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Start tackling male pattern baldness today with an online appointment. Speak to an expert who will assess your needs and create a treatment plan to restore your hair and boost your confidence—all from the comfort of your home.

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Personalised Treatment Plans

Male pattern baldness treatment online at Mobi Doctor offers tailored solutions to slow hair loss and encourage regrowth. From proven medications to lifestyle advice, your doctor will guide you through effective options for your needs and goals.

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Support That Works

Get continuous support for male pattern baldness through online consultations. From personalised plans to progress check-ins, expert advice is always available to help you stay on track and achieve healthier, fuller hair.

Medically Reviewed

By

Chrysoula I. Liakou

MD, PhD, Internal Medicine Specialist and
Cancer Immunology Researcher.

What Is Male Pattern Baldness?

Male pattern baldness, also known as androgenic alopecia, is a common type of hair loss that affects people assigned male at birth (AMAB). It typically causes thinning hair, a receding hairline, and baldness on the top of the head. This condition happens gradually and becomes more noticeable over time.

 

Male pattern baldness is measured using the Hamilton-Norwood scale, which has seven stages. It begins with minimal hair loss (Stage 1) and progresses to a receding hairline (Stage 2 and 3). By Stage 4, hair loss appears at the crown, and the bald spots on the crown and hairline merge in later stages. Stage 7 is the most advanced stage, with almost no hair left on the top of the head and only a thin band remaining around the sides.

 

This type of hair loss is primarily due to genetics and changes in hormone levels, particularly as men age. By 50, about half of all men experience male pattern baldness. While it is a natural part of aging for many, it can be emotionally distressing.

 

Although male pattern baldness cannot always be prevented, treatments such as medications, hair transplants, and lifestyle changes can help reduce or slow hair loss. If you notice sudden or severe hair loss, consult a doctor, which could indicate an underlying health issue.

Male Pattern Baldness Symptoms

Male pattern baldness, also called androgenic alopecia, is hair loss that happens gradually. Knowing the symptoms can help you notice the signs early and get help if needed.

What To Look For:

  • Thinning Hair On Top: Hair at the crown (top of your head) starts to thin, often in a small circular patch.

  • Receding Hairline: The hairline moves back, usually making an “M” shape.

  • Hair Loss At The Temples: Hair on the sides near your temples becomes thinner or disappears.

  • “U”-Shaped Hair Loss: As hair loss continues, bald areas on the crown and temples may connect, leaving a band of hair around the sides and back of your head.

  • Slow Progression: Hair loss often starts in your 30s, but it can happen as early as your late teens or 20s.

If hair loss is sudden, happens in patches, or comes with other issues like redness or itching, it might be something other than male pattern baldness. In those cases, you should talk to a doctor. Paying attention to these symptoms early can help you explore treatments to manage or slow down the process.

Male Pattern Baldness Causes

Male pattern baldness, known as androgenic alopecia, is mainly caused by genetics and hormonal changes. It is a gradual process that affects the growth cycle of hair, leading to thinner strands and, eventually, hair loss.

Genetics

Your family history plays a significant role in male pattern baldness. If your relatives have experienced hair loss, you are more likely to inherit the condition. This is linked to the androgen receptor (AR) gene, found on the X chromosome, which influences your hair follicles' sensitivity to male sex hormones called androgens.

Hormones

Androgens, such as dihydrotestosterone (DHT), shorten the hair growth cycle. Over time, the hair follicles shrink, producing shorter, finer hair. Eventually, the follicles stop growing new hair altogether, leading to baldness.

Age

Age is another critical factor. Hair loss becomes more common as you get older. By 50, about half of all men experience some male pattern baldness.

Associated Conditions

In some cases, male pattern baldness can be linked to medical issues like high blood pressure, obesity, diabetes, or prostate problems. These conditions may involve elevated levels of androgens, which could explain the connection to hair loss.

If you notice sudden or unusual hair loss, consult a doctor to rule out other health issues. Understanding the causes of male pattern baldness can help you explore treatments to manage the condition effectively.

Male Pattern Baldness Treatment

Male pattern baldness is common, but there are treatments to slow down hair loss or help your hair grow back. Here are the most popular options:

Medications

  • Minoxidil: This liquid or foam you apply to your scalp. It helps slow hair loss and even grows new hair for some people. You need to use it regularly, or the effects may go away. Some people get dry or itchy skin as a side effect.

  • Finasteride: This is a pill that reduces the hormones causing hair loss. It works well for many men, but it can have side effects like reduced energy or discomfort in the testicles.

Hair Transplants

This surgery moves healthy hair from thick areas to bald spots. The results are permanent and natural-looking, but it’s expensive and may take several sessions.

PRP Therapy

Platelet-rich plasma therapy involves taking a small amount of your blood, processing it, and injecting it into your scalp to encourage hair growth.

Wigs And Hairstyles

If you prefer a more straightforward solution, try wigs, hairpieces, or creative hairstyles to cover thinning hair.

Emotional Support

Losing hair can be upsetting. If it affects your confidence, talking to a counsellor can help. Speak to a doctor to find the best treatment for you.

Male Pattern Baldness Prevention

While male pattern baldness cannot be prevented entirely, you can take steps to keep your hair healthy and slow down hair loss.

Eat A Healthy Diet

Eating enough protein is essential for strong hair. Aim for 40 to 60 grams of protein each day, especially if you’re vegetarian or vegan. A Mediterranean diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins may also support hair health.

Take Vitamins And Minerals

Certain vitamins and minerals can help maintain healthy hair. Vitamins A, B, C, D, and E and zinc and iron are especially important. Talk to your doctor before starting supplements to ensure they’re right for you.

Manage Stress

Stress can worsen hair loss by increasing androgen activity, which affects hair growth. Find ways to relax, like practising mindfulness, exercising, or spending time doing activities you enjoy.

While there’s no guaranteed way to prevent male pattern baldness, these healthy habits can improve overall hair health and slow down the process. If you’re concerned about hair loss, consult a doctor for advice and treatment options. Mobi Doctor offers expert advice and personalised treatment plans to help manage male pattern baldness. Get professional care from the comfort of your home.

FAQ

Male pattern baldness is caused by genetics and hormones, mainly dihydrotestosterone (DHT). It shortens the hair growth cycle, causing hair to thin and eventually stop growing. The condition is hereditary and affects about half of men by age 50.


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