Male Pattern Baldness Symptoms, Causes, Diagnose & Prevention

Male pattern baldness is a widespread disorder that affects a large number of males throughout the world. It is distinguished by a distinct pattern of hair loss, which frequently begins with a receding hairline and crown thinning. This disorder can significantly influence a man’s self-esteem and confidence. 

Understanding male pattern baldness symptoms is essential for early identification and treatment. In this quick review, TH Cosmetic will look at the common signs of male pattern baldness and how they impact afflicted people.

About male pattern baldness

Male pattern baldness, known as androgenetic alopecia, is a common form of hair loss that primarily affects men. It is characterized by a gradual and predictable pattern of hair thinning and loss, usually starting at the hairline and the crown of the head. The condition is hereditary and is the most common cause of hair loss in men.

The main cause of male pattern baldness is the influence of hormones, specifically dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a byproduct of testosterone. DHT is thought to shrink hair follicles over time, leading to thinner and shorter hair growth cycles. This process is known as miniaturization.

The typical progression of male pattern baldness follows a pattern:

• Receding hairline: The hairline at the temples gradually recedes, forming an “M” shape.
• Thinning crown: Hair loss progresses at the top of the head, leading to a widening bald spot or thinning of the hair in that area.
• Baldness: Over time, the receding hairline and the thinning crown may meet, resulting in complete baldness at the top of the head, with hair remaining only at the sides and back (the horseshoe pattern).
• Male pattern baldness is more common as men age, but it can begin as early as the late teens or early 20s. The rate and extent of hair loss can vary among individuals and can be influenced by genetic factors, hormones, and lifestyle.

Who is prone to get affected by male pattern baldness?

Male pattern baldness, also known as androgenetic alopecia, is a common condition that primarily affects men, though it can also occur in some women. It is the most prevalent cause of hair loss and is characterized by a predictable pattern of hair thinning and loss.

The condition is influenced by a combination of genetic and hormonal factors, primarily dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a derivative of the male hormone testosterone. People who are more likely to experience male pattern baldness include:

• Men: As the name suggests, male pattern baldness primarily affects men. It typically starts to manifest in adult males, often beginning with a receding hairline and/or thinning at the crown of the head.
• Family History: One of the strongest risk factors for male pattern baldness is a family history of the condition. If your father, grandfather, or other close male relatives have experienced hair loss, you might be more prone to it.
• Age: Male pattern baldness tends to become more prevalent with age. It often starts to appear in men in their 30s or 40s, but the onset and progression can vary among individuals.
• Hormonal Factors: As mentioned earlier, DHT plays a significant role in male pattern baldness. Men with higher levels of DHT or are more sensitive to its effects are more likely to experience hair loss.
• Race and Ethnicity: Male pattern baldness is more common among certain racial and ethnic groups, with Caucasians being more affected compared to Asians and African-Americans.
• Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as prostate cancer or disorders related to androgen production, can increase the risk of male pattern baldness.

Male Pattern Baldness Symptoms

The primary cause of male pattern baldness is a combination of genetic factors and the influence of male hormones called androgens. The condition typically follows a specific pattern of hair loss, which certain symptoms can recognize. Here are the details of the symptoms associated with male pattern baldness:

Gradual hair thinning on the crown

One of the early signs of male pattern baldness is the thinning of hair at the top of the scalp, often referred to as the crown. 

As the condition progresses, the hair follicles in this area become smaller, resulting in shorter, finer, and less pigmented hair. Over time, the hair may become so thin that the scalp becomes more visible, creating the appearance of a bald spot.

Hair thinning or loss near the temples 

Another common symptom of male pattern baldness is the gradual thinning of hair around the temples. This can lead to a distinctive “M” shape in the hairline, where the hairline recedes and forms a more pronounced widow’s peak. As the hairline recedes, the temple areas may become more apparent and eventually merge with the thinning crown region.

Receding hairline

Male pattern baldness often starts with a receding hairline. The hairline at the front of the scalp gradually moves backward, exposing more of the forehead. This receding pattern is characteristic of male pattern baldness and distinguishes it from other forms of hair loss.

Miniaturization of hair follicles

As male pattern baldness progresses, affected hair follicles undergo miniaturization. Miniaturization refers to the shrinking of hair follicles over time, which results in the production of thinner and weaker hair strands. Eventually, the affected hair follicles may stop producing new hairs, leading to more noticeable bald patches.

Thinning hair on other areas

In some cases, male pattern baldness can also cause hair thinning on other parts of the body, such as the chest, back, and beard. However, the scalp is the most commonly affected area.

