Male pattern baldness (MPB) is common – and probably more common than you think. 30% of men aged 30 have it to some degree. By the age of 70, that proportion is 70%. While some of us can even see it in our 20s, others can hold out until their older years. The chances are that you will almost certainly see some degree of thinning.

If you’re male and in the 90% of hair loss cases, take a deep breath. It’s okay. MPB (Male Pattern Baldness) is easily treated using widely approved treatments.

You’ll be able to recognise if you have MPB. It first affects either the hair above your temples or on your crown. You’ll see your hairline receding into a “widow’s peak”, a v-shaped hairline at the front of your head. Elsewhere, thinning hair will be seen across the top of the head. Importantly, it won’t fall out suddenly or in clumps, and it won’t leave behind a rash.

There are two effective and approved treatments for a receding hairline: DHT Blockers & Minoxidil.

• DHT Blockers tackle the root cause of MPB by blocking the production of the hormone DHT. Effective in 90% of men, it intervenes to prevent the shrinkage of hair follicles before they become permanently damaged.
• Minoxidil works a “vasodilator”, widening blood vessels on the scalp to facilitate the transport of nutrients and oxygen. It’s shown to help regrowth in two thirds of men.

We recommend that men use both of these treatments together.

Like all medications, these treatments can have side effects. However, the good news is that these side effects are rare, and the vast majority of people do not experience them.

If you're experiencing side effects, speak to one of our clinicians first. They may suggest adjusting your medication, continuing treatment as some side effects improve over time, or switching to a topical treatment, which may have fewer side effects.

Always take your medication exactly as prescribed. Our clinical team is available 7 days a week if you have concerns.