Male Pattern Thinning – what it is and available treatments

What is Male Pattern Hair Loss?

Male pattern hair loss, also termed androgenic alopecia, is the most common type of hair loss in men. It usually develops over time after puberty, with initial recession commencing at the temples – sometimes with a receding hairline – followed by thinning in the crown of the scalp.

Why it happens:

In men who are genetically prone to hair loss, hair follicles across the top of the head are sensitive to a hormone called DHT. Over time, DHT can shrink these follicles and the hair shafts become finer, shorter, lighter in colour, and less dense.

Androgenic hair loss is often most active from the late teens to the early 30s, when male hormone levels are usually highest. However, the speed and pattern of hair loss vary from person to person.

Before starting treatment:

Not all hair loss in men is genetic. A proper assessment should consider diet, lifestyle, medical history, medications, stress, recent illness or surgery, and possible nutritional deficiencies.

Blood tests are often useful before treatment begins, especially if shedding is sudden, severe, patchy, or does not follow the usual male-pattern shape.

Treatment options:

1. ·   Topical minoxidil: Applied to the scalp to help stimulate growth and slow thinning. Some people find earlier formulas greasy or irritating.
2. Finasteride/Dutasteride: Prescription medicines that reduce DHT activity. They can help stabilise male pattern hair loss but should be discussed with your prescribing practitioner as side effects may occur in some men.
3. Oral minoxidil: Prescribed by medicos as an ‘off-label’ adjunct treatment. I do not subscribe to this treatment as outlined in my article: Oral Minoxidil Risks — What Your Doctor May Not Know 
4. Non-drug (hair nutrient) topical options: Products such as rhodanide-based sprays or other scalp-support treatments are a valuable alternative for early scalp hair thinning or for children or when standard treatments are unsuitable or not tolerated.
5. Low-level laser light:  a clean, non-invasive therapy to aid in supporting follicle hair growth as part of a broader treatment plan. The quality of the appliance and professional guidance in its use are crucial.
6. PRP treatment: Platelet-rich plasma injections may help some people, but results (and costs) vary, and is best seen as an add-on treatment, not a replacement for proven medical remedy.
7. Hair transplantation: Can improve appearance in suitable candidates, but existing hair may still need ongoing treatment to slow further loss.

Important considerations:

• Do not combine oral and topical minoxidil unless specifically advised by a medical practitioner, as this may increase cardiovascular risk.
• Prescription oral hair loss medicines may cause side effects in some people, including libido, mood-related, or other symptoms. Seek medical advice if these occur.
• Zinc supplementation can be very beneficial in early androgenic thinning but should be monitored by the treating practitioner (1).
• Be cautious with so-called ‘miracle cure’ treatments increasingly promoted by online influencers … the causes for scalp hair thinning are so many and varied that no one treatment will ever solve the concerns for all.

When contemplating seeing any hair loss treatment clinic, enquire as to the consultant’s qualifications, experience, as well as the total and ongoing costs of what they’re offering. 

Other possible causes of hair loss:

Hair loss can also be the result of autoimmune disease, illness, surgery, significant blood loss, certain medications, anabolic steroids, severe or prolonged stress, poor diet, gut absorption problems, or nutritional deficiencies.

Key takeaway:

Androgenic thinning is the most common hair loss condition in males and usually quite manageable – especially when treated early.

Optimal outcomes begin with confirming what the condition is, correcting or managing any underlying deficiency or disturbance, and being guided with a treatment plan that is safe, realistic, and tailored to the individual.

1. Prolonged high dosages of Zinc can antagonise the absorption of copper and iron.

Copyright Anthony Pearce (article revised 2026)