A receding hairline commonly develops in men as they age. Although hair loss can be distressing, it’s very common, with around 50% of men experiencing it by age 50.

The most common type of hair loss in men is male androgenic alopecia, which typically leads to a receding hairline and hair loss around the temples. While women are less likely to experience a receding hairline, they may experience hair thinning. However, conditions such as frontal fibrosing alopecia and traction alopecia can still cause hairlines to recede in women.

While a receding hairline in men often begins above the temples, the hair at the front may remain closer to the forehead, forming a V-shaped pattern known as a widow’s peak. The sides and back of the scalp can eventually turn bald, though many men still retain some hair unless they choose to shave it. In women, hair loss typically begins at the center of the scalp in the parting and gradually becomes more noticeable. Over time, hair thinning can extend to the temples as well.

What Are the Signs of a Receding Hairline?

A receding hairline can begin in men anytime after puberty. By their late 30s, many men experience some degree of hairline recession. The process typically starts above the temples, gradually moving backward across the crown. This progression often leaves a ring of hair around the sides and back of the scalp, with thinning hair sometimes persisting on top.

While a receding hairline in men often begins above the temples, the hair at the front may remain closer to the forehead, forming a V-shaped pattern known as a widow’s peak. The sides and back of the scalp can eventually become bald, though many men still retain some hair unless they choose to shave it. In women, hair loss typically begins at the part of the scalp and gradually becomes more noticeable. Over time, hair thinning can extend to the temples as well.

What Causes a Hairline to Recede?

Your scalp contains hundreds of thousands of hairs, each growing from follicles located beneath the skin. These hairs naturally fall out and are regularly replaced, leading to the daily loss of dozens of strands. However, if hair follicles become damaged or a medical condition disrupts the natural growth cycle, a receding hairline can result.

Aging

Hair loss is a natural part of aging that most people experience to some extent. As you age, hair growth slows and eventually stops and changes in hair color are also common.

Family history

A receding hairline is often an inherited trait that can affect both men and women. If you’re genetically predisposed to hair loss, your hair follicles may gradually shrink and stop producing new hair. The timing and pattern of hair loss frequently mirror those seen in previous generations.

Hormonal Changes

Hormonal fluctuations can also contribute to hair loss in women, though their role in female pattern hair loss is less defined than in male pattern hair loss. For instance, menopause often leads to hair thinning, although it doesn’t always affect the hairline.

How to Diagnose a Receding Hairline?

To determine the type and cause of your hair loss, it’s important to consult a dermatologist. They will review your personal and family medical history and conduct a visual examination of your scalp. One common test is the pull test, where the doctor gently tugs on a few hairs to assess how many fall out or how easily they come loose.

In some cases, a scalp biopsy may be necessary to check for infections or other issues. During a biopsy, the doctor removes a small tissue sample from the affected area, which is then analyzed in a lab for signs of infection or disease. Additionally, a blood test might be ordered to check for underlying conditions, such as thyroid disorders, that could be contributing to your hair loss.

What Treatment Options are Available for a Receding Hairline?

If your receding hairline is due to aging and not linked to an infection or other health condition, treatment may not be necessary. However, if a medical issue is causing your hair loss, medication could be required.

Medications

Your doctor may suggest prescription medications to address hair loss, and some treatments are also available over-the-counter (OTC). Here are a few medications your doctor might recommend:

Minoxidil: This medication, originally used to treat high blood pressure, is frequently used to address hair loss. It’s available in topical forms like creams and foams over-the-counter or in tablet form by prescription.

Prednisone: For those with immune disorders, prednisone can help manage an overactive immune response that may contribute to hair loss.

Finasteride: This oral medication can encourage hair growth, but it may have side effects, including a lower sex drive and an increased risk of prostate cancer.

Surgical Options

Surgical options for a receding hairline include hair restoration surgery, where a surgeon relocates small sections of your scalp and hair follicles from the back of your head to areas with thinning or no hair. These transplanted follicles can continue to grow hair in their new location, and the areas where the hair was taken from may still grow hair as normal.

What Can I Expect with a Receding Hairline?

A receding hairline may be the first sign of eventual baldness or just a minor change that doesn’t progress further. Predicting how much your hairline will recede can be challenging. However, observing the hair loss patterns of genetically related relatives, such as parents or siblings, might offer some insight into your potential progression. If you’re interested in restoring hair growth in the affected areas, several medications and treatments have been shown to be effective. Consulting with your dermatologist is a great starting point to discuss your options.

Conclusion

A receding hairline is more commonly seen in males, but females can also experience hair loss. In men, hair loss typically presents as thinning at the temples and front of the scalp, while women often notice thinning starting at the part. Though hair loss can be distressing, it is a common issue. If you wish, there are options available, including medications and surgery, to help manage it.