Hair Loss

What is hair loss?

Hair loss in men often shows up as male pattern baldness. It’s usually genetic and very common. Many men notice changes from their 20s onwards, and it becomes more likely as you get older.

On this page, when we say men’s hair loss, we mainly mean male pattern hair loss.

What causes men’s hair loss?

Male pattern baldness happens when hair follicles become more sensitive to a hormone called DHT (dihydrotestosterone). Over time, DHT can cause follicles to shrink. Hair grows thinner, grows more slowly, and eventually stops growing in those areas.

Hair loss can also happen for other reasons, such as illness, stress, or medical treatment like chemotherapy. These causes need a different approach. If your hair loss is sudden, patchy, or comes with scalp pain or irritation, speak to your GP.

What are the symptoms of male pattern baldness?

Common signs include:

• Thinning at the crown (top of the head)
  
• A receding hairline
  
• Gradual thinning at the temples
  

This type of hair loss usually develops slowly.

How is hair loss assessed and treated?

If you want to explore treatment, you can use the Nashi Pharmacy online clinic. You’ll complete a short, confidential consultation about your hair loss and your health.

A clinician will review your answers. If treatment is suitable, you may be offered prescription hair loss treatments, such as tablets or medicated topical treatments, designed to slow hair loss and in some cases support regrowth. If treatment isn’t suitable, you’ll be advised on the next step.