities and offer more effective solutions to those affected.

Dr Debraj Shome

Guest Author Senior Cosmetic Surgeon and Medical Advisor, QR678.