On achieving puberty, the male hormone androgen starts flowing freely in the body and is responsible for the growth of hair all over the body in the post-pubescence stage. Ironically, the same hormone causes the destruction of hair follicles in those who are genetically predisposed to baldness in the fronto-vertex (top of the skull) region.

The hair follicles shrink with each new growth cycle. The hair shaft narrows, and the hair gets finer. Such an unfortunate becomes very much worried and tries to arrest fall by oiling hair or worse still hope the receding hairline is camouflaged under a cap.

But trichologists say nothing to be worried, help is at hand. According to trichologists the treatment of male pattern baldness can be achieved in two forms. First by destroying the male hormone, which cause baldness by administering anti male hormone treatment. But they (trichologists) usually don't recommend this treatment since the anti-male-hormone treatment causes a lot of side effects, especially sexual dysfunction. The second option is to change the genes, which is not scientifically possible and for which research is still underway.

The best alternative without side effects is to administer natural DHT (Di-hydro testosterone) blockers. Trichologists propagate the use of natural berry seed called Saw Palmetto (a small palm tree with deeply cut leaves) with a plant called horsetail, which come in a combination called Serenoa Complex. The use of Serenoa Complex has proved to have incredible results in blocking the attack of DHT on hair genes. Now with this ray of hope it would be advisable to identify the problem early on.

"Now, don't allow hair fall to fell your spirits. Help is at hand, go ahead and grab it," trichologists heartened you with hope and promise.

The writer is an Associate Professor of department of Community Medicine of Comilla Medical College.