Male Pattern Baldness: Causes, Symptoms, Stages, and Treatment

Androgenetic alopecia, commonly called male pattern baldness, is a widespread hair loss condition that impacts millions of men across the globe. It is characterised by a gradual thinning of scalp hair, typically starting at the temples and crown, which can eventually lead to significant balding over time. While it is not a life-threatening condition, hair loss in men can have a significant impact on a man’s self-esteem and confidence. In this article, we will explore the causes, symptoms, stages, and treatment options for male pattern baldness.

What Is Male Pattern Baldness?

The most prevalent form of hair loss in men, male pattern baldness, affects up to 50% of men by the age of 50. This progressive condition typically begins with a receding hairline at the temples and gradually progresses to thinning on the crown. Over time, hair loss can become more extensive, leading to a horseshoe-shaped pattern of hair around the sides and back of the head. While the exact cause of hair loss in men is not fully understood, it might be related to a combination of genetic and hormonal factors.

Causes of Male Pattern Baldness

The causes of hair loss in men are complex and multifactorial, involving a combination of age, hormones, and genetics:

• Age: Hair loss tends to increase with age, affecting approximately 50% of men by the age of 50.
• Hormones: Androgens, particularly dihydrotestosterone (DHT), play a significant role in male pattern baldness. DHT causes hair follicles to shrink and produce finer, shorter hair.
• Genetics: Heredity is a major factor in hair loss in men, particularly if relatives on the maternal side have experienced similar hair loss patterns.

Understanding these underlying causes can help develop targeted treatment strategies for effectively managing hair loss in men.

Stages of Male Pattern Baldness

Male pattern baldness progresses through distinct stages, which can be classified using the Norwood scale. Here are the stages:

• Stage 1: No significant hair loss is observed.
• Stage 2: Slight recession of the hairline at the temples becomes noticeable.
• Stage 3: The hairline recedes further, forming an M, U, or V shape. Stage 3 Vertex involves hair loss at the crown.
• Stage 4: More severe hair loss occurs, with a band of hair remaining between the receding hairline and the balding crown.
• Stage 5: Larger bald areas develop, with a narrower band of hair separating them.
• Stage 6: The bald areas at the front and crown merge, leaving only a horseshoe-shaped band of hair.
• Stage 7: Only a thin horseshoe-shaped band of hair remains around the sides and back of the head.
• Norwood Class A: A less common hair loss pattern where the hairline recedes uniformly without a middle island or vertex bald spot.

Understanding these stages can help you identify the progression of male pattern baldness and seek appropriate treatment. The symptoms associated with each stage may vary from person to person.

Symptoms of Male Pattern Baldness

The symptoms of male pattern baldness can be easily recognised and typically include a receding hairline and thinning hair. Here are the key symptoms to look out for:

• Receding Hairline: Thinning at the temples, forming an “M” shape.
• Vertex Thinning: Hair loss at the crown of the head.
• Gradual Progression: Symptoms worsen over time.

If you notice any of these symptoms, it is essential to consult with a dermatologist or your family doctor for a proper diagnosis and to discuss potential treatment options.

Diagnosis of Male Pattern Baldness

The diagnosis of hair loss in men is typically clinical, based on visually examining the scalp. A dermatologist or healthcare provider may use the Norwood Scale to classify hair loss extent. A comprehensive medical history and family history can also aid in the diagnosis process, as male pattern baldness often has a genetic component. Your doctor may also perform additional tests to rule out other potential causes of hair loss, such as nutrient deficiencies or hormonal imbalances.

Risk Factors of Male Pattern Baldness

Many factors can increase the likelihood of developing male pattern baldness. Genetics play a significant role, with a higher risk if close relatives, such as a father or brother, are affected. Ethnicity is another factor, with white men being more prone to baldness compared to those of Chinese or Japanese descent. Additionally, male sex hormones, particularly dihydrotestosterone (DHT), contribute significantly to this condition. While these risk factors cannot be changed, understanding them can help in managing and treating male pattern baldness effectively.

Best Treatments for Male Pattern Baldness

Various treatment options are available for managing hair loss in men, ranging from medications to surgical interventions.

1. Medications

Medications offer a non-invasive approach to slowing down hair loss and promoting regrowth.

• Minoxidil is a topical treatment applied to the scalp to encourage hair growth and slow hair loss.
• Finasteride is an oral medication that helps regrow hair by blocking DHT, the hormone responsible for hair loss.

2. Hair Transplant

Hair transplantation is a surgical option that offers a permanent solution for restoring hair in areas affected by balding.

• The procedure involves moving healthy hair follicles from donor sites, usually the back of the scalp, to the balding areas.
• While hair transplants offer permanent results with a natural appearance, they are invasive and can be costly compared to other treatments.

3. Platelet-rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy

PRP therapy is a natural hair restoration treatment that utilizes platelet-rich plasma from the patient’s own blood to encourage hair growth.

• The process involves injecting PRP into the scalp to support the regeneration of hair follicles.
• Research has shown encouraging results, with minimal side effects, making it a popular choice for those looking for a natural solution to hair loss.

4. Styling Techniques

In addition to medical treatments, styling techniques can help visually manage the appearance of hair loss.

• Using thinning scissors to trim the hair can create a more even and fuller look.
• Applying hair-thickening products, such as volumising sprays or powders, can add volume and texture to the hair.
• Choosing hairstyles that strategically cover bald spots, such as comb-overs or shorter cuts, can help minimise the appearance of hair loss.

Also Read: 5 Natural Solutions to Regrow Hair

How to Manage and Prevent Male Pattern Baldness

While hair loss in men cannot be completely prevented, there are several strategies that can help manage the condition and delay hair loss. Here are some key steps you can take:

• Maintain a healthy lifestyle by eating a balanced diet rich in nutrients like protein, iron, and vitamins A and C, which are essential for hair health.
• Manage stress through relaxation techniques like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises, as stress can exacerbate hair loss.
• Avoid using hair products without consulting your doctor as the chemicals can cause hair loss. Consult your doctor before using any specific hair product in case of hair loss.
• Regular check-ups with a doctor can help in early intervention which can be more effective in managing hair loss.

Adopting a proactive approach to managing male pattern baldness can help you maintain your hair health and appearance for longer. If you’re unsure about the best course of action, it’s always a good idea to seek professional medical advice.

When to Contact a Doctor

In most cases, hair loss in men is a gradual process that doesn’t require immediate medical attention. However, there are certain situations where it’s advisable to consult a doctor:

• If your hair loss is sudden or patchy, as this could indicate an underlying medical condition like alopecia areata.
• If your hair loss is accompanied by other symptoms like scalp redness, itching, or pain, suggesting a scalp infection or skin disorder.

Your doctor can help determine the cause of your hair loss and recommend the most appropriate treatment options for your specific case. With the right approach, male pattern baldness can be effectively managed, allowing you to maintain a healthy and confident appearance.

Conclusion

Male pattern baldness is a common condition that affects many men as they age. While genetic factors and hormonal changes are the primary causes, lifestyle factors can also play a role. Although the condition cannot be completely prevented, various treatment options are available to slow down hair loss and promote hair growth, including medications, hair transplantation, and lifestyle modifications. By understanding the causes, symptoms, and stages of hair loss and seeking professional medical advice when necessary, men can effectively manage this condition and maintain a healthy, confident appearance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

References

• https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK278957/
• https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32066284/
• https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1359644608002043
• https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/exd.14839
• https://www.cuimc.columbia.edu/news/studies-uncover-new-approaches-combat-hair-loss-men-and-women