Causes of Hair Loss in Men:

1. What Is Hair Loss?

Hair loss is the thinning of hair shafts and a reduction in density due to disruption of the normal hair renewal cycle. The most common cause is androgenetic hair loss related to genetic predisposition; besides this, stress, hormonal changes (thyroid disorders, etc.), iron and vitamin deficiencies, certain medications, rapid weight loss, infections, and scalp diseases can also lead to hair loss.

Among the causes of hair loss in men, androgenetic alopecia (male pattern hair loss) ranks first. In individuals with genetic susceptibility, hair follicles that are sensitive to androgens (especially DHT converted from testosterone) gradually miniaturize over time, the anagen phase shortens, and hair becomes thinner and shedding becomes more pronounced. (1)

Global causes and prevalence of hair loss in men (most common type: androgenetic alopecia): It is difficult to give a single overall “all hair loss” prevalence (definitions and types vary), but male pattern hair loss is the most common type worldwide and affects approximately 30–50% of men by age 50; it increases with age and may reach up to 80% by age 80. (1)

Causes of hair loss in men in Türkiye (androgenetic alopecia): In a population-based study conducted in Tokat, Türkiye (≥20 years, n=2322), androgenetic alopecia was found to be 31.8% overall, 47.6% in men, and 19.17% in women. (2)

Hint:

To evaluate hair loss at home by yourself, check these 3 early symptoms:

• The hair in the area where shedding is happening grows more slowly compared to the hair in the nape (back of the head).

• In the area of hair loss, due to miniaturization, hair color may start to look 1–2 shades lighter.

• In the area of hair loss, the scalp may become more visible when the hair is wet and under strong light.

2. How much daily hair shedding is considered normal?

Daily hair shedding varies from person to person, but generally 50–100 hairs/day is considered normal. On hair-washing days, this number may appear temporarily higher; what matters is whether there are signs such as visible thinning together with shedding, recession of the hairline, or opening at the crown area.

3. Causes of Hair Loss in Men: Why Do Men’s Hair Shed More?

The primary reason hair loss is more common in men is genetic predisposition and the gradual weakening of hair follicles by androgen hormones (especially DHT). Follicles sensitive to DHT shrink particularly in the temples and crown area, the hair shafts thin, and the growth duration shortens; accordingly, shedding becomes more noticeable. A similar mechanism can occur in women, but because hormone balance, shedding pattern, and follicular sensitivity differ, it generally progresses as more diffuse thinning and a “complete bald area” is seen more rarely.

4. The Most Common Causes of Hair Loss:

The causes of hair loss in men are listed below item by item.

4.1) Androgenetic alopecia (male/female pattern hair loss):

The most common cause of hair loss in men is androgenetic alopecia, and the main mechanism is the gradual miniaturization of hair follicles under the influence of androgens (especially DHT) together with genetic predisposition (3). In this process, the hair shaft diameter thins, the growth (anagen) duration shortens, and pattern-type thinning develops especially in the frontal hairline–temples and vertex region (3). The disease is chronic and progressive; visibility may increase with environmental factors and age (3). In diagnosis, the clinical pattern, trichoscopy findings, and family history are guiding (3).

4.2) Telogen effluvium (acute/chronic diffuse shedding):

Telogen effluvium is a diffuse, sudden, increased hair shedding picture that occurs when a larger proportion of hairs enter the telogen phase (4). The most common triggers are; high-fever illnesses, surgery/blood loss, the postpartum period, significant psychological stress, rapid weight loss, and certain medications (4). Clinically, shedding most often becomes noticeable 2–3 months after the trigger and leaves no scar on the scalp (4). The acute form is often self-limited; however, it may become chronic if the trigger persists or if an accompanying deficiency/disease is present (4). In the differential diagnosis, androgenetic alopecia and scarring alopecias must definitely be considered (4).

4.3) Alopecia areata (autoimmune, patchy loss):

Alopecia areata is a non-scarring hair loss that develops through immune mechanisms targeting the hair follicle (5). The most typical appearance is sudden onset, sharply demarcated round/oval patches of hair loss on the scalp; eyebrows, beard, and body hair may also be affected (5). Clinical diagnosis is sufficient in most cases; in atypical/diffuse cases or when scarring alopecia is suspected, biopsy may be required (5). The disease course may fluctuate; evaluation is recommended regarding accompanying atopic diseases and other autoimmune conditions (5). The treatment plan is shaped according to disease extent, activity, and the impact on the patient’s quality of life (5)

4.4) Primary scarring alopecias (LPP/FFA, etc.) – risk of permanent loss:

In scarring alopecias, the follicular unit is damaged by inflammation and is replaced by scar tissue; therefore, the loss may be permanent (6). Lichen planopilaris (LPP) and frontal fibrosing alopecia (FFA) are common examples of lymphocytic scarring alopecias, and early diagnosis is critical to slow progression (6). Clinically, burning, pain, itching, perifollicular erythema/scaling, and irreversible reduction in hair density may be seen on the scalp (6). In diagnosis, trichoscopy and often biopsy are important (6). The goal of treatment is to suppress inflammatory activity and stop the development of new scarring (6)

4.5) Scalp fungal infection (Tinea capitis):

