Male Pattern Hair Loss (Androgenetic Alopecia)
Male pattern hair loss is the slow, patterned miniaturisation of hair at the temples and crown, driven by the hormone DHT acting on genetically sensitive follicles.
Is this me?
- The hairline moves back at the corners, forming an M shape
- The crown or vertex thins and the scalp shows in bright light
- Hair on the top feels finer and shorter than hair at the back and sides
- Ponytail or comb-over no longer covers the same area
- A parent or sibling has the same pattern
- The sides and back stay thick while the top thins
Why it happens
Every hair follicle goes through a growth phase (anagen), a short transition, and a resting phase before it sheds. In male pattern hair loss, follicles on the top of the scalp are genetically sensitive to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a derivative of testosterone. Each cycle those follicles spend less time growing and produce a shorter, finer hair. Over years the hair becomes so fine it no longer reaches the surface. This is called miniaturisation.
The hair at the back and sides is not DHT-sensitive, which is why it stays thick — and why it is the hair used in a transplant. Treatment works by two routes: keeping follicles in the growth phase longer (minoxidil, peptide serums, microneedling) and reducing the DHT effect (dutasteride, which is a prescription medicine). Started early, treatment protects what you still have. It cannot regrow a follicle that has already closed, which is why waiting costs you options.
What the doctor prescribes for this
Open the doctor-defined protocol for this condition. You will see the exact medicines with their dosing, the blood tests to get done, and whether a consultation is needed — and you can create the whole package in one click.
When to consult first
Sudden or patchy hair loss · scalp pain, sores, redness or oozing · scarring of the scalp · pregnant, trying to conceive or breastfeeding · under 18 · a heart or blood-pressure condition or medicines for it · hair loss getting rapidly worse.
What to expect, and when
Weeks 0–6: shedding may briefly increase when minoxidil is started. This is expected and settles. Weeks 8–12: daily fall usually reduces. Months 4–6: density changes become visible in photographs taken at the same angle and light. Beyond 6 months: the goal is holding what you have and slow gain. If nothing has changed by month 6 on a consistent routine, chat with the doctor rather than adding more products on your own.
If your hair fall is not under control after a consistent three to six months, chat with the doctor rather than adding more products on your own.
Common questions
Is male pattern baldness reversible?
Miniaturised follicles can be revived; follicles that have closed cannot. That is why treatment is about protecting the hair you still have, started as early as possible.
Do I have to use minoxidil forever?
The benefit lasts while treatment continues. If you stop, the follicles resume their natural course. The doctor can discuss maintenance options at your review.
Is dutasteride safe?
Neomax (dutasteride) is a prescription medicine. It is not sold without the doctor reviewing your case, and it is not suitable for everyone.
Should I consider a hair transplant?
A transplant is considered when there is stable, adequate donor hair and medical treatment alone cannot cover the area. It is a clinic assessment, not an online decision.
Educational information only. It does not replace diagnosis or treatment by a qualified medical professional. Results vary by cause, duration, adherence and individual response. Prescription medicines are dispensed only after the doctor approves.