Male pattern hair loss

Male pattern hair loss is the commonest type of hair loss in men. It usually begins after puberty and may progress slowly over years or decades. The classic pattern is recession at the temples and frontal hairline, followed by thinning at the crown or vertex. The sides and back of the scalp are typically less affected. Diagnosis is usually clinical: the doctor looks at the pattern, family history and whether the scalp skin itself looks normal. Treatment can slow progression and sometimes improve density, but ongoing treatment is usually needed to maintain results.