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

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

Short answer: The first signs of hair loss are a receding hairline, thinning hair at the crown and more hair in the shower drain. The sooner you spot 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, yet hair loss often begins much earlier. The first signs are subtle: a slightly receding hairline here, a few more hairs on the pillow there. It is precisely in this early stage that treatment is most effective. The sooner you recognise the signs, the greater the chance of slowing down the process or even partially reversing 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, as the hair cycle constantly produces new hair to replace it. It only becomes a cause for concern when more hair falls out than grows back, and this is observed over a prolonged period. The causes of hair loss in men can be divided into temporary and hereditary forms, and this distinction is crucial in determining which measures are 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 the forehead becomes deeper and more pronounced, whilst the hair at the crown becomes thinner and 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.

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

Temporary hair loss always has a recognisable 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 addressed, 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 fully recovering. If you notice both receding temples and thinning at the crown, and this runs in both sides of your family, there is a high probability that it is the hereditary form.

Can hair loss be stopped at an early stage?

Early intervention makes a demonstrable difference. Studies show that early treatment delivers the best results: once the 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 circulation in 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 find out more about finasteride and minoxidil as treatments for hair loss and what you can expect in practice here.

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

Don’t expect results within a few weeks. According to a recent treatment update, the first visible effects of finasteride are typically only noticeable after 3 to 6 months on average. With minoxidil, this applies to the first 4 months. Some men even experience increased hair loss in the initial phase due to what is known as ‘shedding’: Hair that was already in a weakened phase falls out earlier to make way for new hair. This is not a sign that the treatment is failing. Perseverance is crucial, 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 starting treatment.

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, eating a varied diet with sufficient protein, iron and zinc, and avoiding chronic stress all contribute to a healthy hair cycle. Use a mild shampoo free from harsh sulphates and avoid rubbing damp hair with a towel. The Pharmacotherapeutic Compass confirms that lifestyle measures are useful as a complementary approach, but are not sufficient to reverse the course of androgenetic alopecia. For those who want more than just support, stimulating hair growth with minoxidil is a proven supplement. A randomised study published in JAMA Dermatology found that both oral and topical minoxidil effectively stimulate hair growth in men with androgenetic alopecia.

How does Fellos help with hair loss?

You can have hair loss treated via Fellos without long waiting times or hospital visits. The initial online consultation takes less than three minutes and is assessed by a Dutch doctor. Based on your situation, the doctor will draw up a personalised treatment plan, including a prescription if necessary. The medication is delivered discreetly to your home. You can adjust the treatment at any time via the app if a change is required.

Detect 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 recognise them in time and take action have the best chance of retaining their hair. Fellos makes this possible: a doctor to guide your treatment, proven remedies and no hassle. Would you like to know if you’re eligible? Take the online assessment test at Treat hair loss with Fellos.

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