Source:pixta.jp

AGA (androgenetic alopecia) is a type of hair loss that tends to occur after the age of 30, and once it develops, it progresses.
In this article, we will introduce the outline and mechanism of AGA in detail. In the second half, we will explain frequently asked questions and answers, so please refer to them.

Article supervisor introduction

Aiko Isami
Representative Director of Next Beauty Labo General Incorporated Association
Dr. TOUHI AGA Clinic Director

[Career]
Graduated from the University of Tokyo Completed initial training at Nagaoka Red Cross Hospital
While specializing in neurology, he became aware of the importance of scalp and hair care after being involved in AGA treatment.
In 2023, we will open Dr. TOUHI AGA Clinic and Dr. TOUHI Hair Medical Salon, clinics that will help you with all your scalp and hair concerns.

Symptoms of AGA can be improved with proper treatment based on medical evidence.
It is also important to understand how AGA works so that you do not get confused by the wrong treatment.

*Click here for official website

What is AGA (androgenetic alopecia)?

Source:pixta.jp

AGA is an abbreviation for "Androgenetic Alopecia," which is a progressive alopecia caused by male hormones.
Hair loss is common among Japanese men of the middle generation and above, so if you notice that your hair is falling out more or less, or that you're concerned about your hairline, you may be suffering from AGA.

First, I will explain the overview of AGA.

・Progressive hair loss caused by male hormones
・It may develop from a young age in your 20s to 30s.
・About female pattern hair loss “FAGA”

Androgen-type progressive hair loss

Source:pixta.jp

AGA is not a temporary alopecia, but a progressive condition, so it is almost impossible to recover naturally after onset.
Without proper treatment, hair loss symptoms will gradually progress (*).

However, thinning hair, especially on the top of the head, can be difficult to notice on your own.
Some people only become concerned about it after someone else points it out to them, and others may have it progressing without them even realizing it.

*“Male pattern and female pattern hair loss treatment guidelines 2017 edition” reference

It tends to occur after the age of 20 to 30

Source:pixta.jp

According to the clinical practice guidelines established by the Japanese Dermatological Association, AGA is said to occur in approximately 30% of all Japanese men (*1), so it is not that rare.

Another characteristic is that the incidence increases with age, reaching approximately 20% in their 10s, 30% in their 20s, and 40% in their 30s.
The incidence rate is said to be approximately 50% for people over 40 (*2).

*1, 2:“Male pattern and female pattern hair loss treatment guidelines 2017 edition” reference

About female pattern baldness “FAGA”

Source:pixta.jp

Not only men but also women can develop a progressive hair loss called FAGA (Female Androgenetic Alopecia).
In contrast to men, where the hairline recedes into an M-shape or the top of the head loses volume, the thinning hair often starts in one area and spreads out, whereas in FAGA, thinning hair is often seen over a relatively wide area. (*1).

Regarding the time of onset, one of the characteristics is that, unlike AGA, which can begin as early as your teens, symptoms tend to appear after menopause in your 10s (*40).

*1, 2:“Male pattern and female pattern hair loss treatment guidelines 2017 edition” reference

How AGA (androgenetic alopecia) occurs

Source:pixta.jp

Hair grows back through three cycles: the anagen phase, the catagen phase, and the telogen phase, which is called the hair cycle.

AGA/FAGA is a mechanism in which the growth phase becomes shorter as the hair cycle repeats, and more scalp tissue remains in the resting phase, resulting in hair loss and thinning (*1).

In particular, abnormalities are often seen in the hair on the front of the head (hairline) and the top of the head.In the early stages, thin and short hair begins to grow in the affected areas, and gradually progresses to the point where they stop growing ( *2).

*1, 2:“Male pattern and female pattern hair loss treatment guidelines 2017 edition” reference

Can AGA (androgenetic alopecia) be cured?

Source:pixta.jp

If you have developed AGA or FAGA, you may be concerned about whether or not it can be improved.
AGA and FAGA are progressive alopecias, but as treatment research continues, it is now possible to receive treatment based on medical evidence.

