How to Identify and Prevent Balding on the Crown

A significant number of men suffer from male pattern baldness. While a strong genetic association exists with androgenetic alopecia or male pattern baldness, men without any genetic predisposition can also suffer from this depressing condition. Receding hairline, thinning hair or a bald patch can all be an early sign of male pattern baldness. Spotting such signs can be a traumatic experience, but fortunately, you have plenty of treatment options to stop or slow down hair loss.

This article includes an overview of the causes of male hair loss and its most effective treatment options.

Cause of the Balding Crown

A balding crown is one of the most common indications of androgenetic alopecia or male pattern baldness. It is a common perception that baldness occurs at an older age, but unfortunately, it is not entirely true. Some men can experience male pattern baldness at an early age, especially if there is a positive family history.

The leading cause behind male pattern baldness is a potent androgen called dihydrotestosterone (DHT). This hormone is derived from another male androgen testosterone with the help of an enzyme 5-alpha reductase. Normal levels of DHT play an essential role in developing primary and secondary male sexual characteristics.

However, if these levels exceed the normal range, certain negative impacts include weakened and damaged hair follicles. In addition, an abnormally large amount of DHT can gradually make hair follicles shrink and lose the ability to produce new hair (Ustuner, 2013).

Common Signs of Balding Crown

Changes leading to a balding crown are gradual, and it usually takes time for people to notice these changes. Early detection of hair thinning and receding hairline is the only way to take timely measures to stop the balding Crown before it is too late. Here are a few common signs that might be an early warning of a balding crown:

A receding Hairline

It is hard to notice hair loss at the Crown of your head as it is not easily visible in the mirror. However, a receding hairline is a classic and more prominent indication that you have a balding crown. In addition, you can notice thinning hair at the temples, or you are your hairline starts to creep backwards, resulting in an easily noticeable widow's peak (Murphy, 2021).

If you suspect a receding hairline, you should compare yourself in the mirror with an old picture of yourself.

Hair Loss at the Crown

The Crown of the head is the most challenging area of the head to see. Thinning of hair at the vertex of the head is also one of the most common early signs of male pattern baldness. If you notice any hair thinning at this spot, like when running fingers through your hair or styling your hair, you should ask someone to see if they notice any hair thinning. You can also use a bathroom and a hand mirror at a time to see this area yourself.

Thinning Hair

Losing hair daily is completely normal. Our heads contain about 100,000 hairs at a time, and we tend to shed 100 hairs daily. Hair growth is a continuous process of hair growth, shedding and re-growth (Murphy, 2021). Nevertheless, noticing considerably more hairs in your comb or shower drain could be a warning sign of male pattern baldness.

As baldness is caused by the miniaturization of hair follicles, your scalp can become slightly more sensitive to cold. The Crown of the head is one of the typical spots where hair thinning starts, which can later spread to other areas of the scalp.

How to Deal with a Balding Crown?

Finding any of the above-mentioned signs of male pattern baldness can be alarming for men. Still, many treatment options are available to tackle this problem. Many of these treatment options are affordable and readily available. Here is how you can deal with your impending baldness:

There is no need to panic

Hair is considered a considerable part of one's identity. Your confidence and self-esteem can take a significant hit if you start losing your hair. Although it is easier said than done, try and be calm. Take peace in the fact that there are many remedies for this condition, and it can be effectively stopped.

Find a Haircut that Hides Your Bald Spot Well

Having a bald spot can sometimes make it impossible for men to go for a hairstyle of their choosing. However, a bald spot does not mean you cannot have a stylish haircut. There are several hairstyle options you can choose from to hide your bald spot and rock a stylish look as well. Some of these haircuts include:

• Sleek pompadour
• Combover
• Buzzcut
• Side swept medium style
• Caesar cut

Try Hair Growth Medication

Two of the most popular and NHS-approved medications for hair growth are Finasteride and Minoxidil.

Finasteride

Finasteride is an oral prescription medication readily available under the brand Propecia. It has been proven to be highly effective for treating androgenetic alopecia. According to one study, using Finasteride for two years resulted in effective hair growth in 83% of men (Shapiro, 2003). This drug rejuvenates hair follicles by blocking the 5-alpha reductase enzyme, which is responsible for converting testosterone into DHT, as mentioned above.

Minoxidil

You can buy Minoxidil as an over-the-counter solution or foam under the brand name Rogaine. Minoxidil is believed to enhance hair follicles' health by increasing their blood supply. However, you will need to use this drug for at least four months to see significant results. It produces the best results combined with Finasteride (Adil, 2107).

Conclusion

Early detection of hair thinning and baldness is crucial for effectively treating male pattern baldness. Finasteride and Minoxidil are the best treatments for stopping and reversing hair growth if used regularly. However, it is essential to consult a relevant healthcare professional to discuss your case and diagnose the precise cause of baldness before starting any treatment.