This is the most common spot that men notice hair loss. Usually, you’ll start with a receding hairline that works its way backward over time. You might also notice that your hairline recedes into an “M” shape. This is a telltale sign of male pattern baldness.

Hair loss is gradual, and it can take a long time to notice that you are losing your hair. If you’re not sure, ask a friend or family member to look at your hair for you.

Hair analysis or a scalp biopsy are not needed to properly diagnose your hair loss, but they can help if you’re confused as to why you’re losing your hair.

For most people, it can take up to 6 months to see any changes, although you probably won’t see a full re-growth. Minoxidil works well for some people, but other people see little to no change. Be patient, and keep using it as directed to see if it works for you. This medication can cause scalp irritation and headaches.

Buying a wig can take a little bit of trial and error. If you’ve never done it before, consider going to an in-person wig shop where you can try them on before you buy.

Unfortunately, this pill has to be taken long-term. If you stop taking the pill, your hair loss will return. Potential side effects include loss of libido (desire to have sex), inability to get or keep an erection, swelling and tenderness in the chest, and depression. Since these side effects can be severe, be sure to discuss them with your doctor before starting medication.

Directly after the procedure, you may actually experience more thinning and hair loss, which is normal. Most patients see thicker, fuller hair in 6 to 12 months. Potential risks of hair transplants include scarring and infection. If you follow the at-home care instructions from your doctor, you can minimize those risks.

One study from 2001 suggests that young men whose fathers have male pattern baldness are more than 5 times more likely to experience hair loss than men whose fathers do not have this condition. [12] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source

Although male pattern baldness can begin in early adulthood (albeit rarely), it becomes much more common with age. Sudden hair loss in a teenager or young adult is usually related to some disease, medical treatment, or toxicity. About 25% of men who suffer with male pattern baldness begin the process before the age of 21 years. [14] X Research source

Keep in mind that hair loss caused by medication is technically not male pattern baldness. Male pattern baldness is genetic, while hair loss caused by medication can be treated by adjusting your dosages.

Steroids increase the amount of DHT in your body. Too much DHT can shrink the hair follicles on your head, making it hard for the hair to survive.

Hair loss caused by stress is also not male pattern baldness, and it can usually be treated by lifestyle changes.