medical tick Medically reviewed by
Doctor img

Dr. Akshay Batra
26+ years of experience Leading Trichologist, Dermatologist & Homeopath

See qualifications

Stages of Male Pattern Baldness: Understanding the Phases

Male pattern baldness is a progressive hair loss condition that starts with thinning hair and eventually leads to bald areas on the scalp. It affects 46% of Indian men between the ages of 31-41, and understanding the different stages of baldness can help in taking early preventive action.

In this blog, we’ll explore: The 7 stages of male pattern baldness

  • What causes male pattern baldness
  • How homeopathy can help in treating hair loss at different stages
  • FAQs related to male balding and prevention

7 Stages of Male Pattern Baldness

The Hamilton-Norwood Scale is used to classify male pattern baldness into 7 stages. It helps track the progression of hair loss and determine appropriate treatments.

Stage 1: Early Hairline Recession

  • Slight thinning around the temples.
  • Minimal visible hair loss but could be a precursor to further balding.
  • If baldness runs in your family, monitor hair closely.

Stage 2: M-Shaped Hairline

  • Receding hairline moves inward, forming an M-shape.
  • Hair on the forehead and temples begins to thin noticeably.
  • Common among men in their 30s or older.

Stage 3: Visible Baldness Begins

  • This stage has a subcategory known as Stage 3 Vertex.
  • Hairline recession progresses significantly.
  • Thinning at the crown (vertex) may begin.
  • At this stage, hair loss is clearly noticeable.

Stage 4: Patchy Hair Loss at the Crown

  • Bald patches form on the crown while the M-shaped hairline deepens.
  • Uneven bands of hair remain, separating temples from the vortex.
  • Treatment at this stage can help slow hair loss and promote regrowth.

Stage 5: Horseshoe-Shaped Hairline

  • The band of hair between the crown and temples starts thinning.
  • The scalp appears more visible, with bald areas becoming larger.
  • The classic horseshoe-shaped hair pattern begins to form.

Stage 6: Advanced Hair Loss

  • Hair loss at the crown and temples merge, creating a larger bald spot.
  • Side hairs also begin thinning, making the scalp more exposed.
  • Hair transplant and advanced hair treatments may be needed.

Stage 7: Full Baldness

  • The entire crown is bald, leaving only a thin layer of hair at the back and sides.
  • Hair at the nape of the neck is fine and thin.
  • At this stage, hair regrowth is minimal, but maintenance treatments can help preserve existing hair.

Now that you understand the stages of baldness, let’s look at what causes it and how to treat it effectively.

What Causes Male Pattern Baldness?

Male pattern baldness, also known as androgenetic alopecia, is influenced by multiple factors:

  • Genetics: A hereditary condition passed down through family generations.
  • Hormonal Changes: An increase in DHT (dihydrotestosterone) shrinks hair follicles, leading to hair thinning.
  • Age: Hair growth slows down with age, contributing to baldness.
  • Stress: Chronic stress causes scalp tension and disrupts healthy hair growth.
  • Health Conditions: Conditions like thyroid disorders, scalp infections, and anemia can trigger hair loss.

Dr Batra’s® pro tip:

Begin treatment at the earliest stage of male pattern baldness to effectively slow progression and enhance hair regrowth.

Real Results of Hair Growth

Want an effective solution for male pattern baldness? Book an appointment with Dr Batra’s® today!

Homeopathy for Male Pattern Baldness

Homeopathy provides a safe, long-term solution for male pattern baldness without side effects. It helps control hair loss, promote regrowth, and strengthen hair follicles.

  • Targets the Root Cause: Homeopathy treats the underlying imbalances that trigger hair loss.
  • Strengthens Hair Naturally: Remedies like Thuja Orientalis and Sabal Serrulata stimulate hair follicles.
  • No Side Effects: Unlike conventional treatments, homeopathy offers natural, holistic treatment.

At Dr Batra’s®, our expert homeopaths assess your condition thoroughly to provide a personalised baldness treatment plan.

Why Choose Dr Batra’s® for Male Pattern Baldness Treatment?

  • 94% satisfaction rate
  • Personalised treatments designed for your specific hair loss stage.
  • Expert trichologists and homeopaths who diagnose and treat baldness effectively.
  • Focus on underlying conditions like thyroid disorders or anemia that contribute to hair loss.

Want to restore your hair naturally? Book a consultation with Dr Batra’s® for expert hair loss solutions today!

Conclusion

  • Understanding the stages of baldness helps in choosing the right treatment early.
  • Homeopathy provides a safe, effective way to slow hair loss and stimulate regrowth.
  • Dr Batra’s® offers personalised treatment for all baldness stages.

FAQs

Is stage 3 baldness curable?

Yes! Early-stage baldness (Stage 3 or below) can be treated with homeopathy, lifestyle changes, and hair regrowth therapies.

How long does it take for male pattern baldness to progress?

Hair loss progression varies but can take years or decades. Some men experience rapid hair thinning, while others lose hair gradually over time.

What is Stage 5 of balding?

Stage 5 baldness is when hair loss at the temples and crown merge, forming a horseshoe-shaped hairline.

What is Stage 4 pattern baldness?

Stage 4 involves visible thinning at the crown and a deepening M-shaped hairline, with separated bald patches.

What causes male pattern baldness?

The main cause is genetics, combined with DHT sensitivity, age, and hormonal changes.

How can I prevent male pattern baldness?

Early intervention – Start treatment at Stage 1 or 2. You can prevent male pattern baldness as fast as you can. Healthy lifestyle – Reduce stress, improve diet, and use gentle hair care products. Homeopathy & scalp treatments – Prevent further hair thinning naturally.

When does male pattern baldness start?

Baldness can begin as early as late teens or early 20s, depending on genetics and lifestyle factors.

When does male pattern balding stop?

Hair loss stabilises at Stage 7, where only the sides and back of the head retain hair.

How is male pattern baldness diagnosed?

A doctor evaluates your hair loss pattern, family history, and scalp condition to diagnose baldness.