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The Latest on Hair Loss Treatments

Everything you want to know about procedures, clinical trials, medications, and more.

Does minoxidil work for a receding hairline?

Minoxidil, an FDA-approved hair loss treatment, is primarily intended for crown balding—but can it help a receding hairline? Studies suggest it may work on frontal areas if applied early, though results vary. For advanced hairline loss, transplants or combination therapies may be more effective.

Man applying minoxidil drops to his scalp

Does minoxidil affect fertility?

Minoxidil, a popular hair loss treatment, has no known effects on male fertility. Unlike finasteride, it doesn’t impact sperm count or hormones. Studies confirm its safety for men trying to conceive, with side effects limited to scalp irritation. Pregnant partners should avoid contact until dried.

Man with toddler, kissing him

The Norwood scale (What it is and how it’s used)

The Norwood scale classifies male pattern baldness into 7 stages, helping identify hair loss progression. Early stages (1-3) respond best to treatments like minoxidil or finasteride, while advanced stages (5-7) may require transplants. Though widely used, its accuracy varies between specialists. Early intervention is key to preserving hair.

Guy with alopecia showing his scalp

What are the parts of the head?

The scalp has five key regions: frontal, temples, mid-scalp, vertex (crown), and occiput. Male pattern baldness typically affects the frontal region and vertex first, while the occiput remains resistant. Understanding these areas helps identify hair loss progression and determine effective treatments, from minoxidil for early stages to transplants for advanced cases.

Diagram with the different parts of the head