Hair Loss

Male pattern hair loss (Androgenic Alopecia) is the most common form of hair loss in men. It affects the front, mid-section and the crown area of the scalp (unstable area) Hair loss occurs due to the presence of hormone receptors in the hair follicles in this area.
These receptors are stimulated by the male hormone dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which triggers the hair loss process. There are no such receptors in the so-called Fixed Area, on the back and sides of the head, hence hair in these areas grows throughout life.
This genetic process is inherited and determined by one or both parents.

Type I: Adolescent or juvenile hairline. This hairline usually rests just above the upper forehead crease.  This pattern doesn’t represent balding.

Type II: This type shows progression to the adult hairline. It usually sits about 1.5cm above the upper forehead crease. Some temporal recession may also be seen.   This pattern doesn’t represent balding.

Type III: The earliest stage of male pattern balding. This pattern warrants investigating, and is charactarized by deepening temporal recessions.

Type III vertex: Represents early hair loss at the crown (Vertex) area, with or without the temples.

Type IV: Further frontal hair loss and enlargement of the vertex. Nevertheless, a solid band of hair across the top (Mid-scalp) would still exist, separating the front from the vertex.

Type V: The bald area in the front and in the crown (vertex) continues to enlarge. The bridge of hair separating the two areas (mid-scalp) begins to break down.

Type VI: The connecting bridge of hair at the mid-scalp disappears completely. This leaves a single large bald area on the front and top of the scalp. The hair on the sides and back remains relatively high. (Permanent area)

Type VII:  Extensive hair loss. The hair on the sides and back of the scalp  (permanent area) is a thinner band. (Lower in height than type VI above).