Barber Practice State Board Practice Exam

What factor does not contribute to androgenic alopecia?

1. Genetic predisposition

2. Hormonal imbalance

3. Autoimmune disorder

4. Age

The correct answer is: Autoimmune disorder

Androgenic alopecia, commonly known as male or female pattern baldness, is primarily associated with genetic predisposition, hormonal changes related to androgens, and age. Each of these factors plays a significant role in the development and progression of hair loss. Genetic predisposition means that the tendency to experience hair loss can be inherited from one or both parents. Hormonal imbalance, particularly involving androgens, can also lead to hair follicle miniaturization, which is a hallmark of androgenic alopecia. Additionally, as individuals age, the chances of experiencing hair loss increase, making age a contributing factor as well. In contrast, autoimmune disorders typically involve the immune system mistakenly attacking the body's own cells, which can lead to different types of hair loss, such as alopecia areata. Androgenic alopecia does not arise from such an immune response. Thus, the absence of an autoimmune disorder as a contributing factor distinguishes it from the other options, which directly affect hair follicles through genetic, hormonal, or age-related changes.