
What Causes Male Pattern Baldness? Understanding DHT and Hair Loss
A simple guide to why male pattern hair loss happens, what causes it, and what treatments can help slow or reverse the process. Contents What is male pattern baldness? Why
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Male pattern hair loss, also known as androgenetic alopecia, is the most common cause of hair loss in men. It typically presents as thinning at the temples or crown and progresses gradually over time.
The condition is driven by sensitivity to a hormone called dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which causes hair follicles to shrink. Treatments focus on reducing the effect of DHT and stimulating hair follicles to support ongoing growth.
Finasteride works by reducing DHT levels, helping slow or stop further hair loss. Minoxidil works differently, by increasing blood flow to the scalp and encouraging hair follicles to remain in the growth phase for longer. Used together, they target hair loss from two complementary angles.
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This hair loss treatment service is designed for men aged 18 years and over experiencing male pattern hair loss. It may be particularly suitable if you have noticed a receding hairline, thinning at the crown, or gradual hair thinning and are looking for clinically proven treatment options such as Finasteride or Minoxidil.
Male pattern hair loss is primarily caused by a combination of genetics and sensitivity to a hormone called dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT can gradually shrink hair follicles, causing hairs to become finer, shorter, and less visible over time. This process typically affects the hairline, temples, and crown first, leading to a receding hairline or thinning on the top of the scalp. While male pattern hair loss is very common, starting treatment early can help slow progression and preserve existing hair.
You’ll complete a confidential online assessment covering your hair loss pattern, medical history, current medications, family history of hair loss, and any previous treatments you have used. A clinician will review this information to determine whether treatment is suitable and recommend the most appropriate option.
Finasteride is a prescription hair loss medication that works by reducing levels of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), the hormone responsible for shrinking hair follicles in male pattern hair loss. By lowering DHT levels, Finasteride can help slow hair loss and may promote hair regrowth in some men. Finasteride can help slow or stop further hair loss across the scalp, including the hairline area. Results vary between individuals, but treatment is generally most effective when started early before significant follicle loss has occurred.
Minoxidil is a topical hair loss treatment applied directly to the scalp. It works by increasing blood flow around hair follicles and extending the hair growth phase, helping to support thicker, stronger hair growth over time.
Both forms contain the same active ingredient and can be effective for treating male pattern hair loss. Many people prefer Minoxidil foam because it dries more quickly, is easier to apply, and may cause less scalp irritation than liquid formulations.
Yes. Finasteride and Minoxidil work through different mechanisms and are commonly used together. Combining treatments may provide greater benefit than using either treatment alone for some patients.
Most men begin to notice reduced hair shedding within 3 to 6 months of starting Finasteride. Visible improvements in hair density may take 6 to 12 months, with continued benefits often seen beyond the first year.
Some patients notice increased shedding during the first few weeks of treatment, particularly with Minoxidil. This is often temporary and can occur as older hairs are shed to make way for new growth.
If treatment is stopped, the underlying process that causes male pattern hair loss will gradually continue, and any improvements achieved during treatment may reduce over time. Many patients choose to continue treatment long term to help maintain their results and preserve existing hair. Our team can provide ongoing support and advice to help you get the most from your treatment and make informed decisions about your hair loss management.

A simple guide to why male pattern hair loss happens, what causes it, and what treatments can help slow or reverse the process. Contents What is male pattern baldness? Why

A simple guide to the two most common treatments for male pattern hair loss, how they work, their differences, and which option may be right for you. Contents Understanding male

A simple guide to the two most common treatments for male pattern hair loss, how they work, their differences, and which option may be right for you. Contents Understanding male

A simple guide to the two most common treatments for male pattern hair loss, how they work, their differences, and which option may be right for you. Contents Understanding male