Why does it seem like men lose their hair more than women?
It’s something most people notice early on: receding hairlines, thinning at the crown, or visible hair loss that feels much more common in men. And because it’s so common, it’s often treated as something inevitable.
Hair loss is rarely just one thing and understanding what’s happening beneath the surface can make it feel a lot less unpredictable.
What Causes Hair Loss in Men?
The most common cause of hair loss in men is something called androgenetic alopecia, often referred to as male pattern hair loss.
In simple terms, it’s linked to how hair follicles respond to hormones, particularly DHT (dihydrotestosterone).
Over time, this sensitivity causes follicles to gradually shrink. This is why hair loss in men often follows a pattern:
- a receding hairline
- thinning at the crown
- gradual reduction in overall density
How DHT Actually Affects Hair Loss
DHT, short for dihydrotestosterone, is a hormone the body naturally produces from testosterone. It plays a role in things like male development and body hair, so it’s not something “bad” or unnecessary.
Some hair follicles, particularly around the temples and crown, are genetically more sensitive to DHT. Over time, this sensitivity changes how those follicles behave.
Here’s what tends to happen:
- hair begins to grow back finer than before
- the growth phase becomes shorter
- each new strand is slightly weaker and thinner
- eventually, the follicle produces very fine hair, or stops producing visible hair altogether
This process is called miniaturisation.
It’s Not Always “Just Genetics”
Hair loss can also be influenced by:
- stress
- nutritional imbalances
- scalp health
- inflammation
- general lifestyle factors
So while pattern hair loss has a genetic component, how it progresses, and how early it appears, can still be influenced by what’s happening internally and at scalp level.
Other Types of Hair Loss in Men
Men can also experience:
- Telogen effluvium — temporary shedding after stress, illness, or major life changes
- Alopecia areata — patchy hair loss linked to the immune system
- Diffuse thinning — overall reduction in density rather than a defined pattern
When Should You Pay Attention?
Because hair loss is so common in men, it’s often ignored, especially early on. But it can be worth looking a little closer if you notice:
- rapid or sudden shedding
- thinning that feels different from typical pattern loss
- patchy or uneven hair loss
- changes happening earlier than expected
Early changes are often easier to understand and respond to than later stages.
How Scalp Analysis Can Help
If you’re unsure what type of hair loss you’re experiencing, looking at the scalp more closely can make a big difference.
Scalp analysis allows specialists to assess:
- follicle activity
- hair thickness
- density
- signs of inflammation or imbalance
If you’re noticing changes in your hair and want a clearer understanding of what may be influencing it, a more detailed look at your body’s internal balance can be a helpful next step.
The Cell Wellbeing Test offers a personalized insight into nutritional imbalances, sensitivities, and areas your body may need additional support, helping to connect what you’re experiencing externally with what’s happening internally.
Available as an at-home kit or in-clinic assessment, it provides a tailored report designed to support more informed, individualized decisions around your hair and overall well-being.
You can learn more about the test by going to the Clinical Services page.