Male pattern hair loss is usually noticed by receding at the temple corners and thinning at the crown; the typical sign is finer and shorter hairs growing in place of the hair that falls out. If shedding starts suddenly and evenly across the whole scalp, another cause is looked for. A doctor’s examination is needed for a firm distinction.
What is male pattern hair loss?
Male pattern hair loss (androgenetic alopecia) is the most common type of hair loss in men, based on the hair follicles shrinking over time under the influence of heredity and hormones. Before the follicles disappear completely, the hair strands become thinner and shorter. This process advances slowly and does not go at the same speed in every man.
What are the signs?
- The hairline receding from the temples, the hairline taking an “M” shape
- Thinning of the hair at the crown
- Hair strands becoming thinner and shorter over time
- Hair that was thick before becoming weaker
- A family history of similar hair loss
Some hair loss each day in the shower or when combing is natural. The real sign is the shedding concentrating in particular areas and hair density decreasing over time.
Which stages does it go through?
Doctors usually describe the progress of hair loss in stages. At the start a slight recession is seen at the temples, then this recession becomes more marked, thinning at the crown is added, and in later stages these two areas can join. Only an examination and, if needed, a scalp examination shows which stage you are at and how quickly the loss is progressing. Knowing the stage helps determine which option can be discussed.
In which situations should you see a doctor?
It is appropriate to see a doctor in the following situations:
- If the hair loss has increased markedly in a short time
- If the hair is falling out evenly from the whole scalp
- If there is redness, itching, burning or a sore on the scalp
- If the hair loss started after a new medicine, an illness, a period of stress or weight loss
- If the thinning has become visible to the eye and you want to learn your options
Because these signs can also point to other causes, it is important that the cause is made clear before you start using products on your own.
What assessments are made at the examination?
The doctor examines your scalp and asks when and how the hair loss started, whether there is a similar condition in your family, the medicines you use and the illnesses you have had. Blood tests may be requested if needed. In this way it is assessed whether the hair loss is of the male pattern type or is due to another cause.
Treatment options the doctor assesses
In male pattern hair loss the options are decided according to the person and the stage. Among the services at Özel Demiderm Polikliniği are PRP Hair Treatment, Hair Mesotherapy, and FUE and DHI hair transplantation; which of them, or which combination, is suitable is decided after the examination. For detailed information you can look at the pages PRP treatment for hair loss, İzmir hair mesotherapy and how is hair transplantation done. Because the response varies from person to person, no promise can be made about the result with any option.
Daily habits for managing hair loss
Eating a balanced diet, sleeping regularly, not wearing out the scalp with harsh products and staying away from smoking can contribute to general health and the condition of the scalp. These habits do not stop hereditary hair loss, but they can help reduce additional factors. For an examination you can make an appointment or reach us through our contact page.
Frequently asked questions
How can you tell male pattern hair loss?
Receding at the temples, thinning at the crown and thinner hair strands are typical signs. A doctor’s examination is needed for a firm diagnosis.
Which stages does male pattern hair loss go through?
First a recession at the temples, then it becomes more marked, then thinning at the crown, and in later stages these areas can join. The speed of progress varies from person to person.
What are the signs of male pattern hair loss?
The main signs are a receding hairline, thinning at the crown, hair becoming thinner and shorter, and a similar family history.
When should you see a doctor for male pattern hair loss?
If the hair loss has increased quickly, if it falls out evenly from the whole scalp, if there is redness or itching on the scalp, or if you want to learn your options.
Which treatments are considered for male pattern hair loss?
Options such as PRP, mesotherapy and hair transplantation are assessed by the doctor according to the person.
