Hair loss: Dr Ranj discusses causes of male pattern baldness
If there is any marketplace vulnerable to con artists it is the hair loss market. Insufficient research combined with the emotive nature of hair loss provides an open invitation for tricksters. The market may be awash with empty claims but there is some research to guide you in this arena.
Although limited, research suggests supplements containing methylsulfonylmethane (MSM)- a sulfur chemical compound found in plants, animals, and humans – may promote hair growth.
MSM is commonly used as an oral supplement to treat arthritis pain and swelling but evidence suggests its remedial benefits may extend to hair loss.
According to research, MSM sulfur can form bonds essential to strengthening hair and influencing hair growth.
One study tested the effect of MSM and magnesium ascorbyl phosphate (MAP) on hair growth and alopecia treatment.
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The test was performed on mice over the course of 20 days.
Researchers applied varying percentages of MAP and MSM solutions to their backs.
This study concluded that hair growth depended on how much MSM was applied in conjunction with MAP.
Toxicity studies show that MSM is safe to take in higher doses ranging from 500 milligrams to three grams daily.
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Tried-and-tested treatments
There are other things you can try if your hair loss is causing you distress.
But most treatments aren’t available on the NHS, so you’ll have to pay for them.
It is worth noting that no treatment is 100 percent effective.
According to the NHS, finasteride and minoxidil are the main treatments for male pattern baldness.
Male pattern baldness is a permanent type of hair loss that usually runs in the family.
Minoxidil can also be used to treat female pattern baldness but women shouldn’t use finasteride, warns the NHS.
As the health body notes, there are other drawbacks to consider before taking these drugs.
These treatments:
- Don’t work for everyone
- Only work for as long as they’re used
- Aren’t available on the NHS
- Can be expensive.
Some wigs are available on the NHS, but you may have to pay unless you qualify for financial help.
You can get free wigs and fabric supports if you are:
- Under 16
- 16-18 and in full-time education
- A hospital inpatient
- A war pensioner and the wig or fabric support is for your accepted disablement and you have a valid war pension exemption certificate.
You can also get free wigs and fabric support if you or your partner – including civil partner – receive, or you’re under the age of 20 and the dependant of someone receiving:
- Income Support
- Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance
- Income-related Employment and Support Allowance
- Pension Credit Guarantee Credit
- Universal Credit and meet the criteria – you can use this NHS website to check your eligibility.
You may also benefit from joining a support group, or speaking to other people in the same situation on online forums.
Try these online support groups:
- Alopecia UK
- Alopecia Awareness.
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