Androgenetic alopecia
Also called Male pattern baldness, Male pattern hair loss, Female pattern hair loss
The commonest type of hair loss, following a recognisable pattern of a receding hairline and thinning on the crown.
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At a glance
- Who it affects
- Common in men; patterned loss can affect anyone.
- What you notice
- Receding hairline, crown thinning, or an M-shaped pattern.
- What helps
- May include medical or procedural options after diagnosis; response varies.
What we do
Your doctor may check other causes before discussing treatment. Response varies, and PRP/GFC may not suit everyone.
What you can do
- Note when shedding began.
- Avoid harsh hair treatments.
- Bring medicines and family history.
Read the full page on Androgenetic alopecia
What it is
Male pattern alopecia, also known as male pattern baldness or androgenetic alopecia, is the most common type of hair loss in men. It typically follows a recognisable pattern: the hairline gradually moves back, forming an “M” shape, and hair thins on the crown, often with a bald spot developing. Over time the thinning may progress to partial or complete baldness.
How quickly it progresses varies from person to person. Some men experience slow, gradual thinning; others lose hair more rapidly.
What causes it
It is primarily influenced by genetic factors and hormonal changes. A family history of baldness increases the likelihood of developing the condition. Androgens, particularly dihydrotestosterone (DHT), shrink the hair follicles, so the hair that grows back is shorter and finer.
How we diagnose it
Your doctor will assess your pattern of hair loss and review your medical history, and will examine the scalp closely to rule out other causes of hair loss.
How we treat it
Several treatments can help manage the condition and promote hair growth.
- Minoxidil applied to the scalp may stimulate hair growth and slow hair loss. It is available as a solution, gel or foam. Minoxidil tablets are also available if you cannot tolerate the applied formulations.
- Finasteride reduces DHT levels, which may reduce hair loss and encourage regrowth.
- Hair serums and nutritional supplements are also used, to help reduce excessive hair fall and support growth.
- PRP and GFC therapy injects a concentrate made from your own blood into the scalp, with the aim of stimulating hair growth and improving hair density. Response varies from person to person, and it does not suit everyone.
- Hair transplant surgery is a further option.
What you can do
Maintaining a healthy diet, managing stress and avoiding harsh hair treatments all help overall hair health. Early treatment can slow the process down and improve the chances of retaining the hair you have.
Reviewed by Dr. D. A. Satish · date to be confirmedUnder clinical review
This page is being updated. The clinical information here comes from the clinic’s own patient leaflet and is under review by the doctor. Please ask at your consultation.
The information on this website is for general education only. It is not a substitute for a consultation, a diagnosis or a prescription. Always see a qualified doctor about your own condition.