Everything About Male Pattern Baldness Stages, Symptoms and Causes

Are you tired of staring at your receding hairline or bald patches in the mirror? You are not alone, as hair loss is a very common problem that affects a lot of people, and unfortunately, it can be a significant source of stress and anxiety. It is also known as Androgenetic Alopecia, affecting 30-50% of men by age 50. It has been studied extensively to determine its prevalence and risk factors. 

In Australia, a survey of 1390 men between the ages of 40 and 69 found that the incidence of vertex or full baldness (Norwood Hamilton scale) increases with age, from 31% among men aged 40-55 to 53% among men aged 65-69. Receding frontal hairline was also observed in 25% of men aged 40-55 and 31% aged 65-69. 

Similarly, in the USA, the prevalence of moderate or severe male pattern baldness was found to be 53% in the age group of 40-49. 

In Singaporean males, the prevalence of male Androgenetic Alopecia was reported to be 63% and was observed to increase with age, from 32% at 17-26 years to 100% after 80 years. Read on to learn about male pattern baldness stages, symptoms and causes!

Table of Contents

1. What Is Male Pattern Baldness?

2. Norwood Scale: Male Pattern Baldness Stages

3. What Causes Male Pattern Baldness?

4. Male Pattern Baldness Symptoms 

5. The Final Say

6. FAQs

7. References

What Is Male Pattern Baldness?

Male pattern baldness is a type of hair loss that affects many adult men. It's commonly known as “Androgenetic Alopecia”. Hair loss starts at the hairline above the temples and then progresses to the head's top or 'crown', creating a horseshoe-shaped pattern of hair. 

Although it is typically observed in older men, even young adult men can experience male pattern baldness. In the normal hair growth cycle, hair remains in a growth phase (known as the anagen phase) for roughly 3 to 6 years before falling out and new hair grows. 

However, in male pattern balding, hair in the affected crown areas has a much shorter growth phase of weeks or months before falling out, resulting in thinning and bald patches.

Also Read: 8 Proven Home Remedies For Hair Growth

Norwood Scale: Male Pattern Baldness Stages

The Norwood scale (balding scale) is the range that decides the balding process in individuals. It is scaled from 1 to 7 and thus helps in predicting the hair loss pattern and its progression. The 7 stages include the following:

1. Minimal Hair Loss (Stage 1)

This is the early stage male pattern baldness, commonly known as the “control stage”. In this stage, you would not notice any hair loss on the head. You will only observe a little hair thinning around the temple without losing crown hair. It's like the control level, where people still have full hair and very few signs of baldness or receding hairline. 

How to control hair loss at stage 1?

You can prevent your hair loss by following some healthy habits like:

• Eating a healthy and nutritious diet

• Doing regular physical exercises like rope jumping, swimming or walking

• Cutting down on alcohol and smoking

  
  

Also Read: Walnuts And Their Benefits For Hair

2. Onset of Hairline (Stage 2)

The second stage is often referred to as the "mature hairline”. This stage starts with a slight recession of the hairline, usually around the temples. But, worry not at no crown hair loss marks it. There are options to control hair loss at this stage.

How to control hair loss at MPB Stage 2?

The onset of hair loss marks stage 2, so you must seek advice from your doctor. Depending on the symptoms, he may suggest medications to slow down your hair loss, like minoxidil and finasteride. Moreover, you can follow some tips to control hair loss, like 

• Avoid tight hairstyles that can pull on your hair.

• Avoid washing your hair too often.

• Use a mild shampoo and conditioner can be helpful.

• Avoid using curlers or straighteners.

• Eat a healthy diet and get regular exercise.

  
  

Also Read: Red Onion For Hair Fall

3. M, V and U Shaped Hairline (Stage 3)

The androgenic alopecia stage 3 is noticeable enough to cause concern. In this stage a visible hairline recession in M, V and U shape forms at the top of the head. 

How to control hair loss at MPB stage 3?

Your doctor may suggest medication based on symptoms like:

• Minoxidil

This topical solution is generally applied to the scalp. It helps to increase the blood flow to the scalp and stimulate hair growth. It may cause some side effects, such as itching or scalp irritation.

• Finasteride

This oral medication is taken once a day. It stops the production of DHT (dihydrotestosterone ), a hormone that contributes to hair loss. It may cause some adverse effects, such as decreased libido and erectile dysfunction.

Also Read: Herbal Teas For Hair Growth And Healthy Scalp

4. Severe Hair Loss (Stage 4) 

At this stage, hair loss can be quite severe and noticeable. Typically, the hairline will have receded at the temples, forming a distinct U-shape. 

