Male Pattern Baldness Stages Explained (And What You Can Do at Each Stage)

Male Pattern Baldness is the most common form of hair loss in men, affecting up to 50% of men by the age of 50. It follows a predictable pattern that progresses over time, often starting with a receding hairline or thinning at the crown. The good news? With the right treatments and scalp care, the effects can be slowed, managed, or camouflaged—restoring confidence at every stage.

In this complete guide, we’ll explain the stages of Male Pattern Baldness, what happens at each stage, and what you can realistically do to manage or reverse the process.

What Is Male Pattern Baldness?

Male Pattern Baldness (also known as androgenetic alopecia) is a hereditary condition influenced by genetics and hormones, specifically dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT shrinks hair follicles, leading to shorter growth cycles, thinner hair, and eventually, follicle inactivity.

Key characteristics:

• Predictable progression following the Norwood-Hamilton scale.

• Begins with either temple recession or crown thinning.

• Permanent without treatment, but progression can be slowed or masked.

Stages of Male Pattern Baldness (Norwood-Hamilton Scale)

Dermatologists use the Norwood-Hamilton scale to classify the stages of Male Pattern Baldness.

Table: Norwood-Hamilton Scale

Male Pattern Baldness Stage 1: Prevention Is Key

At Stage 1, there is little or no visible hair loss. However, scalp changes may already be underway.

What to do:

• Use scalp-friendly shampoos that reduce DHT activity.

• Begin preventive treatments such as exosome-based or plasma scalp therapies.

• Maintain a balanced diet rich in protein, iron, and omega-3s.

Learn more about early interventions like the Plasma Scalp Boost Hair Loss Treatment, which uses regenerative science to strengthen follicles.

Male Pattern Baldness Stage 2: Receding Hairline

At Stage 2, the hairline starts to recede slightly, usually forming a subtle “M” shape.

Treatment strategies:

• Start with FDA-approved topical or oral treatments.

• Incorporate medical-grade scalp serums to slow miniaturization.

• Consider low-level light therapy or plasma boosts to enhance follicle activity.

Male Pattern Baldness Stage 3: Noticeable Hair Loss

By Stage 3, temple recession deepens, and bald spots may appear on the crown. This is the earliest stage where hair loss is considered clinically significant.

Treatment strategies:

• Prescription medications can help maintain existing hair.

• Plasma Scalp Boost and exosome therapies improve density and scalp health.

• Early scalp micropigmentation (SMP) can create the illusion of fuller coverage.

Male Pattern Baldness Stage 4: Crown Thinning

At this stage, the crown begins thinning significantly, and the hairline recession becomes more pronounced.

Treatment strategies:

• Combination approach (medication + regenerative scalp therapy).

• Consider surgical options like follicular unit extraction (FUE) if suitable.

• SMP is effective for camouflaging visible crown gaps.

Male Pattern Baldness Stage 5: Joining of Bald Spots

By Stage 5, the hairline recession and crown bald spot often connect. Density across the scalp is significantly reduced.

Treatment strategies:

• Advanced scalp treatments may slow progression but cannot fully restore density.

• SMP becomes a practical choice for a natural illusion of fuller hair.

• Hair transplants may be considered, though donor hair supply can be limited.

Male Pattern Baldness Stage 6: Widespread Loss

Stage 6 represents extensive loss on top of the scalp, with thinning continuing on the sides.

Treatment strategies:

• SMP for immediate cosmetic coverage.

• Hair systems or wigs for those seeking fuller head appearance.

• Regenerative scalp care may improve scalp health, though follicle restoration is minimal.

Male Pattern Baldness Stage 7: Advanced Baldness

At Stage 7, only a thin rim of hair remains on the back and sides of the head.

Treatment strategies:

• SMP remains the most effective non-surgical option.

• Hair systems or advanced camouflage treatments can restore appearance.

• Surgical options are rarely suitable at this stage.

Male Pattern Baldness Treatment Options

Table: Treatment Approaches by Stage

Myths vs Facts About Male Pattern Baldness

When to See a Specialist

If you notice thinning, consult a dermatologist or hair restoration clinic early. Early intervention gives the best chance to preserve existing hair.

For advanced, drug-free solutions, visit Anagen Scalp’s Plasma Scalp Boost Treatment — a regenerative approach tailored to combat Male Pattern Baldness.

For more in-depth information, the American Academy of Dermatology’s guide on hair loss is an excellent external resource.

Final Thoughts

Male Pattern Baldness follows a predictable pattern but doesn’t have to dictate your confidence. With today’s range of treatments—medications, regenerative scalp therapies, SMP, and transplants—you have options at every stage.

Whether you’re just starting to see signs of thinning or are already experiencing advanced loss, understanding the stages of Male Pattern Baldness allows you to act strategically, preserving hair where possible and camouflaging where needed.

Take control early, explore modern treatments, and remember—confidence is never just about hair.