Common symptoms
Receding hairline
Gradual movement of the hairline backward from the forehead and temples
Thinning at crown
Hair becomes thinner and less dense at the top of the head
Diffuse shedding
Noticeable increase in hair loss when washing or brushing
Bald patches
Distinct areas of complete hair loss on the scalp
Male-pattern baldness (androgenetic alopecia) is the most common cause of hair loss in men and is driven by genetics and the hormone dihydrotestosterone (DHT). Hair loss begins at the temples or crown and progresses over time. Other causes include thyroid disorders, nutritional deficiencies, and stress.
Finasteride works by blocking DHT and typically slows or stops hair loss within 3 to 6 months. Minoxidil promotes blood flow to hair follicles. Both treatments must be continued indefinitely, as hair loss resumes if stopped.