But did you know that there are early signs of male hair loss that can give you a heads-up long before things get more noticeable? Catching these signs early can make all the difference in managing thinning hair and taking action before it gets worse.
We’ll walk you through 5 early warning signs of male hair loss and show you how to tackle them head-on. If you spot any of these signs in your own hair, it might just be time to take the next step toward keeping your hair thick and healthy.
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1. Increased Hair Shedding
While it’s normal to lose around 50 to 100 hairs per day, excessive hair shedding can be a red flag. If you notice more hair than usual on your pillow, in the shower drain, or on your hairbrush, you may be experiencing telogen effluvium or early-stage male pattern baldness. Running your fingers through your hair and noticing strands easily coming out is another sign of increased shedding.
Possible Causes
- Telogen Effluvium – Temporary hair shedding triggered by stress, illness, or poor nutrition.
- Androgenetic Alopecia – A hereditary condition leading to gradual hair thinning.
- Poor Scalp Health – Dandruff, inflammation, or buildup affecting hair growth.
What You Can Doing
- Track hair shedding for a few weeks. Take pictures for reference.
- Use a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo to prevent breakage.
- Consider seeing a dermatologist for a hair and scalp analysis.
2. A Receding Hairline
One of the first signs of male pattern baldness is a receding hairline. You may notice that your hairline is slowly creeping backwards, particularly around the temples. This type of hair loss, known as a widow’s peak, is a common early indicator of androgenetic alopecia, the most common form of male hair loss. Comparing old photographs to your current hairline can help you determine if you’re experiencing a recession.
Warning Signs
- Hairline appears less defined than before.
- More scalp visibility at the temples.
- Difficulty styling hair the way you used to.
What You Can Do
- Compare old and recent photos of your hairline.
- Start treatments like minoxidil (Rogaine) or finasteride (Propecia) early.
- Maintain a healthy scalp with essential oils like rosemary or peppermint oil.
3. Thinning at the Crown
Another major early sign is thinning at the crown of the head. You might not notice this change immediately since it’s at the top of your head, but others might. If you start seeing more scalp through your hair or feel that your hair is losing volume in that area, it’s time to pay attention. Crown thinning can gradually worsen over time and, if left untreated, may lead to a bald spot.
How to Check
- Use a hand mirror or take a photo from above every few months.
- Ask your barber or a friend if they’ve noticed thinning.
What You Can Do
- Consider low-level laser therapy (LLLT) to stimulate hair growth.
- Try DHT-blocking shampoos to slow down hair thinning.
- Eat a protein-rich diet with eggs, nuts, and leafy greens for hair health.
4. Changes in Hair Texture and Volume
If your hair feels finer, weaker, or lacks its usual volume, it could be a sign of early hair loss. Many men notice that their once thick and strong hair is becoming soft and fragile, which is a result of hair follicles producing thinner strands. This can happen gradually and may be overlooked until the overall density has visibly reduced.
Common Signs
- Hair feels limp, dry, or brittle.
- More scalp visibility when parting your hair.
- The hair looks flat and lacks volume.
What You Can Do
- Avoid overwashing hair, as it can strip natural oils.
- Switch to a volumising shampoo with biotin and keratin.
- Use a boar bristle brush to stimulate scalp circulation.
5. An Itchy or Irritated Scalp
While hair loss itself isn’t painful, a dry, flaky, or itchy scalp can be a warning sign.
Possible Causes
- Seborrheic Dermatitis – A common scalp condition causing inflammation.
- Scalp Psoriasis – Leads to flaking and hair loss if untreated.
- Poor Blood Circulation – Can weaken hair follicles over time.
What You Can Do
- Try a zinc-based anti-dandruff shampoo.
- Massage your scalp daily with coconut or castor oil.
- Stay hydrated and maintain a balanced diet for scalp health.
What to Do If You Notice These Signs
If you’re experiencing early signs of hair loss, taking action sooner rather than later is key. Here’s a game plan:
- Consult a Hair Loss Specialist – Early diagnosis can prevent further loss.
- Improve Your Diet – Eat more biotin-rich foods like avocados, nuts, and eggs.
- Use FDA-Approved Treatments – Options like minoxidil, finasteride, and PRP therapy can help.
- Manage Stress – High cortisol levels contribute to hair loss. Try meditation and exercise.
- Upgrade Your Hair Care Routine – Use gentle, nourishing hair products.
Final Thoughts
Recognising early signs of hair loss gives you the opportunity to take control before it worsens. Whether it’s excessive shedding, a receding hairline, or changes in hair texture, being proactive can help preserve your hair longer.
