Hair fall in men, also known as male-pattern baldness or androgenetic alopecia, causes progressive loss of hair from the scalp. It often begins with thinning and a hairline that gradually recedes, and in many cases the lost hair does not grow back. Recognising the stage early gives the best chance of stabilising loss and regaining density.
The stages of male-pattern baldness
The condition is commonly described in seven stages:
- Stage 1: Little or no hair loss or hairline recession.
- Stage 2: Slight hair loss near the skin between the eyes and the temples.
- Stage 3: Deeper recession around the temples, with the hairline taking an M or U shape.
- Stage 4: Very deep hairline recession, along with hair loss at the crown.
- Stage 5: The receding hairline begins to connect with the bald spot on the crown.
- Stage 6: Hair between the temples and the crown thins until it has gone completely.
- Stage 7: No hair on the top of the head, with only a thin band remaining around the sides.
What are the treatment options for hair fall in men?
Depending on the severity of the condition and its underlying causes, the dermatologist may recommend one or more of the following options.
Minoxidil therapy
Minoxidil is a topical solution applied directly to the scalp, used primarily to slow ongoing hair loss. It works best when thinning is at an early or middle stage. The main challenge is consistency: changes do not appear quickly and require months of regular use.
Microneedling
Microneedling is a non-invasive procedure that uses a device to create micro-injuries in the scalp, improving penetration of applied growth factors into the follicular area and stimulating local repair activity. The dermatologist may combine it with growth-factor therapy for a better follicular response, and hair strength and density may improve over time.
Mesotherapy
Mesotherapy is a popular non-surgical option for hair fall and thinning, usually recommended once thinning has begun. Small injections are applied directly to the scalp where the hair needs support. These injections contain a blend of vitamins, hydration-supporting ingredients, and stimulants such as L-carnitine and caffeine.
Platelet-rich plasma therapy
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy may be used alone or combined with other procedures to slow hair fall in men. The dermatologist collects a sample of your platelet-rich plasma and injects it into areas of thinning or loss, where the platelets release growth factors that support follicle activity and repair. Depending on the stage of loss, you may need five to six sessions about a month apart for the desired result.
Hair transplant
When hair loss has reached an advanced stage, or when other treatments have not helped, the dermatologist may recommend a hair transplant. Healthy follicles are taken from donor areas and placed into the bald regions of the scalp, using either the FUT or FUE technique. This treatment should only be carried out by a certified, experienced practitioner.
Treatment led by a dermatologist
Earlier intervention generally means a better outcome, so it is worth seeking advice as soon as you notice thinning. At Derma Essence, treatment is led by Dr. Reena Sharma (MD Dermatology). For related concerns, see our hair fall treatment or premature greying pages.
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