Etymology of androgenic alopecia
The term "androgenic alopecia" comes from a combination of two words:
"androgenic" and "alopecia."
"Androgenic"
refers to androgens, which are male hormones that are also present in females but in smaller amounts. These hormones play a key role in the development and maintenance of male characteristics, including hair growth.
Alopecia"
is a medical term that refers to hair loss, particularly on the scalp. It comes from the Greek word "alopex," which means "fox," possibly because foxes shed their fur twice a year.
So, put together, "androgenic alopecia" refers to hair loss on the scalp that is caused by androgens, particularly in individuals with a genetic predisposition to the condition. It is also commonly referred to as male-pattern baldness or female-pattern baldness, depending on the gender of the affected individual.
