A recent study was conducted, called The Relative Contribution of Endogenous and Exogenous Factors to Male Alopecia: A Study of 66 Genetically Identical Males.  Bahman Guyuron MD is one of the co authors of this research.

Essentially, sixty six identical male twins were observed. Their genetics are identical, therefore, any differences in the amount of hair they had would be due to environmental factors.  It should be noted that these findings should be considered as preliminary at this point. They would need to undergo peer review prior to being formally published.

Consider Preventative Measures Before Hair Restoration For the Top, Crown and Back of the Head

DNA basically accounted for hair loss in the front.  Therefore, measures like hair transplant surgery are the most reliable way to address this issue.

In the subjects who were observed, the hairline and temple areas were pretty much the same for both twins. However, differences were seen in other regions.

The lifestyle habits of the twins were also compared. These  included:

• heavy drinking
• smoking
• being sedentary for much of the day
• sun exposure (as evident through regular outdoor exercise)

It seemed that the twins who engaged in these habits exhibited more hair loss compared to their siblings.

Researchers also looked at the body mass index. Weight gain is often associated with low testosterone. Therefore, reduced levels of DHT would be present in the bloodstream.

This study points out that genetic expression can certainly be influenced by external factors. The health of the hair follicles certainly depends on the health of the overall individual.

And although spending time exercising outdoors is considered to be a healthy practice, it also increases a person’s exposure to UV rays. UV radiation will cause oxygen molecules on the skin to lose electrons. This creates free radicals which can damage the hair follicles.

Being mindful of these factors can enable you to slow down the rate of hair loss. However, a hair restoration may be considered if considerable baldness has resulted from the effect of genes, and the progression has reached a stable point.

Dr. Umar has also discussed the subject of genes, environmental factors and hair loss in his interview with American Health Journal.  Click here to watch this video segment.