Hair Loss in Men
Causes, symptoms and evidence-based treatments for male hair loss, plus practical steps to protect density and plan your next move.
Around two-thirds of men experience some degree of hair loss by 40, with prevalence rising further by 50. While there is no permanent cure for chronic types such as male pattern baldness (MPB), effective strategies can slow progression, maintain coverage and, in some cases, stimulate visible thickening.
Before choosing a treatment, it helps to understand the type of hair loss you are experiencing, its likely cause and the pattern it is taking. Different forms of hair loss can require very different approaches.
The three primary types of hair loss in men.
Identifying the pattern and likely cause is an important first step before deciding how best to respond.
Anagen Effluvium
Rapid hair loss caused by treatments or events that affect follicles during the active growth phase, such as chemotherapy. Hair may recover once the underlying trigger has ended.
Telogen Effluvium
A larger-than-normal number of hairs enter the resting and shedding phase, often following illness, significant stress, nutritional deficiency or medication changes.
Androgenetic Alopecia
Male pattern baldness is the most common form of hair loss in men. Genetic sensitivity to androgens gradually miniaturises susceptible follicles, typically around the temples, hairline and crown.
Why does men's hair thin?
- Male pattern baldness: Genetic factors and sensitivity to androgens can progressively miniaturise susceptible hair follicles.
- Seasonal shedding: Some men notice temporary periods of increased shedding, which can make existing pattern thinning appear more noticeable.
- Alopecia areata: An autoimmune form of hair loss that commonly produces distinct patches and can be unpredictable.
- Traction and styling: Repeated tension, excessive heat and harsh chemical treatments can contribute to damage and hair loss.
- Medical and nutritional factors: Thyroid problems, iron or vitamin D deficiency, rapid weight change, medications, illness and surgery can all affect the hair cycle.
Typical symptoms and patterns.
- Recession around the temples or a gradually developing M-shaped hairline
- Thinning around the vertex or crown
- Diffuse thinning across the top of the scalp
- Increased scalp visibility as overall density decreases
- Hair becoming progressively finer as follicles miniaturise
- Periods of heavier shedding following illness, stress or other triggers
How to treat hair loss in men.
There is no single approach that suits every man. The right treatment depends on the cause, stage of loss, medical history and your attitude towards medication and other interventions.
Topical Minoxidil
Widely used for male pattern hair loss. Consistent application can help maintain hair and improve density in some men. Initial shedding and scalp irritation can occur.
Finasteride
A prescription treatment that reduces DHT and can slow progression of male pattern baldness. Benefits, risks and potential side effects should be discussed with a clinician.
Ketoconazole Shampoo
Commonly incorporated into hair-loss routines to support scalp health and manage conditions such as dandruff and seborrhoeic dermatitis.
Microneedling
Controlled scalp microneedling is sometimes used alongside other treatments and may help stimulate biological responses associated with hair growth.
Low-Level Laser Therapy
Laser caps, combs and similar devices are used by some men as a non-invasive addition to an established hair-loss routine.
PRP Therapy
Platelet-rich plasma is an in-clinic procedure using injections prepared from the patient's own blood and is often used as part of a wider treatment plan.
Nutrition & Lifestyle
Nutritional deficiencies, inadequate protein, poor sleep and significant physiological stress can affect hair health. Relevant deficiencies should be identified rather than guessed.
Hair Transplant
Surgical transplantation may be suitable for men with adequate donor hair and an appropriate pattern of loss. Results depend heavily on suitability and surgeon expertise.
Hair treatments don't work overnight.
Hair grows slowly. For many established approaches, it can take 3–6 months of consistent use before meaningful changes can be assessed. Stopping and starting treatments repeatedly can make progress much harder to judge.
Add HR23+® to your daily hair routine.
HR23+® is a comprehensive, non-medical hair supplement developed to support men experiencing thinning and excessive shedding, while helping maintain stronger, healthier-looking hair.
- 23 carefully selected ingredients
- Supports normal hair and follicle health
- Easy to incorporate into a long-term routine
- Can complement topical or non-medical hair-care routines
Not all hair loss is male pattern baldness.
If your hair loss is sudden, severe, patchy or accompanied by scalp symptoms, or you simply aren't sure what is causing it, speak to your GP, dermatologist or another suitably qualified healthcare professional. Identifying the cause is more important than simply trying more products.