Great information you are a great writer of facts, interesting factual stuff, thank you
Jack,
Hairloss is predominantly hereditary. Take a look at your parents or grandparents and you'll probably see your future depending on who you take after. It's not a condition like acne.
Here's what you can do. I started losing my hair when I was about your age and thought I would be Captain Chrome Dome by 23, all alone, nobody would love me, and not able to get a good job because of being bald. I'm being a bit over-the-top about it but sometimes that's the way I felt. I had tons of hair as a kid and took great pride in my doo through many years. Then, it started.
I'm 42 now and have a bunch of hair still. It hasn't been easy or free but I have most of my hair. Here's what I would recommend if you want to keep it.
1. See a dermatologist. He'll give you the lowdown on what's available on the market.
2. He'll probably recommend either Propecia or Rogaine. Propecia is a pill and is expensive. You also have to take it everyday forever (or until they come out with something better and cheaper). Rogaine is a topical and you apply it morning and evening, forever.
3. Take a multivitamin and a strong helping of vitamin B.
4. Work out. Sweating is good for the noggin.
5. Don't wear your hats too often. I found that knit hats caused me problems.
6. Get a good shampoo and condition. As the chick that cuts your hair to recommend a good shampoo and conditioner. Be careful of snake oil with some of the stuff some people will recommend. I've been down that path and can tell you that there's no magic solution.
6. Cut it shorter. Nothing sadder than the hippy who's best hair days are behind him. Go short and keep it looking trim.
I've been taking Propecia and using Rogaine for about 10 years. Believe me, that combo works. I've also taken my 6 points of advice that I just listed. The investment means that you have to tighten the financial belt a bit. But, it's worth it. Consider it the cost of doing business in this world.
I've got a good buddy who had tons of hair and used to kid me about my hair loss. Then, he started losing his. Wasn't so funny anymore and now I have waaaay more hair than he does. But, the ironic thing is he really could care less. His hair just isn't that important to him. My brother is the same way, he could care less.
But, I did care. Just shows different strokes for different folks.
Good luck.