Hair & Scalp
Male Pattern Hair Loss
MPHL; male androgenetic alopecia
Very common; most men over time
No — you cannot catch it or spread it
Manageable; treatment slows loss & can regrow
What Is It?
Male pattern hair loss is the common, gradual thinning that causes a receding hairline and thinning at the crown, eventually leaving hair around the sides and back. It's driven by genetics and hormones and progresses slowly over years. Treatment works best when started early to keep existing hair.
Signs & Symptoms
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Receding hairline, often starting at the temples
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Thinning at the crown (the "bald spot")
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Finer, shorter hairs over the affected areas
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Gradual progression over years
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Hair usually preserved at the sides and back
Why Does It Happen?
Hair follicles that are genetically sensitive to a hormone called DHT (a form of testosterone) gradually shrink, producing finer, shorter hairs until they stop growing. This tendency is inherited. It is a normal, benign process — NOT caused by hats, washing, or hair products.
Treatment Options
Treatment slows loss and can regrow hair; benefits continue only while treatment is used. Starting early protects more of your existing hair.
MINOXIDIL
Topical (or low-dose oral) minoxidil to slow loss and regrow hair.
FINASTERIDE
A pill that blocks DHT to slow loss and support regrowth.
COMBINATION
Minoxidil plus finasteride often works better than either alone.
PROCEDURES
PRP or hair transplant for selected cases.
Tips for Managing It at Home
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Start early — treatment protects the hair you still have
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Use treatments consistently; hair loss resumes if you stop
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Have realistic expectations — slowing loss is itself a success
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Beware unproven "miracle" products
When to Call Your Provider
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Sudden, patchy, or rapid hair loss (not typical gradual thinning)
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Scalp redness, scaling, itching, or scarring
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Side effects from a hair-loss medication
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You'd like to start or adjust treatment
Sources & further reading
The information in this handout is based on general dermatology guidance from the reputable organizations below. These links are provided for patients who wish to read more from trusted sources.
American Academy of Dermatology (AAD). Hair Loss: Types. https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/hair-loss/types
Canadian Dermatology Association (CDA). Alopecia. https://dermatology.ca/public-patients/diseases-conditions/hair-conditions/alopecia/
DermNet. Male Pattern Hair Loss (Androgenetic Alopecia). https://dermnetnz.org/topics/androgenetic-alopecia
MSD/Merck Manual. Alopecia. https://www.msdmanuals.com/professional/dermatologic-disorders/hair-disorders/alopecia
This handout is for general education and does not replace advice from your own provider. Always follow your provider’s specific instructions.
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