Male Pattern Hair Loss

Male Pattern Hair Loss

Source: dermnetnz.org

Male Pattern Hair Loss, also known as male androgenetic alopecia, is the most common cause of hair loss in men. It affects approximately half of all men by the age of 50 and can begin as early as the late teens or twenties.

The condition develops gradually and is characterised by a receding hairline, thinning over the crown and, in some men, progressive baldness. While male pattern hair loss is not harmful to physical health, it can have a significant impact on confidence and self-esteem.

At Mermaid Beach Dermatology, our Specialist Dermatologists provide comprehensive assessment and evidence-based treatments to slow hair loss, preserve existing hair and stimulate regrowth where possible.

Early treatment offers the best opportunity to maintain your hair.

Request Appointment

About Male Pattern Hair Loss

  • What causes male pattern hair loss?

    Male pattern hair loss is an inherited condition caused by a combination of genetics and male hormones (androgens).

    Hair follicles in genetically susceptible individuals become increasingly sensitive to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone derived from testosterone. Over time, DHT causes affected hair follicles to gradually shrink (miniaturise), producing finer, shorter hairs until they eventually stop producing visible hair.

    Although testosterone plays a role, most men with male pattern hair loss have normal hormone levels.

  • Who develops male pattern hair loss?

    Male pattern hair loss is extremely common and may begin at almost any adult age.

    You are more likely to develop it if:

    • You have a family history of hair loss

    • Hair thinning began at a younger age

    • Close male or female relatives have androgenetic alopecia

    The condition may be inherited from either side of the family.

  • What are the symptoms?

    Hair loss usually develops slowly over many years.

    Typical features include:

    • Receding hairline

    • Thinning at the temples

    • Thinning over the crown (vertex)

    • Progressive reduction in hair density

    • Finer, shorter hairs

    • Increased visibility of the scalp

    Some men notice only mild thinning, while others develop extensive baldness over time.

  • Stages of male pattern hair loss

    Male pattern hair loss follows a predictable pattern that is commonly described using the Hamilton-Norwood classification.

    It often begins with recession at the temples, followed by thinning at the crown. As the condition progresses, these areas may gradually merge, leaving hair around the sides and back of the scalp.

    The rate of progression varies considerably between individuals.

  • Could my hair loss be caused by something else?

    Not all hair loss in men is male pattern baldness.

    Other causes include:

    • Alopecia areata

    • Telogen effluvium

    • Iron deficiency

    • Thyroid disorders

    • Scalp psoriasis

    • Seborrhoeic dermatitis

    • Scarring alopecia

    • Certain medications

    • Severe illness or surgery

    An accurate diagnosis is essential before treatment begins.

  • How is male pattern hair loss diagnosed?

    Your dermatologist will perform a detailed assessment including:

    • Medical history

    • Family history

    • Examination of the scalp

    • Trichoscopy (dermoscopy of the scalp)

    Occasionally, blood tests or a scalp biopsy may be recommended if another diagnosis is suspected.

  • How is male pattern hair loss treated?

    Treatment aims to slow progression, preserve existing hair and stimulate thicker hair growth.

    Because hair grows slowly, treatment usually needs to be continued for 6–12 months before significant improvement is seen.

    Treatment options may include:

    • Topical minoxidil

    • Low-dose oral minoxidil

    • Oral finasteride

    • Dutasteride in selected patients

    • Hair transplantation (for suitable candidates)

    • Treatment of contributing medical conditions

    Your dermatologist will discuss the benefits and potential side effects of each treatment to determine the most appropriate option for you.

  • Minoxidil

    Minoxidil is one of the most widely used treatments for male pattern hair loss.

    It helps prolong the hair growth phase and increases the size of miniaturised hair follicles, allowing thicker hairs to develop over time.

    Minoxidil is available as a topical solution or foam, and selected patients may benefit from low-dose oral minoxidil, prescribed under specialist supervision.

    Some men notice increased hair shedding during the first few weeks of treatment. This is temporary and usually reflects the normal transition into a new hair growth cycle.

  • Finasteride

    Finasteride is a prescription medication that works by reducing the production of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), the hormone responsible for follicle miniaturisation in male pattern hair loss.

    It can slow or stop further hair loss in many men and may stimulate new hair growth.

    Like all prescription medications, finasteride has potential side effects, and your dermatologist will discuss whether it is appropriate for your individual circumstances.

  • Dutasteride

    Dutasteride is another medication that reduces DHT levels and may be considered in selected patients, particularly when hair loss continues despite other treatments.

    Because its use for male pattern hair loss is off-label in Australia, your dermatologist will discuss the potential benefits and risks before prescribing it.

  • Hair transplantation

    Hair transplantation may be an option for selected patients with stable male pattern hair loss.

    The best results are usually achieved when surgery is combined with medical treatment to preserve the surrounding hair.

    Your dermatologist can advise whether referral for hair transplantation is appropriate.

  • Will my hair grow back?

    Male pattern hair loss is a chronic condition that gradually progresses if left untreated.

    While treatment cannot usually restore every lost hair, early intervention can:

    • Slow further hair loss

    • Improve hair density

    • Increase hair thickness

    • Preserve existing hair for longer

    The earlier treatment begins, the better the long-term outcome.

  • Why choose Mermaid Beach Dermatology?

    Our Specialist Dermatologists have experience diagnosing all forms of male hair loss.

    We provide:

    • Comprehensive scalp assessment

    • Trichoscopy (dermoscopic scalp examination)

    • Investigation for underlying causes of hair loss

    • Prescription topical and oral medications

    • Long-term monitoring

    • Individualised treatment plans

    Our aim is to diagnose the cause of hair loss early and provide effective treatments that help maintain healthy hair for as long as possible.

  • Yes. Male pattern hair loss is largely inherited and may be passed down from either your mother's or father's side of the family.

  • No. Wearing hats does not cause male pattern hair loss.

  • Stress does not cause androgenetic alopecia, but significant stress may trigger telogen effluvium, a separate condition that causes temporary hair shedding.

  • Finasteride is one of the most effective medical treatments available for male pattern hair loss. It slows progression in many men and can improve hair density when started early.

  • Not necessarily. Even men with established hair loss may benefit from treatment, although earlier intervention generally produces better results because more functioning hair follicles remain.

  • You should arrange a consultation if you notice:

    • A receding hairline.

    • Thinning at the crown.

    • Progressive hair loss.

    • Excessive hair shedding.

    • Hair loss affecting your confidence or quality of life.

    • Hair loss associated with scalp redness, scaling or itching.

Frequently Asked Questions

Contact Us

Call us on 07 5597 0016 or complete the form below