Androgenetic Alopecia: Our Guide

Androgenic alopecia, also known as androgenetic alopecia, hereditary alopecia, and male/female pattern baldness, is the most common cause of hair loss worldwide. It can effect people of all genders and ethnicities, sometimes starting as early in life as their twenties.

Typically, androgenetic alopecia develops slowly, starting from puberty. It’s normal to lose hair over the course of one’s life, as it’s part of a natural ageing process that occurs gradually. However, if this happens during the early adult years, it is most often a sign of hereditary alopecia.

Summary

1. Is Androgenic Alopecia Common? More Common Than You Might Think
2. What Causes Androgenic Alopecia?
3. What Are the Androgenetic Alopecia Treatment Options in 2025?
4. Hair Transplantation: The Only Long-Term Solution
5. Our Tips for Managing Androgenetic Alopecia

Is Androgenic Alopecia Common? More Common Than You Might Think

Unfortunately, hair loss due to androgenic alopecia is more common than most people realise. According to studies, men often report noticing the symptoms of male pattern baldness emerging as early as their 20s and it only increases with age. Around 21% of men in their twenties report experiencing androgenic alopecia and this figure rises to about 85% by the age of 50. In women, the prevalence is approximately 12% between 20 and 30 years of age and about 75% after 70 years.

The complexity of androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is further compounded by the fact that it can manifest differently among ethnic groups. While the prevalence of AGA increases with age in both men and women of all ethnicities, it varies wildly by gender and ethnicity. People of Caucasian origin are the most affected, while it’s less common in Asian and African individuals. The reasons for these differences are not fully understood, but studies have shown varying severity patterns.

What are the Symptoms of Androgenetic Alopecia?

Androgenic Alopecia is often referred to as “Male/Female Pattern Baldness”, due to the characteristic pattern of the hair loss in affected areas. These patterns differ between men and women. Generally, the following androgenetic alopecia symptoms can be observed.

In men:

• Formation of a receding hairline
• Formation of a bald spot at the back of the head
• Final formation of a hair crown in the lower back of the head and temples

In women:

• Increased thinning of hair at the crown
• Partially accentuated hair loss
• Receding hairline

As there are so many differences in both symptoms and treatments among men and women, it is difficult to give blanket statements on the topic of this form of hair loss. With that in mind, let’s take a closer look at how androgenic alopecia in women and men differs.

Understanding Androgenetic Alopecia by Gender

Hair loss due to androgenic alopecia occurs when hair follicles in sensitive areas shrink and thin over time, eventually falling out and not regrowing.

In men, the hairline begins to recede and takes the shape of an “M.” The area at the back of the head also starts to thin and expand over time. One of the final stages results in a U-shaped hairline on the sides of the head.

In women, hair generally thins at the middle part, revealing the scalp. In many cases, the problem starts at a young age and worsens rapidly during menopause. There is also often a receding hairline above the temples, causing significant distress to affected women. If left untreated, the condition can lead to complete hair loss in both genders.

What Causes Androgenic Alopecia?

Androgenetic alopecia is primarily caused by the hormone dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT is produced from a male hormone, testosterone. In men, the enzyme 5-alpha-reductase is particularly active in the hair follicles of the temples and the back of the head. This enzyme converts testosterone into DHT.

DHT affects hair follicles, making them smaller and weaker. As a result, hair falls out and does not regrow. In addition to genetic predisposition, there are other factors that can cause hair loss, including:

• Stress
• Obesity
• Smoking
• Alcohol consumption
• Medications

Genetic predisposition plays a significant role in this type of hair loss, and specific hormone variations, combined with other factors, create ideal conditions for the development of androgenic alopecia.

The AGA gene is more likely to be expressed in men and women suffering from alopecia who inherit the gene from their father or mother. The gene can remain dormant for years before being expressed. To date, there is no screening to predict when this will occur.

What are the Androgenetic Alopecia Treatment Options in 2025?

If you have hereditary conditions or are already experiencing hair loss, it is important to start treatment as early as possible. It is a chronic and persistent condition, so the earlier you start, the more treatment options you have.

We have listed the different types of existing androgenic alopecia treatments so you can make the best choice for you. It is also important to follow the advice of a professional to be safely prepared.

Topical Treatments

Minoxidil is the most popular topical options for treating androgenetic alopecia. This active substance is highly regarded as a “gateway” treatment for hereditary baldness. By stimulating hair follicle growth, it increases blood flow to the scalp and prevents further hair loss.

