Androgenetic Alopecia
Pattern Hair LossAlso known as male/female pattern baldness — the most common type of hair loss
Written by
Dr. Jane Smith, MD
Board Certified Dermatologist
Last updated: January 20, 2026
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Overview
Androgenetic alopecia is a genetic condition that causes progressive hair thinning and loss. It's the most common cause of hair loss in both men and women, affecting approximately 50% of men by age 50 and 40% of women by age 70.
In men, it typically presents as a receding hairline and thinning at the crown (often called "male pattern baldness"). In women, it usually causes diffuse thinning over the top of the scalp while maintaining the frontal hairline.
Key Facts
- • Most common type of hair loss
- • Genetic and hormonal causes
- • Progressive but treatable
- • Affects both men and women differently
Symptoms & Patterns
In Men
- • Receding hairline (M-shaped pattern)
- • Thinning at the crown/vertex
- • Gradual progression over years
- • May lead to near-complete baldness
- • Usually starts in 20s-30s
In Women
- • Widening part line
- • Diffuse thinning on top of scalp
- • Frontal hairline usually maintained
- • Complete baldness is rare
- • Often becomes noticeable after menopause
Causes
Androgenetic alopecia is caused by a combination of genetics and hormones:
- Genetics: Inherited from either parent. If you have close relatives with pattern hair loss, you're more likely to develop it.
- DHT (Dihydrotestosterone): A hormone derived from testosterone that causes hair follicles to shrink (miniaturize) over time.
- Follicle Sensitivity: Genetically determined sensitivity of hair follicles to DHT. Some follicles are more susceptible than others.
- Age: Prevalence increases with age, though it can start as early as the late teens or early 20s.
Diagnosis
A dermatologist can usually diagnose androgenetic alopecia through:
- Clinical examination: Pattern and distribution of hair loss
- Medical history: Family history, timeline, symptoms
- Pull test: Gently pulling hair to assess shedding
- Scalp examination: May use dermoscopy to examine follicles
- Blood tests: To rule out other causes (thyroid, iron, hormones)
It's important to see a doctor to confirm the diagnosis, as other conditions can cause similar symptoms.
Treatment Options
Several evidence-based treatments can slow progression and stimulate regrowth:
Minoxidil (Rogaine)
Topical solution applied twice daily. Available over-the-counter.
Learn more →Finasteride (Propecia)
Prescription pill for men that blocks DHT. Not recommended for women.
Learn more →Hair Transplant (FUE/FUT)
SurgicalPermanent solution by relocating hair follicles from donor area.
Learn more →Low-Level Laser Therapy
Light therapy devices used at home. Limited but positive evidence.
Prognosis & What to Expect
Progressive condition: Without treatment, androgenetic alopecia typically worsens over time, though the rate varies greatly.
Treatment response: Early intervention tends to be most effective. Treatments can slow or halt progression, and many people see some regrowth.
Ongoing management: Treatments must be continued indefinitely to maintain results. Stopping treatment typically results in gradual return to baseline.
Realistic expectations: Most treatments maintain existing hair and provide modest regrowth. Complete restoration to a teenage hairline is not realistic with medications alone.
Related Articles
Minoxidil (Rogaine)
Grade A treatment, first-line option for pattern hair loss.
Finasteride (Propecia)
Grade A prescription treatment for men with pattern baldness.