Does Hair Loss Run in Families?

Yes, hair loss can be due to genetics. In fact, that’s the case often enough that there’s a so-called balding gene. 

Dr. Dana Brownell and the team at NeoGraft Hair Restoration in Westport, Connecticut, can help — even if you’ve inherited the tendency to lose hair. Here’s what you need to know about hair loss that runs in families and a truly remarkable approach to hair restoration.

The balding gene

Hair loss that’s caused by your DNA happens in a predictable pattern. Have you ever heard someone reference “male pattern baldness”? That’s one name for hair loss that occurs due to genetics. There’s a female pattern baldness, too. Inherited hair loss is also called androgenetic alopecia. 

In men, hereditary hair loss happens in an M-shaped pattern at the front of your scalp. It can start as early as your 20s or 30s. Around 80% of men experience male pattern baldness by the time they’re 80 years old.

Women may experience hair loss after menopause. Rather than the M-pattern common in men, women tend to notice a widening of their part, which is sometimes called the Ludwig pattern. About 50% of women begin to have female pattern baldness by age 80.

Other causes of hair loss

Not all hair loss is due to your genetic makeup. You can lose your hair due to age without it being male or female pattern baldness. If your hair begins to fall out in clumps and doesn’t follow a distinguishable pattern, it’s not likely androgenetic alopecia. 

Certain medical conditions can cause hair loss — for example, thyroid disorders and lupus are two well-known conditions that are often associated with hair loss. Another culprit is an autoimmune disorder called alopecia areata, which can cause sudden hair loss that leaves smooth, round patches on your scalp.

Various medications can cause hair loss. Surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy are also well-known causes of hair loss. 

How we treat genetic hair loss

Experts estimate that about four in every 10 people lose their hair due to genetics. However, having the gene for hair loss doesn’t necessarily mean it’s your destiny to go bald. If you’re unhappy with the fullness of your hair, you have options.

At NeoGraft Hair Restoration, we do exactly what our name says: we restore hair. If hair loss runs in your family and you’re worried about it happening to you, don’t hesitate to set up a consultation with Dr. Brownell.

We use a newer technique called follicular unit extraction or FUE to replace your lost hair. This approach minimizes the discomfort and scarring common with older hair transplant methods. 

The specialized NeoGraft equipment lessens the possibility of damaging your follicles during the transplantation. The result is that more of the follicles that are transplanted produce healthy hair over the long term. 

If you have relatives who have lost their hair and you’re concerned about your own hair loss, schedule an appointment at NeoGraft Hair Restoration in Westport, Connecticut, today.