However, it must be used regularly for lasting results. As soon as you stop or pause your treatment of Minoxidil, your androgenetic alopecia symptoms will resume. The following side effects may also occur:

• Changes in hair texture
• Scalp irritation or redness
• Accidental hair growth on other parts of the body
• Chest pain
• Sudden weight gain
• Swelling of the hands or feet
• Dizziness

It is important to determine the best concentration and usage frequency under medical supervision.

Oral Medication Treatments

When it comes to oral treatments, Finasteride and Dutasteride are the first choice for many people. They are primarily DHT blockers, allowing hair follicles to remain in the growth phase longer. Results typically appear about three months after starting treatment.

However, some hair loss suffers are discouraged by the side effects of these medications, which include:

• Reduced libido
• Erectile dysfunction and ejaculation problems

These side effects are more common in men taking higher doses of the medication. Additionally, it can lead to serious complications in women considering pregnancy or who are pregnant.

Before using Finasteride or Dutasteride for AGA, consult a doctor to understand the risks and benefits of these medications.

Laser Therapy

Low-level laser therapy is a relatively recent androgenetic alopecia treatment . By penetrating the scalp with low-intensity light, it repairs and regenerates tissue in that area.

Studies have not yet shown definitive results, but recepients of the therapy have reported that it helps stimulate hair growth in men and women, including those with AGA. Moreover, cellular metabolism and blood flow to hair follicles are increased, leading to improved hair growth.

Microneedling

During microneedling treatment, a device with fine needles is used to puncture the skin at regular intervals. The depth of the punctures can vary depending on the skin’s condition and the treatment’s goal. Results are generally visible after several treatments. In cases of hair loss, microneedling can stimulate hair growth and thicken it.

The treatment is usually painless and lasts about 30 minutes. After the treatment, the skin may be red and swollen, but this is normal and should fade within a few days. The frequency of microneedling sessions depends on the skin’s condition and the treatment’s goal. For hair loss, treatments may need to be repeated every 4 to 6 months.

It is a fairly reliable procedure, but some risks can occur, including:

• Redness
• Swelling
• Bleeding
• Infection
• Scar formation

Microneedling can be an effective and relatively safe method for treating skin or hair issues. If you are interested in this method, consult an experienced doctor or dermatologist to determine if it is suitable for your case.

PRP Therapy

PRP therapy, also known as Vampire-Lifting, is a natural method for stimulating hair growth. A small amount of autologous blood is taken from the patient (about 12 ml) and then enriched with essential nutrients. The fluid is then injected into the bald areas of the head.

This method uses high-quality platelet-rich plasma to multiply growth factors in local blood cells – in other words, using your own blood to stimulate hair growth.

Reliable studies show that Platelet Rich Plasma for androgenetic alopecia can have positive effects on hair loss and are entirely safe. Therefore, PRP is a promising and effective treatment option for hair loss.

Hair Transplantation: The Only Long-Term Solution

The only long-term and most effective method to successfully combat androgenic alopecia is hair transplantation. Healthy hair follicles are taken from the donor area at the back of the head, enriched in a special nutrient solution, and then transplanted to the recipient area.

To ensure a perfect result for each patient, Elithair offers an exclusive pre-test system. Six detailed analyses are performed for each patient, including blood tests, Doppler ultrasound, and many others. The results accurately show whether the patient is suitable for a hair transplant and which transplantation technique will yield the best result.

The treatment offers long-lasting results with minimal risks compared to the other treatments mentioned above. After just 12 months, patients can once again enjoy abundant and radiant hair.

Our Tips for Managing Androgenetic Alopecia

Hair loss caused by androgenetic alopecia is a problem that affects both men and women. Since it is often a genetic, hormonal, or lifestyle-related condition, affected individuals may believe their case is incurable, but this is not true.

In addition to the treatment options mentioned above, there are other practical and accessible tips for dealing with the condition:

• Accept your hair loss. It is important to acknowledge that hair loss is a first step in a natural ageing process that affects many people. By accepting the situation, you can begin to find ways to manage it.
• Consult a professional. If you are concerned about your hair loss, speak to a doctor or dermatologist. They will provide you with information about the causes and treatments for your hair loss.
• Look for support groups. There are many androgenetic alopecia support groups. These groups can provide you with emotional support and information about the condition.

If you are considering hair transplantation, consult a specialist beforehand. You will receive an assessment of your hair loss and determine if it is possible in your case.