Male Pattern Baldness

Male pattern baldness, the most common form of hair loss, is triggered by increased sensitivity to male hormones (androgens). Specific inherited genetic information can cause hair follicles to weaken when exposed to the hormone dihydro-testosterone (DHT).
An important distinction to make is that male pattern hair loss is one form of excessive hair loss. On any given day, approximately 50 to 100 hairs fall from the scalp, as hair follicles continually grow new hair to replace fallen hair. However, in the case of male pattern baldness, hair follicles become weakened by exposure to DHT and no longer produce new hair. The condition usually starts in men aged 20 to 30 and follows a typical pattern.

Causes of male pattern baldness

Male pattern baldness is known to be a genetic trait which men inherit from their maternal genetic pattern. That is, men are likely to inherit the hair pattern of their mothers’ father.
Genetic traits make hair follicles shrink, resulting in the actual density or thickness of hair grown diminishing. Eventually, they become so small that they cannot replace lost hairs. The follicles are still alive, but are no longer able to perform their task. In general, thinning on top begins in the frontal area, above the forehead, and may simultaneously occur on the crown region, resulting in a familiar ‘bald spot’.
To see what common baldness patterns look like, click Baldness Classification

Causes of hair loss in women

Baldness and hair loss in women can be caused by any number of reasons, including genetics, menopause and illness. Many women notice hair loss about 3 months after they've had a baby. This loss is also related to hormones. Women may develop female pattern baldness, where hair becomes thin over the entire scalp. The only treatment licensed for hair loss in women is Regaine Regular Strength

Can male hair loss be prevented?

Male hair loss is genetically determined. Although a doctor can offer medical treatment to treat the condition, this may have side effects.

What can be done about it?

You need to decide how you feel about hair loss. Male hair loss affects a large part of the male population and people react differently to it. You can read about the various treatment options here… Hair Loss Treatments Alternatively, you can complete an online medical consultation; our qualified GMC doctors provide individual medical advice via email, and can answer your questions on all aspects of male pattern baldness. This service is free and entirely confidential.

Prescription medication

There are a number of prescription drugs available to help with hair loss. As a responsible website, we only offer treatments once a private consultation has been completed, and reviewed by a registered UK doctor. The consultation is free and there is no obligation to buy any of the treatments that may be suggested - click here for a free online consultation.