Is Mens Hair Loss Genetic – Can it be avoided?

The most common type of hair loss in men, medically known as androgenetic alopecia or male pattern baldness, is responsible for 95% of hair loss in men

This type of hair loss can be defined as excessive hair shedding as a result of hormonal and genetic factors.

Is hair loss genetic?

Not all hair loss is genetic. But androgenetic alopecia, or male pattern baldness, is. It’s all in the name. Andro means “man” or “human” while genetic means, well, genetic. 

It happens when men inherit a sensitivity to a testosterone by-product called dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which causes the hair follicles to shrink and eventually stop producing hair. 

Find out more about what can cause men’s hair loss.

What does male pattern baldness look like?

With male pattern baldness, hair loss typically follows a predictable pattern. The two most common patterns of hair loss include the following:

  • Hair starts to thin on top of the head and around the temples. This pattern may eventually leave a “horseshoe” of hair around the sides and back of the head.
  • Hair starts to recede from the front of the hairline, pushing the hairline further back on the head.

Have more questions about men’s hair loss?

What causes hair loss?
When do guys start losing their hair and how fast does it happen?
Can hair loss be reversed?
Can you make your hair grow faster?
How much hair loss is normal?