Androgenetic
Alopecia
The most prevalent form of hair loss worldwide progressive, genetic, and highly treatable when diagnosed early through trichoscopy.
The Most Common
and Most Treatable
Androgenetic alopecia is driven by a combination of genetic predisposition and hormonal sensitivity specifically, the reaction of hair follicles to dihydrotestosterone (DHT). In genetically susceptible individuals, follicles in specific areas of the scalp progressively miniaturise, producing thinner and shorter hair with each cycle until they cease producing visible hair entirely.
The pattern differs by sex: in men, it typically begins with a receding hairline and thinning at the crown. In women, it usually presents as diffuse thinning across the top of the scalp with a noticeably wider parting line, while the frontal hairline is generally preserved.
"It will not resolve on its own but when identified early, the trajectory can be significantly altered. Treatment works best when follicles are miniaturising but still present."
Trichoscopy reveals miniaturisation long before it is visible to the naked eye making early diagnosis possible and treatment more effective.
What to Watch For
Androgenetic alopecia presents differently in men and women recognising the early signs is the first step toward effective intervention.
Thinning at the crown progressing forward the classic male presentation. Often begins as a small patch that gradually expands.
Diffuse thinning across the top of the scalp the typical female pattern. Overall density reduces rather than forming defined bald areas.
Widening of the natural parting line often the first noticeable sign in women. The parting appears broader as density behind it reduces.
Hair becoming progressively finer and shorter with each growth cycle the hallmark of miniaturisation at the follicular level.
Receding temples and hairline typically the earliest visible sign in men, often beginning in the late teens or early twenties.
Noticeable increase in hair shedding during washing or styling particularly when hair that was previously stable begins to fall.
How We Diagnose
Androgenetic Alopecia
High-Resolution Trichoscopy
Trichoscopy is an important non-invasive tool that can support the assessment of androgenetic alopecia alongside medical history and clinical examination. Trichoscopy may identify early signs of miniaturisation before changes become clearly visible, allowing earlier discussion of suitable management options.
- Follicular density mapping across scalp zones
- Hair shaft calibre measurement and variability assessment
- Staging using Norwood (men) or Ludwig (women) scale
Full Clinical Assessment & Blood Panel
A thorough medical history review covering hormonal history, medications, nutritional status, stress levels, and family history of hair loss. Where hormonal or nutritional factors are suspected, we refer for a targeted blood panel ensuring we address the full picture rather than treating symptoms in isolation.
- DHT, thyroid panel, ferritin, vitamin D when indicated
- Hormonal profile for female pattern hair loss
- Baseline photography for objective progress tracking
How We Treat
Androgenetic Alopecia
Some patients may benefit from a combined treatment plan, depending on their diagnosis, stage of hair loss, medical history and treatment preferences.
First Line
PRP contains autologous platelets and growth factors and may help support hair density or shaft thickness in some suitable patients with androgenetic alopecia.
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Advanced Cases
Clinical response varies, and exosome-based treatment remains an emerging treatment option rather than a guaranteed solution.
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Adjunct
Bioactive peptides and growth factors delivered into the perifollicular layer nourishing miniaturising follicles and complementing PRP or exosome protocols.
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Maintenance
Low-level laser therapy may support follicular activity and hair density in some patients with pattern hair loss. It does not remove the underlying genetic sensitivity to androgens.
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Advanced Loss
SMP provides an immediate cosmetic change after treatment completion. Pigment appearance typically fades gradually and may require future touch-up sessions.
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Maintenance
Low-level laser therapy may support follicular activity and hair density in some patients with pattern hair loss. It does not remove the underlying genetic sensitivity to androgens.
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What You Can
Realistically Expect
Treatment may help slow progression and support preservation of existing hair. Continuous management may be required, and progression cannot always be stopped.
- Some patients may notice reduced shedding after several months, but the timing and degree of response vary.
- Visible density improvement in areas of early miniaturisation
- Halting or significantly slowing further progression
- Results are most significant in early to moderate stages acting before follicles are permanently lost is the single most important factor
Diagnosed early,
treated effectively.
The most important thing you can do if you suspect androgenetic alopecia is to get a clinical assessment not to wait and see.
