For millions of men, going bald is a part of life, and it causes many males to be self-conscious and ashamed of how they look. Some men go to great lengths to disguise baldness: combing hair over the bald spot, wearing baseball caps, or shaving their heads. There is no way to to prevent baldness, although there are some treatments that might slow it or disguise it. Normal hair lives for around five years. With male pattern baldness, the hair that is lost is never replaced. It is called male pattern baldness because it follows a specific pattern: usually beginning at the temples, then continuing over the surface of the head. Genetics play a huge role in baldness, contrary to popular myths that certain actions cause hair loss. For example, the idea that trauma or stress will cause hair to fall out, or that using certain hair gels will accelerate hair thinnning are simply not true. Male pattern baldness can be treated in different ways. Prescription hair loss medications or lotions that are rubbed on the scalp work best when hair loss is just beginning, rather than when the man is completely bald. Hormonal pills work similarly to female birth control pills and block the production of DHT (dihydrotestosterone). Medications for male pattern baldness are not miracle cures, and take months to begin working. Side effects of hair loss medications like a decreased sex drive may occur with certain treatments. Hair transplants take some of the hair from the sides of the man's head and transplant it onto the bald area. Small amounts of hair-growing scalp from the back are grafted to the bald areas. Several sessions might be needed before the optimal result is reached. Like any medical procedure, there are certain risks involved in hair transplant surgery including infection or scarring. Hair loss treatments and surgery are expensive and considered cosmetic, so they won't be covered by health insurance. Also, be aware of scams, as there are many bogus companies selling hair loss products and promises that just don't work. Never use any hair loss product not recommended or prescribed by your physician. Finally, lots of people find baldness sexy, so consider that before you cover up or seek out baldness remedies!