Androgenetic alopecia affects two thirds of men by 35. Understanding your Norwood stage is the first step to finding the right solution.
Male pattern baldness — clinically known as androgenetic alopecia — is the most common cause of hair loss in men. It is driven by a combination of genetic sensitivity and the hormone dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a byproduct of testosterone.
DHT binds to receptors in genetically susceptible follicles, causing them to miniaturise progressively over years. The follicle produces thinner, shorter hairs with each cycle, eventually ceasing production altogether.
The pattern typically follows a predictable course — recession at the temples, thinning at the crown — classified using the Norwood-Hamilton scale from NW1 (no loss) to NW7 (extensive loss).
Crucially, the hair at the back and sides of the scalp (the "safe donor zone") is genetically resistant to DHT and remains permanent throughout life — which is why FUE hair transplantation works: the transplanted follicles retain their DHT resistance at the new location.
Treatment depends on your Norwood stage, age, rate of progression and donor density. Here is an honest breakdown.
Topical solution (Regaine) applied daily. Prolongs the growth phase. Best for early-stage loss and maintenance. Does not regrow lost follicles. Results stop when you stop using it.
Oral DHT-blocking medication (Propecia). Clinically proven to slow progression in most men. Most effective at NW1–NW4. Requires prescription. Long-term use needed to maintain effect.
Permanent solution. DHT-resistant follicles relocated from donor zone to thinning areas. Results are natural, permanent and indistinguishable from native hair. Best from NW3 onwards when loss has stabilised.
Many patients combine finasteride (to preserve existing hair) with FUE (to restore lost areas). DrQ will advise on the optimal combination at your consultation.
Not sure if you’re a candidate? Submit a free photo assessment and DrQ will give you an honest, personal opinion.
The general rule is to wait until your hair loss has stabilised — usually mid-to-late twenties at the earliest. Operating too young risks further loss behind the transplanted area, requiring additional sessions. DrQ assesses loss trajectory individually and will advise honestly on timing.
Finasteride blocks 60–70% of DHT production, which slows or halts progression in most men. It does not permanently cure androgenetic alopecia — progression typically resumes if the medication is stopped. Most patients use it indefinitely as maintenance.
Yes — when performed correctly. Individual follicular units (1–4 hairs) are implanted at natural angles and densities, following the original growth pattern. The transplanted hair is your own and grows permanently.
Graft count depends entirely on the Norwood stage, the areas being treated and donor density. NW3 patients may need 1,500–2,000 grafts for a hairline. NW5–6 patients may require 3,000–4,500 for comprehensive coverage. DrQ provides a precise estimate after assessment.
Yes — it follows a polygenic inheritance pattern, meaning it is influenced by genes from both sides of the family. If your father and maternal grandfather both experienced early loss, your risk is elevated. However, genetics alone do not determine outcome and not all carriers develop significant loss.
DrQ personally reviews every photo submission. No consultation fee, no obligation — just a straight answer about your candidacy and options.
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