Hair Loss basics

Most men will lose some hair and for most, when it starts, it’s not a lot of fun. But since male pattern baldness is related to testosterone production, the only sure fire cure is castration before puberty which curiously enough few men opt for.

Hair loss never killed anyone and some of the sexiest men on the planet – according to sources male and female - have little or no hair.

There are treatments (Finasteride and Minoxidil) that may slow down or, in some cases, stop hair loss but they usually stop working once you stop taking the tablets or using the lotion. Although they’re not available on the NHS, your doctor can tell you more about them.

Hair loss surgery has improved but is not yet truly invisible. Be careful. If you’re tempted, talk to your GP who can refer you to a decent surgeon or dermatologist. There are a lot of cowboys out there.

If you’re really struggling to come to terms with baldness, talk to someone. Hair loss may be a trigger to unhappiness and depression but it’s unlikely to be hair loss alone that is behind your feelings.

The bald and proud site Bald R US has a hall of fame. It’s very US-oriented but includes Shakespeare, Churchill, Sean Connery, Samuel L Jackson and Patrick Stewart.

• More on hair loss on malehealth
• Try also NHS Choices
• Bruce Willis photographed by Gage Skidmore.
   

This page was produced by malehealth, the Men's Health Forum's health information website for men of all ages, for the men's health app Bloke Noises. Download the app here.