It’s a question many men around the world have quietly asked themselves: “Am I balding?”. You might catch a glimpse of your reflection and notice something’s a little different, or perhaps you’ve heard friends mention their own experiences. The truth is, recognising the first signs of hair thinning early is key to taking early action and finding an effective solution for your balding hair.

What Causes Balding in Men?

The most common cause of balding in men is a hereditary condition known as androgenetic alopecia, or male pattern baldness. It is primarily driven by genetics and the hormone dihydrotestosterone (DHT). If you have a family history of hair loss, your hair follicles may be genetically sensitive to DHT, causing them to shrink over time and resulting in the characteristic thinning and balding patterns even as early as your 20’s.

However, the journey to balding doesn’t happen overnight. It’s a gradual process that often begins with subtle changes that can be easy to miss. Here are 7 common signs to look out for:

1. Receding Hairline

A receding hairline typically begins at the temples and gradually moves backwards, creating a distinctive “M” shape. Your forehead may look slightly larger or certain hairstyles no longer frame your face the way they used to.

2. Thinning Crown

This can appear as a circular, thinning patch that gradually gets larger over time. It can be hard to spot on your own, so a good way to check is to take a picture of the top of your head every few months or ask a friend.

3. Increased Hair Shedding

While it’s normal to lose between 50-100 hairs a day, a significant increase in this number could be a key indicator that something is not quite right with your hair growth cycle.

4. Change in Hair Texture

As hair follicles shrink, the hair they produce can become finer, weaker, and less dense. Your hair might feel less full to the touch or look thinner in photographs, especially under bright lighting.

5. Slower Hair Growth

The hair growth cycle has a growth, resting, and shedding phase. In male pattern balding, the growth phase shortens, leading to shorter, finer hairs and a feeling that your hair isn’t growing back at its normal rate.

6. Widening Parting

If you part your hair on the side, you might notice the line becoming noticeably wider over time. You may also start to see your scalp more visibly through your hair, especially when your hair is dry.

7. Patches of Thin or Missing Hair

Male pattern baldness often follows a predictable pattern. The appearance of small, distinct bald spots or patches could signal hair loss from a different condition such as alopecia areata. It’s essential to consult a specialist for a proper diagnosis, which may require different treatment approaches than male pattern baldness.

Addressing Early Hair Loss in Men: Taking Action

If you’re noticing these signs of balding, the good news is that you have options. Taking action early is crucial for the best possible results and to minimise the need for more drastic treatments, like hair transplants, in the future. Some general approaches to increasing your hair density include:

• Medications: Topical products like Minoxidil or oral medications like Finasteride can help slow down hair loss and promote regrowth.
• Topical Products: Many specialised shampoos and serums are designed to support scalp health and create a better environment for hair growth. These commonly contain Minoxidil, rosemary oil, or caffeine as active ingredients.
• Professional Treatments: Non-surgical hair growth treatments in Singapore like V Magic Hair Grow can stimulate hair follicles, encouraging more robust hair growth.

Don’t let the question, “Am I balding?”, cause you unnecessary stress. By recognising the signs of hair loss and taking proactive steps, you can address the issue early and regain your confidence. Our team is here to guide you and create a personalised male hair loss treatment plan in Singapore to tackle your hair concerns.

Reach out to us today.