The bald spot at the crown of the head may have increased in size since the previous stage, but there will still be a thick band of hair separating it from the edges of the hairline. As a result, hair loss at the front of the scalp can be quite prominent, making it more evident that one may be experiencing balding.

How to control hair loss at MPB stage 4?

You can continue with medication like Finasteride (Propecia) and Minoxidil (Rogaine) for controlling hair loss. You can also get help with hair transplantation. It involves removing hair follicles from one part of the scalp and transplanting them to the balding area. 

5. Advanced Hair Loss (Stage 5)

Stage 5 is the advanced version of Stage 4. In this, you can observe extensive crown and temple hair loss. There is a distinction between hair and hairline on the head. As conditions worsen, the hair strands or bands on both sides gradually become thinner. The horseshoe-shaped pattern of hair loss is very noticeable at this stage.

How to control hair loss at stage 5?

Hair loss meds like Finasteride and Minoxidil aren't effective alone. Your surgeon may recommend them to enhance results before/after a hair transplant. Hair transplants work best for stage 5 patients but may not suit everyone due to donor hair availability. A pre-surgical consultation can determine if a FUE hair transplant suits you.

6. Complete Hair Loss on The Top of The Head (Stage 6)

This stage of MPB is marked by complete hair loss that is visible on the top of the head. There is hair around the edges of the crown, while the middle of the scalp is bald, creating a horseshoe-shaped pattern of remaining hair.

How to control hair loss at MPB stage 6?

Hair loss can be treated with medication, but if baldness is nearly complete, medication may not be effective. In such cases, a FUE hair transplant is the only treatment option. If you are experiencing this stage, it's best to consult with a doctor to determine the appropriate course of treatment.

7. Thinning Of The Other Hair (Stage 7)

At stage 7 of the Norwood scale, hair loss is at its most severe. The remaining hair, which forms a horseshoe shape around the lower back and sides of the scalp, becomes thinner and more brittle.

How to control MPB stage 7?

By the time male pattern hair loss reaches stage 7, treatment options become quite limited. Patients can either shave their remaining hair or use artificial hair solutions like hats, toupees, or wigs. 

Although hair transplant surgery is still an option, full coverage is unlikely. Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT) is a better option for hair transplant as it allows surgeons to harvest more hair follicles than the FUE method. However, it is most suitable for patients with large bald areas.

Male Pattern Baldness Symptoms 

Male baldness generally starts after puberty and develops gradually. You may notice your hair thinning progressively at your temples and your hairline slowly receding. Some of the other symptoms are:

• Gradual hair thinning on the scalp, especially on the crown and temples

• Receding hairline forming an "M" shape

• Hair loss starting at the temples and crown of the head

• Increased visibility of the scalp

• Thinning hair that progresses to partial or complete baldness

• Often characterised by a horseshoe-shaped pattern of hair around the sides and back of the head, while the top becomes bald

What Causes Male Pattern Baldness?

There's no particular reason behind the cause of male pattern baldness; sometimes, it's caused by certain medical conditions or the interaction of hormones, genetics, and age. Despite these, there are numerous more reasons for male pattern baldness. A few of them are –   

The Final Say

Male pattern baldness or Androgenetic Alopecia is one of the most common hair conditions affecting most men worldwide. It is generally observed in old age individuals, but in the current scenario, even individuals aged 18 years or above face this issue due to poor lifestyle or eating habits.

Understanding the stages of MPB makes you aware of the possible control measures that you can take on time. Moreover, knowing the causes and symptoms can help you to identify the reason for hair loss. Lastly, talking to your doctor can benefit you in every aspect. If you need more information, then visit ToneoOp!

FAQs

1. Can hair grow back after thinning?  

Yes, hair can grow back after thinning you just need to follow a healthy lifestyle like eating nutritious food, doing regular exercise and maintaining your hair care routine.    

2. How quickly does male pattern baldness progress?

Male pattern baldness is a slow process, as it generally takes 15 to 25 years to reach the complete baldness stage. 

3. Is Androgenetic Alopecia permanent?  

There are treatments available to diagnose Androgenetic Alopecia, but the hair follicles formerly affected by it can not re-grow, as they are permanently damaged.   

4. Is male pattern baldness inherited? 

Yes, it is a genetic condition passed on to offspring from their ancestors.

5. What is male pattern baldness age?

Male pattern baldness can start at any age, but it is most common in men over the age of 50.

References

• Male Androgenetic Alopecia - Endotext - NCBI Bookshelf 

• Male Pattern Baldness - Symptoms and Causes

• Male pattern baldness | healthdirect

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