African American Male Hair Loss
Although one might first wonder what is so special about hair loss in African American males when almost everyone goes through similar experiences, there are some reasons for singling them out. In fact, as far as hair loss is concerned, there are some differences between African American males and their Caucasian counterparts. Although the frequency and level of hair loss may be similar in both, the loss does not appear so marked in African Americans as they usually have greater hair density because of its usually curly nature. Moreover, their hair grows in a different way.
In the case of African American males, both the hair and the hair follicles are often curved, which can affect hair loss treatment if they need so. The causes of hair loss in African American males are similar to those of others. They include among others
hereditary factors, over processing, some types of certain hairstyles, bad diet, thyroid disease, and certain medicines. A familiar cause of hair loss in African American males is clogged hair follicles. This takes place when a person uses a lot of heavy conditioners or other greasy products on his hair. If there is lack of adequate amount of protein in a person's diet, hair loss is almost inevitable because hair is made of protein.
Vitamins and some minerals are also essential for healthy hair. So, a person must use vitamin and mineral supplements if anyone finds it difficult to have all the necessary nutrients in his diet. These factors are responsible for hair loss in most African American males.
African American males have several options for hair loss treatment depending on its cause. If a man loses his hair because of thyroid disease or medication, it is necessary to seek medical treatment. It is never wise to stop using any medication unless the doctor tells you to do so. There are other methods to be tried if the cause of hair loss is hereditary. Some topical solutions may also be used on the scalp, such as Rogaine. Although these solutions work in many cases, but they must be used on a daily basis for a prolonged period of time. More importantly, one must consider their possible side effects also.
For both African American males and females, hair transplant can be an effective remedy for hair loss. In such a transplant, a surgeon takes a plug of hair from an area where the density of hair is high and transplants it in a spot which has suffered hair loss. It is, however, extremely important to find a competent surgeon, since the hair of African American people grows differently than that of Caucasian people. As the hair and the hair follicles of African Americans are curved, it requires great skill to remove hair from the right spot.
Many African American males are still more interested in natural treatments for hair loss than hair transplants. They also are not comfortable with the idea of using the topical solutions because of their likely side effects. They prefer to use natural products as these are also helpful for improving their overall health. Such natural products containing vitamins, minerals etc. nourish not just the hair, but the whole body.