What Are the Signs of Hair Loss?
“Will I lose all my hair?” is a common question among guys experiencing the symptoms of male pattern baldness.
Male pattern baldness is a marathon, not a sprint—and the good news is that if you recognize its signs early, you can beat it to the finish line. Here are three easy ways to identify hair loss and treat it fast, so you can move on with your life.
1. Your hairline’s changing
Male pattern baldness (MPB) often begins at the hairline. In men, hair will usually start to recede in a characteristic “M” shape, beginning at the forehead and around the temples. Hair can also thin progressively at the crown, near the top of the head.
How to spot a changing hairline
Because it can be difficult to spot a gradual change in the hairline, we recommend a side-by-side photo comparison. The photos should have been taken in similar lighting a few years apart. If you notice that your hairline has receded in the recent photo, you’re probably experiencing hair loss.
2. Your hair’s getting thinner
The hairline isn’t always the first place that MPB sets in. For some people, hair begins to thin either across the entire scalp or in specific areas. This can occur anywhere on the head, but the crown is one of the most usual suspects.
How to spot thinning hair
It can be difficult to spot this gradual change, so you should also try the side-by-side photo trick we mentioned above. You can even begin taking photos every other month in your mirror, showing the crown of your head.
3. You’re losing lots of hair after showering or brushing
It’s super normal to shed some strands after you bathe or brush your hair; in fact, the average person loses about 100 hairs a day. That said, an unusual amount of hair loss is cause for concern.
How to spot abnormal hair loss
Start by contacting your doctor who can help identify the root cause of the hair loss. Then, determine if longer-term action is warranted.
Are you experiencing any of the signs above? If your answer’s yes, you may be a victim of male pattern baldness. The good news is that this is a gradual process—and the earlier you take action, the more hair you can keep. Find out how Keeps can help make that happen.
P.S. If you’re curious about other types of hair loss, check out our guide to the different types of alopecia.
The information provided in this article is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. You should not rely upon the content provided in this article for specific medical advice. If you have any questions or concerns, please talk to your doctor.