If your Dad is bald, there's a pretty good chance you will be too. Many accept this as just a fact of life, but some don't. For decades now, men have tried to find a cure for hair loss, or baldness. In some cases it is pure vanity but for some, premature hair loss makes them look years older than they are and they try to hang onto their thatch for as long as possible. They aren't alone in this search, hereditary baldness also affects women. This was a very touchy subject at one time, and women resorted to wigs and hair pieces to hide their thinning locks, but nowadays is much more accepted and recognized.

Looking at other member of your family can often determine the age and the pattern with which you will suffer hair loss. This genetic pattern in passed down and the chances of you bucking the trend are remote. The male pattern usually starts with a receding hairline, followed by a small bald patch on the crown. In complete baldness these will eventually join up and the head will be totally devoid of hair. Some only suffer the receding and general thinning, still keeping a reasonable amount of hair. If there is only a small amount of hair remaining, many men choose to shave their heads as this looks better than a few tufts and a bald patch. Women's hair tends to thin all over, and the scalp may become visible. There are many products on the market that claim to stop hair loss in it's tracks, and make amazing claims. The sad fact is many of these are complete scams and a big waste of time and money. There are now prescription medications available, but many will see little or no results.

Non hereditary hair loss is a whole different ball game. If you start losing your hair there is a reason for it. Far and away the most common reason for this time of hair loss is Alopecia. There are many theories for why you should suddenly have small, ball patches that are tender to the touch. It can be hereditary, it could be caused by stress or lifestyle, but there is still no scientific proof as to the actual cause. It is widely thought to be a malfunction in the autoimmune system, so the body attacks its own hair follicles resulting in hair growth being stunted or stopped altogether. Thankfully there are now a wide range of creams and applications which can stop the Alopecia progressing. Your doctor will advise you on the one(s) that are best for you, and often a combination of medications will be prescribed.

Lifestyle can play a major part in the health of our hair. Many few people now walk around with a natural shine to their hair, this could be due to smoking, alcohol consumption, poor diet or something as seemingly innocent as hair products. Perming, dying, hair spray, gels, mousses, styling aids and extensions can all severely damage our hair in the long run. It is no coincidence that in every drug store there is an array of supplements purely for hair and nails. These are the two areas that first show signs of an unhealthy lifestyle.

Make the most of your crowning glory, no one really knows how long they will have it for, so it makes a lot of sense to take care of our hair while it is at its best.