Hair Dyeing and Male Pattern Baldness: What You Need to Know

Hair dyeing and male pattern baldness?

Doctor, I would like to ask, since I was diagnosed with male pattern baldness stage II to III over a year ago, I have been taking finasteride for a year, but there has been no increase in hair growth during this time.
Does this mean that the medication is only maintaining my current hair and preventing further loss, and would I need to use topical solutions as well? Or would switching to a different brand like minoxidil be more effective? Additionally, since my diagnosis of male pattern baldness, I have not dyed my hair for over a year, but I have recently noticed an increase in gray hair and am considering dyeing it.
However, I am concerned about whether dyeing my hair will lead to further hair loss.
Could you advise me on whether it is safe to dye hair with male pattern baldness, or is it just that excessive dyeing should be avoided? Furthermore, if I dye my hair without touching the scalp and use hair care products, would that help prevent hair loss after dyeing?

Lawrunce, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/12/24

Dr. Wu Yuxin reply Dermatology

Hair dyeing and male pattern baldness are two different issues.
Hair loss caused by damage from dyeing needs to be evaluated in person.
I am not sure whether avoiding contact with the scalp and using hair care products after dyeing can help prevent hair loss.

Reply Date: 2016/12/24

More Info

When it comes to male pattern baldness (androgenetic alopecia), it is essential to understand the underlying causes, treatment options, and how certain practices, like hair dyeing, can impact hair health. Male pattern baldness is primarily driven by genetic factors and hormonal changes, particularly the effects of dihydrotestosterone (DHT) on hair follicles. This condition can lead to thinning hair and baldness, typically starting at the temples and crown of the head.

Treatment Options
You mentioned that you have been using finasteride (commonly known as Propecia) for over a year without noticeable hair regrowth. Finasteride is effective for many individuals in preventing further hair loss, but it may not always lead to significant regrowth. It works by inhibiting the conversion of testosterone to DHT, which is responsible for hair follicle miniaturization. If you are not seeing results, it might be worth discussing with your dermatologist the possibility of adding topical treatments like minoxidil (Rogaine), which can stimulate hair growth and is often used in conjunction with finasteride.

Switching between brands of finasteride, such as to a product like Dutasteride (Avodart), may also be an option, as it has a broader mechanism of action by inhibiting both types of the enzyme that converts testosterone to DHT. However, any changes to your medication should be done under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

Hair Dyeing and Its Effects
Regarding hair dyeing, it is a common concern among individuals experiencing hair loss. The primary worry is whether dyeing hair can exacerbate hair loss. Generally, hair dyeing itself does not cause male pattern baldness. However, harsh chemicals in some hair dyes can damage hair and potentially lead to breakage, which may give the appearance of thinning hair.
If you are considering dyeing your hair, it is advisable to choose gentler, ammonia-free products and to avoid applying dye directly to the scalp, as this can irritate the skin and hair follicles. Additionally, using a good conditioner and hair care products designed to nourish and protect hair can help maintain its health.

Preventing Hair Loss While Dyeing
If you decide to dye your hair, here are some tips to minimize potential damage:
1. Avoid Direct Scalp Application: Try to keep the dye away from the scalp to reduce irritation.

2. Use Quality Products: Opt for high-quality, less damaging hair dyes.

3. Conditioning Treatments: Regularly use deep conditioning treatments to keep hair hydrated and healthy.

4. Limit Frequency: Avoid frequent dyeing; give your hair time to recover between treatments.

5. Consult a Professional: If you are unsure, consult a professional hairstylist who can recommend the best practices for your hair type.

Conclusion
In summary, while male pattern baldness is a challenging condition influenced by genetics and hormones, there are effective treatments available. If you are not seeing results from your current regimen, consider discussing additional options with your dermatologist. Hair dyeing does not inherently cause hair loss, but care should be taken to minimize damage. Always prioritize the health of your hair and scalp, and consult professionals when in doubt. Remember, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and stress management, can also contribute positively to hair health.

Similar Q&A

Understanding the Link Between Testosterone Levels and Male Pattern Baldness

Recently, I was diagnosed with androgenetic alopecia at the dermatology clinic. Since I am only 19 years old, I would like to know if this is related to elevated levels of androgens in my body.

Dr. Sun Hongshun reply Urology
Hello: The primary causes of male pattern baldness are genetics and hormones. Patients with male pattern baldness have a higher concentration of 5α-reductase in their scalp, which converts testosterone into a more potent androgen. This process shortens the hair growth phase, lead...

Understanding Male Pattern Baldness: Causes, Treatments, and Future Solutions

Symptoms (Location, Description): I have been diagnosed with androgenetic alopecia by a dermatologist, and there is a family history of hair loss on my father's side. My questions are as follows: 1. Can excessive stress cause hair loss (alopecia areata)? 2. Are the treatment...

Dr. Wu Yuxin reply Dermatology
1. The most common cause of alopecia areata is stress. 2. I'm not very familiar with Edlanza; you might want to inquire further. 3. Protein shampoos do not promote hair growth. 4. Male pattern baldness cannot be cured; it can only be delayed or improved. 5. For surgi...

Understanding Male Pattern Baldness: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments

What is the definition of male pattern baldness? I'm still relatively young, but I've been experiencing hair loss since around the age of 20. In my teenage years, I had dandruff on my scalp, but now I no longer have it. My hair loss is starting from the forehead to the ...

Dr. Zheng Lizhen reply Dermatology
Male pattern baldness is a phenomenon where hair gradually becomes sparse under the influence of male hormones. The concentration of male hormones in the body is normal, but the hair follicles are more sensitive to these hormones. Patients initially notice that their hair becomes...

Understanding Hair Loss: Differentiating Between Male Pattern Baldness and Telogen Effluvium

Dear Dr. Huang, Is it true that men with male pattern baldness tend to have a stronger libido? Recently, I experienced hair loss and thought it might be male pattern baldness. After visiting a dermatologist, I was diagnosed with scalp inflammation (seborrheic dermatitis). Since...

Dr. Huang Ruiyun reply Dermatology
No, you don't look like you have male pattern baldness at all; you're just overthinking it.