Male hair loss, specifically the common genetic form, is often called male pattern baldness.
Understanding Male Pattern Baldness
According to the provided reference (dated 27-Jul-2023), androgenetic alopecia is a common form of hair loss affecting both men and women. In men, this specific type of hair loss is also known as male pattern baldness. In women, it's known as female pattern hair loss.
Essentially, male pattern baldness is the most frequent cause of hair thinning and loss in men, and it is directly linked to genetics and hormones (specifically androgens).
Key Terms
Here are some key terms related to this condition:
- Androgenetic Alopecia: The scientific term for the genetic form of hair loss that affects both sexes.
- Male Pattern Baldness: The common name for androgenetic alopecia when it occurs in men.
- Female Pattern Hair Loss: The common name for androgenetic alopecia when it occurs in women.
| Term | Affected Sex | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Androgenetic Alopecia | Both | Genetic and hormonal hair loss |
| Male Pattern Baldness | Men | Common term for androgenetic alopecia in men |
| Female Pattern Hair Loss | Women | Common term for androgenetic alopecia in women |
How Male Pattern Baldness Typically Progresses
Male pattern baldness usually follows a recognizable pattern:
- Receding Hairline: Hair often begins to thin at the temples.
- Thinning Crown: Hair on the top of the head, specifically the crown, starts to thin.
- Merging Areas: The receding hairline and thinning crown areas gradually enlarge and merge.
- Horseshoe Shape: Eventually, hair may remain only on the sides and back of the head, forming a horseshoe pattern.
This progression highlights why it's called "pattern" baldness – it tends to follow a predictable course.
Understanding that male pattern baldness is the common term for androgenetic alopecia in men provides a clear answer to what this form of hair loss is called.
