A new study has cracked the code on the cause of a rare form of hair loss known as hypotrichosis simplex. These findings are now a solid foundation for further research, insinuating that what you may have been blaming on age or stress could actually be directly correlated to heredity. Though every case is different, researchers can now pinpoint a gene that is responsible for this rare condition that takes effect at a young age.
Hypotrichosis simplex is a rare form of hair loss that starts to take its course at infancy, causing sparse and fine hair growth. As those affected grow older, the hair loss progresses, leaving adults who suffer from HS with very little hair on their scalp. The gene detected is said to lead to “the impairment of an important enzyme that has a crucial function in cholesterol metabolism.” According to Professor Regina C. Betz from the University Hospital of Bonn which conducted the study, this impairment affects the hair follicle as opposed to one’s cholesterol itself.
Because this form of hair loss, or alopecia, is so rare, these findings may not be the answer for everyone. It does, however, help researchers as they continue to find a treatment for male pattern baldness and other, more common forms of hair loss. In doing so, they hope to find new approaches to combating the condition as well as improving current medications aimed at regrowth and strengthening of the hair follicles. Of course, hair loss can be caused by many factors, notably stress, aging, hormone imbalance, and heredity, but the complete biological basis has yet to be discovered.
Until further treatment is available, there are other steps you can take to avoid male pattern baldness. Changes in lifestyle habits, medications or managing stress can help prevent premature hair loss, while prescription medications like Finasteride and Propecia have proven most effective in strengthening hair, slowing down loss.
Speak to a U.S. licensed physician at KwiKMed to see which medication is right for you and your hair loss: https://www.kwikmed.com/