Androgenetic alopecia: hair loss
What is it?
Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is the abnormal hair loss of the scalp, creating bald patches and potential complete baldness from the front of the scalp to the crown of the head. This form of alopecia is non-scarring, meaning there is potential for regrowth with adequate treatment. [6] [37]
How does it occur?
A common misconception is that AGA is caused by elevated testosterone; however, testosterone levels remain the same, but there is an increase in conversion from testosterone to the hormone DHT.
The increased DHT activity encourages secretion of transforming growth factor which inhibit hair growth and development of the affiliated hair follicles, causing shrinkage of the hair follicle and insufficient anagen phase (hair developmental stage), resulting in the hair transforming from terminal hair (thick, coloured long hair) to vellus hair (fine, colourless hair with stagnant growth) and eventually inactivity/ no hair. [37] [11]
Treatment options
Microneedling
Creates microtraumas within the skin, signalling an influx of restorative and inflammatory cells used to repair the function and integrity of the skin. This wound healing cascade triggers a multitude of growth factors and increases blood flow to the area, ensuring sufficient oxygen and nutrient delivery for optimal functioning and growth. [8] [36]
The microchannels created also allow for direct product and ingredient delivery, allowing it to enter the skin at a deeper and more efficient level. Hair treatments such as minoxidil may enhance the treatment’s effects.
​
Low Level Light Therapy (LLLT) and Light Emitting Diodes (LED);
Both devices utilise the theory of photobiomodulation, which is the process of using non-thermal diffused light to energise cells, stimulate a multitude of growth factors for proliferative effects and increase microcirculation. All of which are essential for feeding new hair growth and follicular excitement. [8] [36]