Androgenetic alopecia, commonly known as pattern hair loss, is the most common cause of hair loss in both men and women. It occurs due to a combination of genetic predisposition and sensitivity to hormones called androgens, particularly dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which causes hair follicles to gradually shrink over time.
As affected follicles become smaller, they produce thinner, shorter hairs until hair growth eventually becomes significantly reduced. Androgenetic alopecia can affect the scalp in different patterns depending on sex, genetics, and age. While it is not medically dangerous, hair loss can have a significant impact on confidence, self-image, and quality of life.
Causes and Symptoms of Androgenetic Alopecia
Androgenetic alopecia develops when genetically susceptible hair follicles become sensitive to DHT. This sensitivity causes a process called follicular miniaturization, where healthy terminal hairs gradually become finer, shorter, and less visible.
Common risk factors include:
- Family history of hair loss
- Increasing age
- Hormonal changes
- Genetic sensitivity to androgens
- Certain medical conditions or medications that may contribute to shedding
Common symptoms include:
Male Pattern Hair Loss
- Receding hairline, often beginning at the temples
- Thinning at the crown or vertex of the scalp
- Gradual progression over time
- Development of a more visible scalp in affected areas
Female Pattern Hair Loss
- Widening of the central part line
- Diffuse thinning throughout the top of the scalp
- Reduced hair density while the frontal hairline is often preserved
- Increased visibility of the scalp
Additional symptoms may include:
- Increased hair shedding
- Thinner ponytail circumference
- Slower hair growth
- Shorter, finer hairs replacing previously thicker hairs
Treatment Options for Androgenetic Alopecia
Treatment focuses on slowing hair loss, preserving existing follicles, and stimulating thicker hair growth. Early intervention often provides the best opportunity for maintaining hair density.
Options may include:
- Topical minoxidil, an FDA-approved medication that helps stimulate hair growth and prolong the growth phase of the hair cycle
- Oral minoxidil, a low-dose prescription option that may be considered for select patients under medical supervision
- Finasteride, an oral medication that reduces conversion of testosterone to DHT and is FDA-approved for male pattern hair loss
- Dutasteride, a medication that blocks multiple pathways of DHT production and may be considered in select patients
- Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy, which uses concentrated growth factors from the patient’s own blood to support hair follicle activity
- Low-level light therapy, which may help stimulate hair growth in some patients
- Hair transplantation, a surgical option that relocates healthy hair follicles to areas of thinning
Treatment recommendations depend on the pattern and severity of hair loss, age, medical history, and individual goals.
Diagnosis and Evaluation of Hair Loss
Because many conditions can cause hair thinning, a thorough evaluation is important before starting treatment. Your dermatology provider may perform:
- Detailed medical and family history review
- Scalp and hair examination
- Dermoscopy or magnified scalp evaluation
- Hair pull testing when appropriate
- Laboratory testing to evaluate contributing factors such as nutritional deficiencies or hormonal concerns
- Scalp biopsy in select cases where the diagnosis is unclear
Identifying the correct cause of hair loss helps ensure the most effective treatment plan.
Clear Choice Dermatology Can Help
Clear Choice Dermatology provides expert evaluation and treatment for androgenetic alopecia and other causes of hair loss. Our dermatology providers perform a comprehensive assessment to determine the underlying cause of thinning and develop a personalized treatment plan designed around your goals.
Whether you are noticing early thinning, progressive hair loss, or changes that have not improved with over-the-counter treatments, our team offers advanced options to help preserve hair, stimulate growth, and improve confidence.
Our Locations
Clear Choice Dermatology proudly serves patients across the Pacific Northwest with locations in Gearhart, Federal Way, Hillsboro, Lake Oswego, Longview, Port Angeles, Salem, Sandy, Silverdale, Tacoma, The Dalles, Warrenton, and Woodburn in Oregon and Washington, as well as through our affiliated care at Klickitat Valley Health.
Takeaway
Androgenetic alopecia is the most common form of hair loss and is caused by a combination of genetics and hormonal sensitivity that gradually affects hair follicles. While it is a progressive condition, early diagnosis and treatment can help slow hair loss, maintain existing hair, and encourage healthier growth. At Clear Choice Dermatology, our providers are committed to helping patients understand their hair loss and develop personalized treatment plans to achieve their best possible results.