*“Male pattern and female pattern hair loss treatment guidelines 2017 edition” reference

Treatment methods have been established

Source:pixta.jp

Several evidence-based treatment methods have been established for AGA and FAGA (*).
Before you give up and think that it is something that cannot be helped due to aging, let's try appropriate treatment first.

However, symptoms may recur if treatment is stopped, so it is important to continue treatment.

*“Male pattern and female pattern hair loss treatment guidelines 2017 edition” reference

Appearance can be improved with continued appropriate treatment

Source:pixta.jp

It is known that the progression of symptoms can be suppressed by receiving appropriate AGA/FAGA treatment.
It is entirely possible to restore your appearance with continued appropriate treatment.

However, some clinics and salons offer treatment methods that have no medical basis, so be careful when choosing a clinic.

If you have hair loss, please consult "Dr. TOUHI AGA Clinic"

"Dr. TOUHI AGA Clinic" is a clinic specializing in AGA treatment (*1) that handles multiple types of AGA treatment drugs recommended by the AGA treatment guidelines (*2).
Based on the concept of constantly learning about hair-related medical care and the latest evidence, we provide treatment plans tailored to each individual.

We also accept consultations in advance, so if you are unsure about whether or not to undergo treatment, please feel free to contact us.

*1:“Male pattern and female pattern hair loss treatment guidelines 2017 edition” reference
*2: Free medical treatment.

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Supporting the creation of a healthy hair foundation with AGA treatment and medical head spa

At Dr. TOUHI AGA Clinic, we not only provide AGA treatment based on medical evidence, but also scalp care using a medical head spa.

Thoroughly supports the creation of a healthy scalp to keep it clean and grow healthy hair! A beautician will perform a custom-made medical head spa based on each individual's scalp data and interview details.

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A wide variety of treatment plans to choose from

Another point of Dr. TOUHI AGA Clinic's treatment plans is that they have a rich lineup.
A major feature is that you can choose a treatment plan that suits you according to your budget and situation, such as the "Original Plan" that combines AGA treatment and medical head spa, and the "Full Support Plan" for those who want to do everything possible. is.

Another attractive feature is that experienced beauticians provide individual counseling to each individual and propose a treatment plan depending on the condition of the scalp.

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Frequently asked questions and answers about AGA (androgenetic alopecia)

Source:pixta.jp

Finally, we will introduce some frequently asked questions and answers about AGA.
Please refer to it if you have any questions or concerns about symptoms or treatment.

Q. My hair loss increased after taking minoxidil. Is this “initial hair loss”?
In the early stages of taking minoxidil, telogen effluvium may increase (*1), and this is called "initial effluvium."
However, according to the AGA clinical practice guidelines, this type of hair loss is temporary and treatment should be continued for at least 6 months (*2).

If you stop taking the drug, the symptoms will recur, so even if you notice initial hair loss, avoid stopping the drug on your own.

*“Male pattern and female pattern hair loss treatment guidelines 2017 edition” reference

Q. Is AGA hereditary?
AGA is said to be hereditary (*).
If you have a family member with thinning hair, you are more likely to develop AGA.

*“Male pattern and female pattern hair loss treatment guidelines 2017 edition” reference

Q. At what age can AGA treatment be performed?
AGA can occur even in young people.
Treatment is basically available to anyone over the age of 18, so if you suspect you have AGA, please visit a clinic that offers treatment.

Q. Can AGA be cured naturally?
AGA rarely heals naturally, and it is generally said that recovery through self-care is difficult.
In addition, most commercially available products, including hair restorers, are aimed at improving the scalp environment.
It is okay to use it as part of scalp care, but if you are aiming for full-scale improvement, we recommend visiting an appropriate clinic.

Early treatment is key for AGA (androgenetic alopecia)! Don't give up, visit the clinic

Source:pixta.jp

AGA (androgenetic alopecia) is a type of hair loss that gradually progresses once it develops, so it is important to receive appropriate treatment as early as possible.
There is a possibility that you can improve your appearance by continuing treatment with evidence, so before you give up on it being a phenomenon of aging, please visit a clinic.