Table of contents:
- What is alopecia prematura?
- How does alopecia prematura occur?
- Characteristics of alopecia prematura
- What can you do about alopecia prematura?
What is alopecia prematura?
Alopecia prematura refers to premature hair loss that occurs in boys. This can start as early as around the age of 15 or 16. Hair loss is often a sign of genetic predisposition to baldness, meaning it may run in the family.
How does alopecia prematura occur?
Alopecia prematura usually occurs due to a combination of genetic and hormonal factors. Genetic factors are often linked to alopecia androgenetica as an underlying condition, also known as hereditary hair loss or male pattern baldness. This type of hair loss is caused by increased sensitivity of the hair follicles to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a derivative of the male hormone testosterone. This sensitivity leads to a reduction in the size of the hair follicles, causing the hair to become thinner and eventually fall out. In addition, hormonal changes during puberty play a major role in alopecia prematura. During this period, the body of teenagers undergoes significant changes in hormone levels. The increase in androgens, including testosterone, can lead to increased production of DHT, which contributes to hair loss. In addition to hormonal changes, teenagers also often experience physical and emotional changes and stress, which can exacerbate hair loss. A form of hair loss associated with hormonal changes and stress is telogen effluvium. This is an often temporary form of hair loss in which many hairs enter the resting phase (telogen phase), resulting in thinning hair all over the scalp. Although telogen effluvium is usually temporary, in teenagers with a genetic predisposition to hair loss, it can worsen the situation and contribute to the development of alopecia prematura.
Characteristics of alopecia prematura
The characteristics of alopecia prematura are similar to those of other types of hair loss. You may notice your hair thinning, especially at the crown or near the hairline. In some cases, hair loss can spread to the entire scalp. In men, it is often more visible and can lead to a receding hairline or bald patches. How your hair loss is characterised has to do with the underlying issue causing the hair loss. So it's important to find out by consulting a GP and/or dermatologist.
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What can you do about alopecia prematura?
Hair growth-stimulating treatments are only recommended for people aged 18 and above. This is because these products can affect hormones and have only been tested on adults. The effect on adolescents is not known. Happily, there are already some products you can use to support your hair growth or create a temporary camouflaging effect:
- MSM powder: MSM powder is a form of sulphur and an important component of our skin, connective tissue, hair, joints and nails. It does not affect hormones and can be safely used by young people to support hair growth.
- Mild shampoos: We recommend using a mild keratin shampoo that gives your hair more volume. This shampoo makes your hair thicker without irritating your scalp or affecting hormones.
- Keratin hair fibres: Keratin hair fibres are a temporary, cosmetic solution that helps hide thinner hair. The fibres attach to your existing hair, making your hair appear fuller. This gives a natural effect and many people are satisfied with this product.
Keratain hair fibers are made from organic keratin proteins and make your hair look fuller and thicker within seconds. The hair fibers make your hair look fuller and thicker; all day long.
- The fibres are completely wind and rain resistant.
- 7 different colours to match your own hair colour.
- The hair fibers are completely vegan.
We also recommend consulting a dermatologist who can create a treatment plan that suits you. A dermatologist can help you understand the causes of your hair loss and recommend safe and effective treatments.
