Male pattern hair loss, also known as androgenetic alopecia, is the most common type of hair loss that affects men. It is a progressive condition and can have a significant impact on a man’s appearance and self-confidence.
Men may experience self-consciousness in public or avoid certain situations due to concerns about their appearance. In response, men develop coping strategies, like wearing hats or using hairstyles to conceal thinning areas. These solutions, however, do not solve the root of hair loss as professional treatments can…
Signs & Symptoms
The typical pattern of male baldness begins at the hairline.
- The Hairline gradually moves backwards (recedes) and forms an “M” shape.
- A circular area on the back of the head (vertex) often thins and expands in size over time.
- The hair becomes finer, shorter, and thinner and creates a U-shaped (or horseshoe) pattern of hair around the sides of the head.
The Norwood scale (or Hamilton-Norwood scale) is the leading classification system used to measure the extent of male pattern baldness
Common Causes
Male pattern baldness is related to genetics and the male sex hormones. It follows a pattern of receding hairline and hair thinning on the crown
Each strand of hair sits in a cavity in the skin, called a follicle. Baldness occurs when the hair follicles shrink over time, resulting in shorter and finer hair. Eventually, the follicle does not grow new hair. However, the follicle remains alive, suggesting that it is still possible to stimulate new hair growth.
Solutions
Depending on the severity of hair loss and the quality of the hair follicle, certain measures can be taken to prevent further hair loss and promote new hair growth.
Healthy diet
A balanced diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and proteins can support hair growth and minimise male pattern hair loss. You may also consider consuming supplements such as biotin, zinc and iron to make up for any deficiencies in your diet.
Scalp care
Regularly washing your hair and scalp using a gentle shampoo can remove excess sebum, dirt, and product buildup. Scalp massages can improve blood circulation and stimulate the hair follicles.
Medications
Some medications can help to slow down or stop progressive male pattern hair loss. Speak to our specialist to know more.
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) treatment
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) treatment involves extracting platelets from the patient’s blood and injecting them into the scalp. The growth factors present in platelets can stimulate hair follicles, improve blood circulation, and promote hair growth in male pattern hair loss.
Low-level laser treatment (LLLT)
Low-level laser treatment (LLLT) utilises red or near-infrared light to stimulate hair follicles and enhance hair growth.
Frequently asked questions
What is the main cause of male pattern hair loss?
Male pattern hair loss, or androgenetic alopecia, is primarily caused by a combination of genetic factors and hormonal changes.
It is believed that some individuals have hair follicles that are more sensitive to the hormone dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which causes the miniaturisation of hair follicles and eventual hair thinning and loss.
Will hair grow back after male pattern hair loss?
Once hair follicles have miniaturised and the hair has been lost, it is unlikely for significant regrowth to occur naturally.
However, with appropriate treatment, it is possible to slow down the progression of hair loss, promote hair follicle health, and stimulate regrowth
At what age do men start balding?
The age at which men start experiencing baldness can vary. Male pattern hair loss can begin as early as teenhood or early 20s, but it is more commonly observed as men enter their 30s, 40s, or later stages of life.
The onset and progression of male pattern hair loss can be influenced by genetic factors, hormonal fluctuations, and individual variations. It’s important to note that not all men will experience the same pattern or rate of hair loss, and some may maintain a full head of hair throughout their lives.
Meet your doctor
Dr. Jon Yong has ten years of experience in aesthetic medicine. Having graduated from the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland and the National University of Ireland, he carries a diverse background in surgery, emergency medicine, and anesthesiology.
Dr. Yong served as the Director of Aesthetics for Singapore Medical Group (SMG) from 2014 to 2018 before establishing his practice, Dr. Jon Yong Aesthetic Clinic, in 2018. He actively participates in lectures, seminars, and practical training to keep abreast of the rapidly evolving medical aesthetic industry.
Dr. Jong Yong is committed to his patient’s well-being and has a “less-is-more” philosophy, meaning he will only provide the necessary treatment for each aesthetic concern.
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