Male pattern hair loss

Male pattern hair loss is mainly caused by inherited traits and a hormone called DHT. In sensitive hair follicles, DHT leads to thinner, shorter hairs over time. The usual pattern is a receding hairline or thinning crown. A licensed physician can check whether your hair loss fits this pattern.

Male pattern hair loss is usually diagnosed from the pattern of thinning, your health history, and a scalp exam. Photos may help during a telehealth visit. Sudden shedding, patchy loss, or scalp pain may point to another cause and may require an in-person exam or further testing before treatment.

Common treatments for male pattern hair loss include finasteride and topical minoxidil. Physicians sometimes prescribe dutasteride or oral minoxidil off-label. These treatments may slow thinning or support some regrowth. Results vary. A licensed physician in your state decides which option, if any, fits your health history and treatment goals.

Finasteride and dutasteride lower DHT by blocking enzymes that convert testosterone into DHT. This may slow follicle shrinkage and hair thinning in male pattern hair loss. Results vary. Oral finasteride is approved for this condition; dutasteride is used off-label. Both require a physician's review of benefits and possible risks.

Minoxidil is used for male pattern hair loss as a scalp treatment or, in some cases, an off-label oral prescription. It may support hair growth without lowering DHT. Results vary. Follow the directions for your exact product, since topical and oral forms have different dosing instructions and safety risks.

Treatment for male pattern hair loss usually needs several months before you can judge a visible change. Results vary. Less shedding or stable hair density may matter as much as regrowth. Your physician can set a review schedule based on your medicine, starting pattern, side effects, and treatment goals.

Side effects of male pattern hair loss treatment depend on the medicine and how it is used. Finasteride and dutasteride can cause sexual side effects. Topical minoxidil can irritate the scalp. Oral minoxidil can cause dizziness, swelling, and heart-related problems. Review your specific prescription's risks with your physician before starting.

Temporary increased shedding can happen after starting minoxidil for male pattern hair loss. It may reflect a shift in the hair growth cycle, but it does not prove treatment is working. Results vary. Tell your physician about heavy, prolonged, patchy, or painful shedding rather than assuming it is expected.

Male pattern hair loss usually continues when treatment stops. Hair maintained or gained with a medicine may be lost over the following months. Results vary. Talk with your physician before stopping or switching, especially if you take oral minoxidil or have side effects that need a separate medical review.

People with heart or blood pressure problems, liver disease, fertility concerns, or a history of mood symptoms may need extra review before male pattern hair loss treatment. Your other medicines also matter. A licensed physician in your state decides if treatment is appropriate after reviewing your health history and risks.