You At Your Best

Attitude goes a long way in regard to self-esteem. With a positive spin, it's possible to get through difficult situations and even have a favorable outlook on getting older. But even the most optimistic among us may at times worry about the physical signs of aging and wonder what can be done to make them feel and look their best. Wrinkles and a little extra weight around the middle certainly garner attention, but hair loss is another age-related concern. As men age, their hair changes in several ways. Graying through loss of melanin pigment is the most apparent. MedlinePlus, the health information resource from the U.S. National Library of Medicine, says that strands of hair also can become less dense and smaller through the years. Many follicles also may stop producing new hairs. Regardless of age, it is customary for a person to lose about 100 hairs a day. If those hairs are not replaced as readily as they once were, patches of thinning and balding hair may appear. The rate at which hair falls out is largely determined by genetics. But nearly everyone will experience some sort of age-related hair loss. Millions of men and women experience hair loss in some shape or form in their lives. The Hair Society, a hair-loss information group, says that approximately 35 million men and 21 million women suffer from hair loss, and people are more likely to experience hair loss as they age. Androgenetic alopecia (male pattern baldness) can begin to affect men in their mid- to late-20s, with displays of baldness growing in their 30s and 40s, says Bosley, a hair-loss treatment company. This is a hereditary condition that will only continue through life without intervention. There are many ways to mitigate hair loss. Oftentimes, addressing the underlying condition causing hair loss can bring about regrowth. For those with hereditary hair loss, medications (topical, injections and pills); laser hair therapy; surgical or nonsurgical procedures; scalp treatments; like scalp reduction or scalp flaps; and other options may go a long way toward restoring hair volume. Various hair-loss specialists offer free evaluations to people who want to learn about hair loss. Concerned men also can speak to a dermatologist if hair loss is a concern. Here are some handy tips for dealing with hair loss: Try a new cut Work with your stylist to determine a haircut that can suggest the appearance of thickness and camouflage the loss of density or bare spots. Men can choose to go entirely bald and bold. Treat hair gently Avoid harsh chemical processes and constant heat styling. Protect fragile hair from damage by pampering it. Look for thickening formulas Many shampoos, serums and conditioners tout volumizing or thickening properties. These can help plump up hair and make thinning less apparent. Talk to your doctor Hair loss may be a result of medication, a skin condition or aging. Doctors may suggest products, such as Minoxidil and Lipogaine formulas, that can be used on the scalp to reduce hair loss and help follicles produce new hair strands. Hair thinning and hair loss can be a symptom of getting older. Knowledge is key to improve hair's appearance at any age. Coping with HaIr lOSS sPeCiAl to NWA DeMoCrAt-gAzette 10 | YOU AT YOUR BEST | nwAdg.cOm/YOUATYOURBEST AUgUST - mEn'S HEAlTH | SATURdAY, JUlY 27, 2019

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