Androgenetic Alopecia (AGA), commonly known as male or female pattern baldness, is the most prevalent cause of hair loss in both men and women. It is a genetically determined condition characterized by the progressive miniaturization of hair follicles, leading to thinning hair and eventual baldness. Fortunately, advancements in medical science offer multiple treatment options, ranging from pharmacological drugs to surgical procedures such as hair transplants.
AGA Treatment Drugs
The two most widely used FDA-approved drugs for AGA are Minoxidil and Finasteride. Both target the root causes of hair loss and can help slow down or even partially reverse the process when used consistently.
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Minoxidil: Originally developed as a treatment for high blood pressure, Minoxidil was discovered to promote hair growth as a side effect. Applied topically, it improves blood circulation to the scalp, prolongs the anagen (growth) phase of the hair cycle, and enlarges aga治療効果早い人 miniaturized follicles. It is available over-the-counter in 2% and 5% formulations and is suitable for both men and women.
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Finasteride: This oral medication works by inhibiting the enzyme 5-alpha-reductase, which converts testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT is the hormone largely responsible for shrinking hair follicles in genetically predisposed individuals. By reducing DHT levels, Finasteride slows hair loss and stimulates regrowth in some users. However, it is approved only for men and may have side effects such as reduced libido or sexual dysfunction.
Other emerging treatments include Dutasteride (a more potent DHT blocker than Finasteride), low-level laser therapy (LLLT), and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections—all offering varying degrees of effectiveness depending on the individual.
Hair Transplants
While medications can be effective for early to moderate AGA, advanced cases with significant hair loss may require hair transplantation—a surgical solution that offers permanent results.
The two most common hair transplant techniques are:
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FUT (Follicular Unit Transplantation): Also known as the strip method, FUT involves removing a strip of scalp from the back of the head, dissecting it into follicular units, and transplanting them into bald or thinning areas. This method is generally more invasive and leaves a linear scar, but it allows for the transplantation of a large number of grafts in one session.
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FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction): In FUE, individual hair follicles are extracted directly from the donor area and implanted into the recipient site. This method is less invasive, leaves minimal scarring, and has a quicker recovery time. It is currently the most preferred method due to its precision and natural-looking results.
Treating AGA effectively requires a personalized approach. While medications like Minoxidil and Finasteride can be helpful in the early stages, hair transplants provide a more permanent and aesthetic solution for those with extensive hair loss. Consultation with a dermatologist or a certified hair restoration specialist is essential to determine the most suitable treatment plan, balancing efficacy, safety, and personal preferences.