Male pattern baldness
Male pattern baldness, a common form of hair loss, affects millions of men worldwide. Understanding the causes, progression, and available treatments is crucial for those seeking to manage and mitigate its effects.
What is male pattern baldness?
Male pattern balding, also known as androgenetic alopecia, is a common hair loss condition in men characterised by a gradual thinning of hair on the scalp. It typically begins with receding hairlines and thinning at the crown, eventually leading to baldness on the top of the head while leaving hair on the sides and back relatively unaffected.
What causes male pattern baldness?
Both genetic factors and androgens contribute towards male pattern baldness, specifically dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT is a derivative of testosterone that binds to hair follicle receptors, leading to the gradual shrinking of hair follicles, reducing hair growth and eventually leading to hair loss.
Alongside this, heredity, age and hormones all contribute towards male pattern baldness. This occurs as hair follicles shrink over time and the hair fibre miniaturises producing a finer hair that provides less dense coverage.
General symptoms
Receding hairline
Gradual thinning of hair at the temples, leading to a receding hairline.
Thinning crown
Hair thinning and potential bald patches at the top of the head.
Progressive hair loss
Widespread thinning and hair loss over time, with hair remaining thicker on the sides and back of the scalp.
M-shaped hairline
Formation of an M-shaped pattern as the hairline recedes further, often accompanied by thinning in the crown area.
Treating male pattern baldness
There are several different approaches to treating male pattern hair loss that we can discuss with you. Each method will depend on the severity or stage of your hair loss, as methods will yield varying results depending on the person.
Medications
Minoxidil and finasteride are two medications that help stimulate hair growth. These can be both topical and oral medications based on preference.
Hair transplant
By transferring hair follicles into balding spots, transplants help promote hair growth in areas of concern. We can refer you to a hair transplant specialist if required.
Lower-level laser therapy
A non-invasive treatment that uses red light to stimulate hair follicles and promote hair growth. We can advise on home use machines if required.
Platelet rich plasma therapy
By injecting concentrated platelets from your blood into the scalp, this stimulates hair follicles and promotes hair growth.
How to prevent male pattern baldness
Male pattern balding is largely hereditary, meaning it cannot be outright prevented. However, there are several things you can do to maximise your health, thus promoting good hair growth.
- •Medications such as minoxidil can be bought over the counter and used to assist hair growth
- •Managing stress levels is key as high stress can contribute to hair loss
- •Avoiding smoking and excess alcohol
- •Maintaining a healthy scalp microbiome may help to promote good hair growth; ensure to use gentle hair products to avoid damage
- •A healthy, balanced diet supports overall body health
Important information
When should I see a dermatologist for male pattern baldness?
Contacting us early in the pattern balding stages gives you the best chance at reducing or reversing hair loss. If you see any of the mentioned symptoms — receding hairline, thinning crown, or have a strong family history of baldness — we recommend contacting us so we can start recommending a treatment plan straight away.
What's the first step to treating male pattern baldness?
The first step is to book a consultation with one of our experts. From there, we will assess your hair and scalp, reviewing the pattern and severity of your hair loss, as well as any underlying scalp conditions. We will also consider your medical history, current medications, and any prior treatments you've undergone. Our team will then recommend the most effective treatment tailored to your needs, along with an aftercare plan aimed at promoting hair regrowth and improving overall scalp health.
Male pattern baldness FAQs
Male pattern baldness, though challenging, can often be managed effectively with the right strategies and treatments. By implementing the appropriate measures, you can achieve significant improvements in hair growth and overall hair health.
Accreditations & memberships
Our consultants are members of leading UK and international dermatology and hair specialist bodies.
- Royal College of Physicians
- European Hair Research Society (EHRS)
- British Association of Dermatologists
- British Hair & Nail Society
- American Academy of Dermatology Association (AAD)
- European Academy of Dermatology & Venereology (EADV)