Among the causes of hair loss in men and women there are environmental factors and genetic factors. Genetic testing allows you to find out if you have a predisposition to hair loss and prevent and treat it, tracking which treatments are most effective.
In order to combat hair loss and prevent baldness, it is essential to understand the reasons that cause this phenomenon. Baldness (androgenetic alopecia) and hair loss affect both men and women. In men, it is much more frequent and occurs as early as 20 years of age. In women, although it is more rare, it occurs more frequently after pregnancy or menopause.
Let’s see how genetics can determine hair loss and understand why DNA testing can be decisive in determine if you need greffe de cheveux (hair transplants).
Genetic Causes of Hair Loss
Studies show that genetics are responsible for 90% of hair loss in men and 60% in women.
The genes responsible for hair loss and androgenetic alopecia are mainly located on the X chromosome. The X chromosome encodes the androgen receptor, the group of hormones linked to hair loss. This explains why hair loss is more common in males, who produce a greater amount of androgens and, in particular, testosterone, which is “intercepted” by receptors present in the follicle.
In subjects who develop androgenetic alopecia or show a rapid and consistent hair loss, the enzyme 5-alpha reductase transforms testosterone into dihydrotestosterone. This “reworked” hormone reacts much more sensitively than normal testosterone with the androgen receptors present in the follicles, causing the weakening and shrinkage that are the basis of the process of thinning and hair loss.
This process is genetic and hereditary. As such, its causes can be intercepted at an early stage. This can be done through a specially developed genetic test and is a fundamental step. In most cases, when the subject decides to undergo the test, the follicle damage process is already at 50%. Therefore, it is of fundamental importance to undergo a genetic test when the first signs of hair loss or weakening appear, or even if there is an incidence of this phenomenon in your family.
The Genetic Test: Why it is Important
At Starks clinics, we perform Trichotest®, a test of the latest generation, certified worldwide. Through a simple salivary swab, fast and painless, it is possible to identify 48 different mutations in 13 genes responsible for alopecia and hair loss. The test reaches an accuracy of 99.9%.
Thanks to the knowledge acquired on the subject, the test allows an enormous advantage on hair loss and is the first step. It will enable the specialist to create a personalized and, therefore, much more effective therapy. If necessary, the specialist can integrate the transplantation with non-invasive treatments that better respond to each patient’s condition to avoid interventions that would be useless in the specific case.
The strategic effectiveness of the test increases exponentially if it is carried out early. Therefore, you should visit a Starks center if you suspect familiarity with hair loss or as soon as the following symptoms occur:
- Follicles become smaller.
- Hair grows more slowly and for a shorter period.
- Hair falls out faster and more profusely.
- Hair becomes fine.
- Hair appears less shiny and vital.
Book your Trichotest® genetic test now at Starks clinics, and start reversing your hair loss.
Thanks for viewing this post. Starks currently provides age management solutions in clinics located in France, Greece, and Italy. Please click below to read this article in one of these languages.
- French: Pourquoi perdez-vous vos cheveux ? Utilisez le test ADN pour le savoir
- Italian: Perché cadono i capelli: test del DNA per scoprirlo
