Common Causes of Hair Loss in Men

• Androgenic Alopecia (Male Pattern Baldness): is the most common cause of male hair loss, affecting 30 – 50% of men by the age of 50. Genetics and the hormone dihydrotestosterone (DHT) influence its growth. DHT causes hair follicles to shrink in size, resulting in finer, shorter hair that finally stops growing completely.
• Stress: Chronic stress can disrupt the hair growth cycle, resulting in temporary hair loss.
• Medical Conditions: Thyroid problems, low iron levels, and autoimmune conditions can all cause hair loss.
• Medications: Certain medications, such as chemotherapy and blood thinners, can cause hair loss as a side effect. 
• Diet and Nutrition: Inadequate vitamins and minerals in the diet can lead to hair loss.

Stages of Hair Loss in Men According to the Hamilton-Norwood Scale

Invented by Dr. James Hamilton during the 1950s, the Hamilton-Norwood Scale utilises a visual reference to classify the advancement of hair loss. This scale assists doctors in diagnosing male pattern baldness and selecting the best treatment options to stop hair loss. While this scale is primarily designed for individuals with Caucasian hair, it can also be applied to other hair types, including African American and Asian hair. However, it’s important to note that the specific patterns of hair loss may vary slightly between different ethnicities.

Stage 1: No noticeable hair loss

This stage is also known as the control stage. Men who inherited male pattern baldness have yet to experience baldness, except for unnoticeable hair loss around the temples. At this point, it is usually impossible to tell whether a person has the condition. However, if there is a familial history of male pattern baldness, men with full hair may be in stage 1. While there is no need for immediate action, now is the time to adopt a healthy lifestyle that includes a balanced diet rich in necessary nutrients for hair development.

Stage 2: Slight thinning around the temples (M – shaped Hairline)

This is the early stage of male pattern baldness, and you may see your hairline receding, especially around the temples. It frequently takes on a M form. Men who are genetically susceptible to male pattern baldness are more likely to reach this stage.If your hairline is retreating into an M-shape, it may indicate hair loss. Consulting a dermatologist can also result in a professional diagnosis.

Medication is one type of intervention and treatment for stage 2 hair loss. It can decrease or even stop hair loss. Lifestyle changes, such as a healthy diet, regular exercise, and stress management, can also support overall hair health.

Stage 3: Severe thinning around the temples 

This is a more advanced stage of male pattern baldness where hair loss becomes noticeably more pronounced. The hairline may recede further, forming a U-shape, and bald spots may start to appear, especially at the crown.

Medication can help decrease or stop hair loss in stage 3. PRP Hair Treatment may also be considered at this time. It stimulates hair growth by utilising the body’s regenerative capabilities. For more severe hair loss, hair transplants might be used to restore hair in affected areas. 

Stage 4: Severe hairline recession and a bald spot at the crown (U- shaped Hairline)

Stage 4 is an advanced stage of hair loss, with a more prominent U-shaped hairline and obvious thinning or total baldness at the crown. It becomes more noticeable that the hairline is receding and that the front of the scalp is losing hair.

Medications can still slow down hair loss and even encourage regrowth. Hair transplants and other hair loss treatments may restore hair density in the damaged areas.

Consult a healthcare professional to discuss the most suitable treatment options for your situation. Acting early can improve your chances of successful hair restoration and minimise the cost of treatment.

Stage 5: Near-total hair loss on the top of the scalp

At Stage 5 of male pattern baldness, the hairline has receded significantly, leaving a thin band of hair separating the crown from the hairline. The top of the head is almost completely bald, with a classic horseshoe-shaped pattern of hair running along the lower half of the head.

Treatment options become limited at this stage, but medications may still be used together with hair transplants to enhance their effectiveness. However, the suitability of hair transplants depends on the availability of donor hair, which may be limited at stage 5.

Consult a healthcare professional to assess your situation and discuss potential treatment options. 

Stage 6: Hair loss extends to the sides of the head

Stage 6 of male pattern baldness is where the hairline has receded so far that the crown is completely bald. This leaves a distinctive horseshoe-shaped pattern of hair around the sides and back of the head.

Some men may retain a few sparse hairs on the crown, but it’s mostly bare. This can be a challenging stage emotionally, but there are still options available. Hair transplants can still help if you’re at stage 6. Check out FUE with Neograft to learn more.

Stage 7: Complete baldness on the top of the head

Stage 7, the final stage of male pattern baldness, is characterised by a significantly thinned horseshoe-shaped band of hair around the sides and back of the head. The hair in this area becomes brittle and fragile, and the overall appearance is significantly diminished.

While treatment options are limited at this stage, hair transplants combined with medication can still be considered to improve hair density and appearance. Explore available options to help you regain confidence and improve your appearance.

Consult a qualified healthcare professional to assess your situation, evaluate your suitability for a hair transplant, and discuss the potential benefits and risks.

Take Control of Hair Loss

The earlier you take action against hair loss, the greater your chances of achieving successful results. Don’t let hair loss dictate your confidence or self-image.  

At The Medical Hair Institute, our dedicated team of specialists is here to guide you through every step of your hair restoration journey. Contact us today to schedule your expert consultation and discover how we can help you achieve the full, healthy head of hair you desire.