Tests & Diagnose for Male Pattern Baldness

Male pattern baldness, also known as androgenetic alopecia, is a common condition that affects many men as they age. It is characterized by a gradual and predictable pattern of hair loss, typically starting at the hairline and temples and progressing to the crown of the head. To diagnose male pattern baldness, several tests and evaluations can be performed:

• Medical history: A doctor will first take a detailed medical history, including questions about the pattern and progression of hair loss, any family history of baldness, and any underlying medical conditions or medications contributing to the hair loss.
• Physical examination: A thorough examination of the scalp and hair will assess the pattern and extent of hair loss. This examination may involve checking the density of hair, the quality of hair shafts, and the presence of any inflammation or scaling on the scalp.
• Pull test: The doctor gently pulls on several hairs to see how many come out during this test. In male pattern baldness, more hairs may be in the telogen (shedding) phase.
• Hair loss classification: The Hamilton-Norwood scale is commonly used to classify the extent of male pattern baldness. It ranges from Stage I (minimal hair loss) to Stage VII (extensive hair loss).
• Phototrichogram: This non-invasive test involves taking close-up photographs of the scalp to analyze hair density and growth patterns.

Sometimes, the doctor may order blood tests to rule out underlying medical conditions that could be causing or contributing to hair loss. However, male pattern baldness is primarily a genetic and hormonal condition, so blood tests are not always necessary for diagnosis.

Key Tips To Prevent Male Pattern Baldness

Male pattern baldness is a common condition that affects many men as they age. While it may not be entirely preventable, several key tips can help slow down its progression and maintain healthier hair

• Maintain a Healthy Diet: Ensure that your diet includes a variety of nutrients such as proteins, vitamins (especially biotin), minerals (like zinc and iron), and omega-3 fatty acids. These nutrients play a crucial role in promoting healthy hair growth.
• Avoid Tight Hairstyles: Avoid hairstyles that pull or strain the hair, such as tight ponytails or man buns. Traction alopecia, a type of hair loss caused by pulling, can worsen male pattern baldness in susceptible individuals.
• Limit Heat Styling and Chemical Treatments: Excessive use of heat-styling tools (like blow dryers, straighteners, and curling irons) and harsh chemical treatments (such as perming or coloring) can damage hair and contribute to hair loss.
• Manage Stress: Chronic stress can contribute to hair loss. Engage in stress-reducing activities like meditation, exercise, yoga, or spending time with loved ones.
• Use Gentle Hair Care Products: Choose shampoos and conditioners suitable for your hair type and avoid products containing harsh chemicals that can damage the hair and scalp.
• Scalp Massage: Regularly massage your scalp to improve blood circulation, which can help nourish hair follicles and promote healthy hair growth.
• Avoid Overwashing: Washing hair too frequently can strip the scalp of its natural oils, essential for healthy hair. Aim to wash your hair every other day or as needed.
• Protect Your Hair from the Sun: Prolonged sun exposure can damage hair and lead to dryness and breakage. Wear a hat or use hair products with UV protection when spending extended periods outdoors.
• Consult a Dermatologist: If you notice significant hair loss or thinning, it’s essential to consult a dermatologist or a healthcare professional specializing in hair loss. They can help determine the underlying cause and recommend appropriate treatments or lifestyle changes.

FAQs

Are there any natural remedies or home treatments for male pattern baldness?

While various home remedies and natural treatments are promoted for hair growth, their effectiveness in treating male pattern baldness is often limited. Some may help improve hair health but are unlikely to reverse significant hair loss. It’s essential to be cautious and consult a healthcare professional before relying solely on home remedies.

Does wearing hats or using hair products cause male pattern baldness?

Wearing hats or using hair products like gels or hairspray does not cause male pattern baldness. 

However, excessive pulling or tight hairstyles (e.g., tight ponytails) can lead to traction alopecia, which differs from male pattern baldness. It’s essential to avoid hairstyles that put undue stress on the hair and scalp.

Can male pattern baldness affect body hair?

Male pattern baldness typically affects the hair on the scalp and not body hair. The growth and pattern of body hair are not directly linked to male pattern baldness.

Can male pattern baldness be a sign of an underlying health condition?

In most cases, male pattern baldness is a hereditary and natural condition and not indicative of an underlying health issue. However, sudden or severe hair loss could be a symptom of other medical conditions, so it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional for a proper evaluation.

Does male pattern baldness affect all ethnicities equally?

Male pattern baldness can affect men of all ethnicities; however, its prevalence may vary. Some ethnic groups may have a higher incidence of male pattern baldness, while others may have a lower frequency.

Can certain medications or medical treatments cause male pattern baldness?

Some medications, such as chemotherapy drugs, can cause temporary hair loss but do not cause male pattern baldness. However, some medications used for other conditions may list hair loss as a side effect.

Conclusion

In conclusion, male pattern baldness is a common disorder with specific symptoms that mostly affect the hairline and the top of the head. Identifying these signs early on allows people to address the problem and seek appropriate therapy proactively. 

While male pattern baldness has no substantial physical dangers, it can considerably impact an individual’s mental well-being and self-confidence.