Men
Men’s hair loss
A way in for men: the pattern, the two medicines the NHS names, and the choices that stay private.
Written in the UK, for women and men.
Most permanent hair loss in men is male pattern baldness, driven by dihydrotestosterone in hairs that are genetically sensitive. The NHS names finasteride and minoxidil as the main treatments. Neither is a cure, and neither is a routine NHS prescription for cosmetic pattern loss.
See a GP if hair loss is sudden, patchy, or comes with illness, a rash, or other symptoms. The NHS asks for that conversation before a private clinic.
Men usually meet this as a receding hairline or a thinning crown. NICE describes it as genetically determined, patterned and progressive. Doing nothing is a legitimate choice. So is treatment, if you know it is maintenance, not a reset.
What do men ask about first?
Male pattern baldness is the condition. Finasteride side effects and does minoxidil work are the two medicines. Oral minoxidil is the off-label tablet some clinics discuss. Turkey versus the UK is the surgery page, and it does not invent a price.
Saw palmetto is the supplement men ask about because of DHT. It is not finasteride. PRP is private and unsettled.
If you want a device, start with red light hats. The Hat Pro is the top pick in that category. It does not replace the medical conversation.
Start here
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Common questions
What is the usual treatment for male pattern baldness?
The NHS says finasteride and minoxidil are the main treatments. They do not work for everyone, they only work while used, and they are not all available on the NHS.
How common is it?
NICE CKS says that, in general, 30% of white men are affected by age 30, 50% by age 50, and 80% by age 70, with the highest prevalence in Caucasians.
Do red light hats replace finasteride?
No. They are a separate option. Research suggests red light may help pattern hair loss over months of consistent use. Our top pick in that category is the Hat Pro at £372.
