Male Pattern Baldness: Causes, Stages & Treatment
Understanding male pattern baldness (androgenetic alopecia)—why it happens, how it progresses, and all the proven treatments to slow or reverse it.
What is Male Pattern Baldness?
Male pattern baldness (androgenetic alopecia) is the most common form of hair loss in men, affecting about 50% of men by age 50. It's characterized by a receding hairline and thinning at the crown, eventually progressing to partial or complete baldness on top of the head while hair remains on the sides.
What Causes It?
Male pattern baldness is caused by a combination of genetics and hormones—specifically DHT (dihydrotestosterone). DHT binds to receptors in hair follicles, causing them to shrink over time (miniaturization). Eventually, follicles become too small to produce visible hair. The sensitivity to DHT is inherited, which is why it runs in families.
Key Points
- →It's inherited from both parents, not just your mother's side
- →DHT sensitivity varies by follicle location
- →Hair on the sides is resistant to DHT
The Norwood Scale: Stages of Hair Loss
The Norwood Scale classifies male pattern baldness into 7 stages. Stage 1 is no significant hair loss. Stage 2-3 shows recession at the temples. Stage 4-5 involves significant crown thinning. Stage 6-7 is extensive baldness with only a band of hair remaining on the sides and back. Treatment is most effective in earlier stages.
Proven Treatments
FDA-approved treatments include minoxidil (topical) and finasteride (oral). Minoxidil stimulates growth while finasteride blocks DHT. Used together, they're most effective. Other options include low-level laser therapy, PRP injections, and hair transplant surgery for more advanced cases.
Key Points
- →Start treatment early for best results
- →Combination therapy works better than single treatments
- →Hair transplants move DHT-resistant hairs to balding areas
- →No treatment can revive completely dead follicles
Lifestyle Factors
While genetics are the main factor, lifestyle can influence hair health. Stress, poor diet, smoking, and lack of sleep can accelerate hair loss. A diet rich in protein, iron, zinc, and biotin supports healthy hair. Regular exercise improves circulation to the scalp.
When to See a Doctor
See a dermatologist if you notice sudden or patchy hair loss (could indicate other conditions), hair loss with scalp symptoms like itching or pain, or if you want to discuss treatment options. A dermatologist can diagnose the type of hair loss and recommend appropriate treatments.
Related Treatments
Hair Transplant
Hair transplant is a surgical procedure that moves hair follicles from a donor area (usually the back of the head) to balding or thinning areas. Modern techniques like FUE create natural-looking, permanent results.
PRP for Hair Loss
PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) therapy for hair loss involves injecting concentrated platelets from your own blood into the scalp to stimulate hair follicles and promote growth.
Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP)
Scalp micropigmentation is a non-surgical cosmetic tattoo technique that creates the appearance of tiny hair follicles on the scalp. It can create a buzz-cut look or add density to thinning hair.