Dad’s rejoice! Hair loss has many causes but it’s not likely your kids. As a father of three, I have often joked that having kids was the reason I was losing my hair. Not true.

Over 50% of men over the age of 50 will experience hair loss. The most common reason for hair loss is androgenic alopecia (AGA), which is the term that has replaced “male pattern hair loss”. It means genetic hair loss and it is very common. The main problem in AGA is that at the follicle, your testosterone converts into a breakdown product called DHT (di-hydro testosterone). The DHT builds up and puts pressure on the follicle because it is not cleared away properly and this causes a gradual miniaturization of the hair follicle. The result is that your hairs gradually become thinner and thinner, and eventually fall out for good.

So that is the bad news. The good news is that you can do something about it. Over the years, several treatments have been developed for AGA. Finasteride (brand name Propecia) has been around for over two decades and reduces the amount of DHT you produce, thus helping stabilize the follicle growth and saving your hair. Minoxidil (brand name Rogaine) also helps your hair to thicken and stabilize. Lasercaps (several brand names) work by bathing the scalp in special laser energy that helps to reduce the DHT in the follicle and thus stabilizing the follicle. And the newest treatment is PRP (platelet-rich plasma), which stimulates follicle repair and growth.

There are many effective hair loss treatment options available to you, no matter your budget or lifestyle. Take time this Father’s Day to appreciate your kids and your fathers. And treat yourself by coming in for a free hair loss consultation.