Introduction
AGA (male pattern baldness) is a progressive hair loss disorder faced by many men. In addition to conventional treatments, cryotherapy (cooling therapy) is gaining attention as a new approach to AGA treatment. Cryotherapy is a method that uses cryogenic temperatures to enhance the body’s healing ability and promote health. This article details how cryotherapy can help treat AGA, its specific methods, and its scientific basis.
AGAとは？
AGA is caused by DHT (dihydrotestosterone), which is produced by the male hormone testosterone under the influence of an enzyme DHT acts on hair follicles and shortens the hair growth cycle, resulting in hair loss The progression of AGA involves the following stages
Early stage: thinning of the frontal hairline and the crown of the head.
Mid-term stage: Thinning of hair in the frontal and parietal areas progresses, and the surface of the skin becomes easily visible.
Progressive stage: The frontal and parietal areas become even thinner, leaving only the temporal and occipital areas.
What is cryotherapy?
Cryotherapy is a treatment that uses cryogenic temperatures to cool the body, either partially or totally. Methods range from localized cooling (ice packs and cooling sprays) to whole-body cryotherapy (WBC), which exposes the entire body to a low-temperature environment. Cryotherapy is expected to have a wide range of health benefits, including reducing inflammation, increasing circulation, relieving pain, and improving immune function.
Impact of Cryotherapy on AGA
Hemodynamic facilitation
Cryotherapy has the effect of temporarily constricting blood vessels and subsequently increasing blood flow. This improves blood flow to the scalp and facilitates the distribution of necessary nutrients and oxygen to the hair follicles. Promoting blood circulation is important for the health and growth of hair.
Reduction of inflammation
AGA may involve inflammation. Cryotherapy reduces inflammation and improves scalp health. Reduced inflammation improves the environment of the hair follicles and promotes hair growth.
Stress Reduction
Cooling therapy reduces the secretion of stress hormones and provides a relaxing effect. Since stress is one of the factors that accelerate the progression of AGA, stress reduction is effective in AGA treatment.
Specific Methods of Cryotherapy
Local cryotherapy
Topical cryotherapy is a method of cooling a specific area; in AGA treatment, cooling is applied to the scalp.
Ice pack: Apply a cold ice pack to the scalp for several minutes. Repeat several times a day.
Cooling spray: Spray the cooling spray directly onto the scalp. Once adequately cooled, massage.
Whole Body Cryotherapy (WBC)
Whole body cryotherapy is a method of exposing the entire body to a low-temperature environment. The entire body is cooled by entering a special cryotherapy chamber.
Preparation: Before entering the cryotherapy chamber, wear appropriate clothing (e.g., thermal gloves and socks).
Session: The patient is exposed to cryogenic temperatures (-110°C to -140°C) for 2 to 3 minutes in the chamber.
After completion: After exiting the chamber, warm up slowly.
The Roots of Science
Many studies have been conducted on the effectiveness of cryotherapy. For example, cooling therapy has been shown to reduce inflammation and promote circulation. It has also been reported to reduce the release of stress hormones, which has been shown to contribute to relaxation and promote health. Although direct studies on AGA are limited, these effects may indirectly contribute to hair health.
Notes on Cryotherapy
Physical condition: Due to exposure to extremely low temperatures, it is important to consult with a physician in advance if you have cardiovascular problems or sensitivity to cold.
Moderate use: Excessive use of cryotherapy can be counterproductive, so moderate frequency is recommended.
Professional guidance: It is safe to receive professional guidance, especially when performing whole body cryotherapy, in a specialized facility.
Summary
Cryotherapy is a new treatment option for men suffering from AGA. It is expected to promote blood circulation, reduce inflammation, alleviate stress, and much more. Incorporating cryotherapy in an appropriate manner and combining it with other AGA treatments will yield more effective results.
AGA Treatment at HIRO CLINIC
AGA (androgenetic alopecia) is a disease called androgenetic alopecia, which, if left untreated, will progress and require early treatment. HIRO CLINIC uses the most advanced regenerative medicine technology to treat AGA. Our expert physicians will propose the appropriate treatment for each individual and support your concerns to the best of their ability.
