AGA (androgenetic alopecia) is the leading cause of hair loss in men. AGA affects the hair growth cycle and causes hair loss. Here, we will explain in detail the relationship between the hair growth cycle and AGA.
Hair growth cycle
Hair growth occurs through three main phases. Each phase has a different role and is important in maintaining healthy hair.
Growth period (Anagen)
·period: 2~6 years
·Features: Hair grows and becomes longer during this period. Hair follicles actively divide and new hair is produced.
・Total percentage: Approximately 85-90% of hair is in this phase.
Catagen (catagen)
·period:2-3 weeks
·Features: This is the period when growth stops and hair follicles begin to shrink. Hair growth stops and the hair follicle prepares to enter a dormant state.
・Total percentage: Approximately 1% of hair is in this phase.
Telogen (telogen)
·period:2 to 3 months
·Features: This is the period when hair prepares to fall out. Once this phase ends, the old hair falls out and new hair begins to grow.
・Total percentage: Approximately 10-15% of hair is in this phase.
AGA and hair growth cycle
AGA has a major impact on the hair growth cycle. Specifically, the anagen phase is shortened and more hair enters the telogen phase. As a result, your hair tends to become thinner, shorter, and weaker.
Impact of AGA
Shortened anagen phase: In AGA, the hair growth phase is shorter than normal. This causes the hair to enter the catagen phase before it has fully grown.
Longer telogen phase: The telogen phase is longer, which slows down the growth of new hair. As a result, hair thinning progresses.
Miniaturization: New hair growth becomes thinner and shorter, reducing its apparent volume. This is due to the influence of DHT (dihydrotestosterone).
Role of DHT
DHT is a hormone converted from testosterone and is considered to be the main cause of AGA. DHT binds to hair follicles and has the following effects:
Hair follicle shrinkage: When DHT binds to the hair follicle, the hair follicle gradually shrinks and the hair becomes thinner.
Shortening of the anagen phase: Due to the influence of DHT, the hair anagen phase is shortened and hair growth is inhibited.
Loss of hair follicles: Long-term exposure to DHT can lead to complete loss of hair follicles and hair no longer grow.
AGA treatment and improvement of hair growth cycle
AGA treatment aims to restore the hair growth cycle to normal. Below are the main treatment methods and their effects.
Finasteride (Propecia)
Action: Inhibits 5α-reductase and reduces DHT production.
Effect: By reducing the effects of DHT, it prevents hair follicle shrinkage and extends the growth phase.
Minoxidil
Action: Dilates blood vessels and improves blood flow to the scalp.
Effect: Provides nutrition to hair follicles, prolongs the growth phase and shortens the resting phase. This promotes hair regrowth.
Dutasteride (Avolve)
Action: Inhibits 5α-reductase more strongly than finasteride.
Effect: further reduces the level of DHT and normalizes the hair growth cycle more effectively.
Healthy lifestyle and hair growth
A healthy lifestyle also has a positive impact on the hair growth cycle.
Nutritionally balanced diet: Get the vitamins, minerals, and protein your hair needs to stay healthy.
Regular exercise: Improves blood circulation and improves the supply of nutrients to the scalp.
Stress management: Stress can disrupt hormonal balance and worsen AGA. Find ways to relax and reduce stress.
Adequate sleep: Your body repairs and regenerates during sleep, which is also important for hair health.
In conclusion
AGA seriously affects the hair growth cycle and causes hair loss. Under the influence of DHT, the growth phase is shortened and the resting phase is prolonged, making hair thinner and weaker. A combination of appropriate treatment and healthy lifestyle habits can improve the hair growth cycle and slow the progression of AGA. Consult with a specialist to find the treatment that suits you and alleviate your hair loss concerns.
AGA treatment at Hiro Clinic
AGA (Androgenetic Alopecia) is a disease called male pattern baldness, which progresses if left untreated, so early treatment is necessary. The causes of AGA vary depending on the individual, but it is not a disease that cannot be treated. Hiro Clinic uses cutting-edge regenerative medicine technology to treat AGA. Our specialized doctors will suggest appropriate treatment methods tailored to each individual and will do their best to support your concerns.
