Reasons for Hair Loss in Men

Men most commonly lose hair due to androgenetic alopecia (male pattern baldness)—a genetic sensitivity that leads to a receding hairline and/or crown thinning. Severity varies: some men stabilise with early action, while others progress to advanced loss. Crucially, MPB isn’t the only cause—below are the 13 most common reasons men lose hair, plus targeted fixes.

13 Reasons for Hair Loss in Men

1. Genetics (Male Pattern Baldness)
   What it looks like: Temple recession (M-shape), crown thinning, gradual miniaturisation.
   Action: Start an early routine: topical minoxidil, ketoconazole shampoo, microneedling/LLLT, nutrition support. See the Norwood–Hamilton scale to gauge stage.
2. Hormonal Sensitivity to DHT
   What it looks like: Similar to MPB; follicles on top/crown thin first.
   Action: Discuss DHT-targeting options with a clinician; support scalp health with DHT education, ketoconazole shampoos, and non-drug support.
3. Ageing (Senescent Alopecia)
   What it looks like: Finer strands, reduced volume, slower growth cycles.
   Action: Protein-rich diet, correct iron/vitamin D if low, add LLLT and a comprehensive supplement for ongoing support.
4. Medical Conditions (thyroid imbalance, autoimmune disorders incl. alopecia areata, scalp infections)
   What it looks like: Diffuse thinning, patchy loss, or inflamed/itchy scalp.
   Action: Get a medical work-up. For areata specifics, see Alopecia Areata.
5. Medications (e.g., some treatments for cancer, depression, hypertension, gout)
   What it looks like: Increased shedding weeks after a new drug.
   Action: Never stop a prescription without advice—ask your doctor about alternatives or mitigation.
6. Acute or Chronic Stress (Telogen Effluvium)
   What it looks like: Big uptick in shedding 2–3 months after stress/illness/surgery/fever; ponytail or overall density feels reduced.
   Action: Remove triggers, restore sleep and nutrition, consider microneedling/LLLT plus gentle scalp care; density typically returns over months.
7. Poor Diet & Nutrient Gaps
   What it looks like: Dull, brittle strands; persistent shedding if iron/ferritin, vitamin D, or protein intake is low.
   Action: Correct deficiencies and consider a complete hair-focused supplement for daily coverage.
8. Smoking
   What it looks like: Duller hair quality, slower growth, aggravated thinning over time.
   Action: Smoking cessation; support scalp micro-circulation with massage and consistent topical routine.
9. Tight Hairstyles / Traction
   What it looks like: Receding edges/temples; broken hairs along tension lines.
   Action: Loosen styles; traction loss can become permanent if prolonged.
10. Excessive Heat/Chemical Styling
    What it looks like: Breakage and frizz rather than true follicle loss.
    Action: Reduce heat, use bond-building/conditioning care, and protect with heat-safe settings.
11. Rapid Weight Loss / Crash Dieting
    What it looks like: Shedding 2–3 months after significant calorie deficit or illness.
    Action: Stabilise intake, prioritise protein and micronutrients; shedding typically resolves with recovery.
12. Anabolic Steroids
    What it looks like: Accelerated thinning where genetically predisposed.
    Action: Discontinue use and seek medical advice; focus on scalp health and supportive care.
13. Lack of Sleep
    What it looks like: Slower growth, increased daily fall.
    Action: Aim for 7–9 hours; pair sleep hygiene with a consistent routine (minoxidil/ketoconazole/LLLT).

Note: Male pattern baldness remains the leading cause overall, driven by genetics and androgen sensitivity. Early, consistent intervention matters.

Treatment Options for Hair Loss in Men

Match treatment to the cause. Most options require 3–6 months before judging results, and combinations tend to work best.

Medications

• Topical minoxidil (5% foam/liquid): OTC; can increase hair counts and calibre. Initial shedding/irritation is possible.
• Oral finasteride (Rx): Reduces scalp DHT; slows/maintains in many users. Discuss benefits/risks with your clinician.
• Ketoconazole shampoos: Useful for scalp health and as an adjunct 2–3× weekly.
• Topical corticosteroids (Rx): For autoimmune/ inflammatory causes like alopecia areata (under medical guidance).

Procedures & Devices

• Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT): Caps/hoods/combs can complement medical or topical routines; results vary.
• PRP therapy: In-clinic platelet-rich plasma injections; often used in combination plans. Learn more.
• Microneedling: Weekly/biweekly with a derma roller/stamp to enhance topicals and growth factors. Guide.
• Hair transplant surgery: For suitable candidates with stable loss and adequate donor hair.

Non-Drug Support

• Nutrition & lifestyle: Correct iron/ferritin, vitamin D, thyroid; prioritise protein, sleep, stress control.
• Cosmetic cover-ups: Fibres and concealers for immediate fullness while treatment works.
• Scalp serums: Options including KGF-based serums to support scalp environment.

Drug-Free Support: HR23+

HR23+ is a comprehensive, drug-free supplement designed to help reduce excessive shedding and support stronger, fuller-looking hair. It pairs well with topical minoxidil, microneedling, ketoconazole shampoos, and LLLT—especially in the early to mid stages of thinning.

• Targets multiple nutrition pathways involved in the hair cycle
• Complements medical and non-medical routines
• Suitable for long-term maintenance of density

FAQ & When to See a Specialist

How do I know if it’s MPB or something else? MPB shows a patterned recession/crown thinning. Sudden patchy loss, scalp symptoms, or diffuse shedding after illness/medication suggest other causes—see a GP/dermatologist.

How long until I see results? Most regimens need 3–6 months. Assess with photos under consistent lighting every 4–6 weeks.

When should I get help? Rapid changes, patchy loss, scaly/itchy scalp, or uncertainty about cause warrant a professional review.