Symptoms
- Receding temples or thinning crown
- Widening parting
- More hair on the pillow or in the shower
- Family history of pattern baldness
Hair loss (male pattern)
Male pattern hair loss is hormonal and genetic, affecting half of men by 50. Evidence-based treatments exist — they work best at keeping the hair you have, which is why starting earlier matters.
Researched & fact-checked by Kaiser Khan
Why it happens
Follicles genetically sensitive to DHT (a testosterone by-product) progressively miniaturise. It’s not caused by hats, washing, or normal-range testosterone levels.
Treatment
Two evidence-based approaches exist: topical treatment available over the counter, and prescription tablet treatment that lowers DHT — more effective for most men, and best discussed with a clinician. Combination use outperforms either alone. Judge any treatment at six months.
Self-care that helps
Consistent photographs in the same lighting to track honestly; general health (sleep, stress, nutrition) supports hair but won’t override genetics; be sceptical of shampoos and most supplements.
When to get help
Patchy loss, sudden shedding, scalp soreness or scarring suggest something other than pattern loss — get assessed, as some causes are reversible if treated early.
Go deeper
Related guides
Hair loss treatment side effects: tablets, sprays and what to watch for
Side effects of oral and topical hair loss treatments, what is common, what is rare, and when to speak to a prescriber.
Male hair loss: what works, what doesn't, and when to start
A clinician-reviewed guide to male pattern baldness — the evidence behind treatments, timelines, and the myths to ignore.
Available without prescription