Signs of hair loss in men: how can you spot it early?

Signs of hair loss in men: how can you spot it early?

Short answer: The first signs of hair loss are receding hairline, thinning hair on the crown and more hair in the shower drain. The sooner you recognise the signs of hair loss, the more you can do about it.

Many men only notice they are losing hair once it becomes clearly visible, but hair loss often starts much earlier. The early signs are subtle: a slightly receding hairline here, a bit more hair on the pillow there. It is precisely this early stage when treatment is most effective. The sooner you recognise the signs, the greater the chance that you can slow down the process or even partially reverse it.

When is hair loss normal and when is it not?

Losing hair every day is normal, as long as new hair grows back every day. On average, a person loses between 50 and 100 hairs a day. This is hardly noticeable because the hair cycle constantly produces new hairs to replace them. It only becomes a cause for concern when more hair falls out than grows back, and you notice this over a longer period. You can distinguish between causes of hair loss in men that are temporary and those that are hereditary, and this distinction determines what action is appropriate.

What are the first signs of hair loss in men?

The earliest signs of androgenetic alopecia are subtle changes that men often only notice in hindsight. You see more hair in the shower drain, on your brush or on your pillow than before. The receding hairline at the sides of your forehead becomes deeper and more pronounced, whilst the hair on the crown begins to thin and become less dense. A wider parting than a year ago is also an early sign. Take photos of yourself regularly from the same angle, or ask someone to look at the top of your head in bright light: this provides more insight than a mirror does.

How do you distinguish temporary hair loss from hereditary hair loss?

Temporary hair loss always has an identifiable cause: stress, illness, lack of sleep, or a deficiency in iron or vitamin D. This type of hair loss usually resolves itself once the cause is removed and the hair grows back fully. Hereditary hair loss, also known as androgenetic alopecia, follows a predictable pattern. An overview of the diagnostic criteria shows that this pattern begins at the temples and the crown, with the hairline gradually receding without full recovery. If you notice both a receding hairline and thinning on the crown, and this runs in both sides of your family, there is a good chance you are dealing with the hereditary form.

Can you stop hair loss early?

Early intervention makes a demonstrable difference. Research shows that early treatment yields the best results: once hair follicles have shrunk completely, treatment is largely ineffective. Finasteride inhibits the enzyme 5-alpha-reductase, which converts testosterone into DHT, the hormone that causes hair follicles to shrink. Minoxidil stimulates blood flow to the scalp and prolongs the hair’s growth phase. Both treatments are well documented and work best when active hair is still present. You can read more about finasteride and minoxidil as treatments for hair loss and what to expect in practice.

How quickly will you notice a difference with hair loss treatment?

Do not expect results within a few weeks. According to a recent treatment update, the first visible effects of finasteride are only noticeable on average after 3 to 6 months. With minoxidil, this applies to the first 4 months. Some men even experience increased hair loss in the initial phase due to so-called shedding: hairs that were already in a weakened phase fall out sooner to make way for new hair. This is not a sign that the treatment is failing. Perseverance is essential, as stopping treatment means that hair loss will resume within a few months. The side effects of finasteride are limited in most men, but it is good to be aware of them before you start.

What can you do yourself to limit hair loss?

Lifestyle plays a supportive, but not a decisive, role in hereditary hair loss. Getting enough sleep, following a varied diet rich in protein, iron and zinc, and managing chronic stress all contribute to a healthy hair cycle. Use a mild shampoo without harsh sulphates and avoid rubbing damp hair vigorously with a towel. The Pharmacotherapeutic Compass confirms that lifestyle interventions are useful as a complementary measure, but in androgenetic alopecia they are insufficient to reverse the pattern. For those who want more than just support, stimulating hair growth with minoxidil is a proven addition. A randomised study published in JAMA Dermatology showed that both oral and topical minoxidil effectively stimulate hair growth in men with androgenetic alopecia.

How does Fellos help with hair loss?

You can treat hair loss via Fellos without long waiting times or hospital visits. The online assessment takes less than three minutes and is reviewed by a Dutch doctor. Based on your situation, the doctor will draw up a personalised treatment plan, including a prescription if applicable. The medication is delivered discreetly to your home. You can make adjustments at any time via the app if the treatment needs to be modified.

Spot hair loss early with the help of Fellos

Hair loss rarely stops on its own once it has started, but early action makes a real difference. The signs appear sooner than you think. Those who spot them in time and take action have the best chance of keeping their hair. Fellos makes this accessible: a doctor overseeing your treatment, proven remedies, and no hassle. Want to know if you’re eligible? Complete the online assessment via treat hair loss with Fellos.