what causes baldness in men

Quick Scoop

Male baldness is most often caused by **male pattern baldness** — a genetic sensitivity to **DHT** , a hormone related to testosterone, which gradually shrinks hair follicles over time. Other causes can include medical conditions, stress, medications, poor nutrition, or autoimmune disease.

Main Cause

The most common cause is **androgenetic alopecia**. In men who are genetically prone to it, normal levels of androgens can trigger follicle miniaturization, usually showing up as a receding hairline and thinning at the crown.

Other Causes

• Stress or illness , which can cause temporary shedding.

• Medications , which can sometimes lead to hair loss.

• Nutritional deficiencies or other health problems.

• Autoimmune conditions like alopecia areata, which can cause patchy loss rather than classic male-pattern thinning.

What it usually looks like

Typical male pattern baldness starts with thinning at the temples or crown and can progress slowly over years. It often runs in families, and many men notice it becoming more common with age.

When to check with a doctor

If hair loss is **sudden, patchy, itchy, painful, or comes with other symptoms** , it’s worth getting checked, because that pattern may suggest something other than typical male-pattern baldness.

If you want, I can also give you a simple chart of causes vs. signs or the best treatment options.