Tinea capitis is an infection caused by dermatophytes affecting the hair and scalp, presenting with scaling, broken hairs, and patchy hair loss (7). Inflammatory forms (e.g., kerion) may lead to scarring and permanent alopecia if treatment is delayed (7). Although it is more common in children, it can also occur in adults, especially if risk factors are present (7). In diagnosis, in addition to clinical findings, direct microscopy/culture and dermoscopy when necessary are helpful (7). Treatment is done with systemic antifungals; topical treatment alone is insufficient in most cases (7)

4.6) Traction alopecia (hair loss due to mechanical pulling):

Traction alopecia is hair loss that develops due to prolonged traction on the hair (tight ponytails, braids, hair extensions, certain hairstyles) (8). In the early period, follicle damage may be reversible; however, if traction continues, scarring may develop over time and the hair loss can become permanent (8). Clinically, thinning along the hairline, broken hairs, and tenderness/folliculitis-like papules may be seen (8). In diagnosis, history (hair styling habits) and examination are very valuable (8). The basis of treatment is eliminating mechanical stress and managing accompanying inflammation (8)

4.7) Trichotillomania (hair-pulling disorder):

Among the causes of hair loss in men, psychological disorders also have a place. Trichotillomania is alopecia caused by repetitive hair-pulling behavior, often characterized by irregular borders and hair shafts of different lengths (9). Lesions are usually patchy, and broken hairs, a “black dot”-like appearance, and asymmetry may be noticeable on the scalp (9). Scarring is generally not expected; however, long-term trauma and secondary infections may worsen the picture (9). In diagnosis, clinical appearance, dermoscopy, and evaluation of psychiatric comorbidities are important (9). In treatment, behavioral approaches and psychiatric treatments (especially habit reversal-based methods) are the main approaches (9)

4.8) Endocrine and systemic causes (especially thyroid disorders):

Thyroid dysfunction can contribute to diffuse thinning and shedding by affecting the hair cycle (10). In hypothyroidism, hair may become coarser-drier-more brittle and the transition to the telogen phase may increase; in hyperthyroidism, similarly, diffuse shedding can occur (10). These pictures usually accompany systemic symptoms (fatigue, weight changes, heat intolerance, etc.) (10). When the underlying thyroid disorder is treated, improvement in hair loss is expected, but recovery may take months (10). When clinically suspected, evaluation with TSH and free thyroid hormones is recommended (10)

4.9) Nutrition and micronutrient-related causes (iron/B12/vitamin D, etc.):

Among the causes of hair loss in men, in some patients, decreases in parameters such as iron stores, B12, and vitamin D can be seen together with complaints of hair loss and may support the evaluation (11). Especially in diffuse shedding pictures (e.g., telogen effluvium), investigating accompanying biochemical imbalances is often done in practice (11). Vitamin D deficiency has been associated with studies reporting that levels may be lower in both scarring and non-scarring alopecias; however, causality is not clear in every case (12). Therefore, instead of “supplement alone,” a personalized approach according to the clinical picture and laboratory findings is recommended (11,12). In prolonged or unexplained shedding, basic screening tests should be planned under clinician guidance (11)

4.10) Drug-induced hair loss (telogen/anagen effluvium)

Some drugs among the causes of hair loss in men can affect the hair cycle and most commonly lead to hair loss in the form of telogen effluvium (delayed diffuse shedding) or anagen effluvium (faster, marked shedding; especially chemotherapies) (13). Many drug classes (cytotoxics, some immunomodulators/biologics, anticoagulants, etc.) are associated with this picture (13). In diagnosis, the time relationship (drug initiation–onset of shedding), exclusion of other causes, and if needed trichoscopy/pull test are helpful (13). In most cases, shedding may reverse when the responsible drug is discontinued or changed; however, persistent pictures have rarely been reported (13). Decisions to discontinue/change medication must be made under physician supervision (13)

5. When should you see a doctor?

If shedding lasts longer than 2–3 months, is gradually increasing, or if noticeable thinning/opening occurs, a dermatology evaluation is necessary (4,6). If there are signs of inflammation on the scalp such as pain, burning, prominent itching, redness, crusting, pustules/discharge, you should apply without delay in terms of scarring alopecias or infections (6,7). If hair loss develops in patches (differential diagnosis of alopecia areata, tinea capitis, trichotillomania), professional evaluation is important (5,7,9). If there is a history of tight hairstyles/traction along with recession at the hairline or broken hairs, early intervention in traction alopecia can prevent permanence (8). If systemic symptoms (fatigue, weight change, palpitations, menstrual irregularity, etc.) accompany shedding, evaluation should be made for endocrine and systemic causes (10)

6. FAQ Frequently Asked Questions:

6.1) Can Hair Loss in Men Be Stopped with Home Remedies

To solve the causes of hair loss in men, some people resort to certain remedies. Because male pattern hair loss (androgenetic alopecia) mostly progresses with genetic + DHT sensitivity, “remedies” applied at home alone do not permanently stop this process (14). Although there are studies related to some practices such as rosemary oil, the level of evidence is limited and not strong enough to replace standard treatments (15). Supplements such as biotin may not show meaningful benefit routinely if there is no biotin deficiency (16). In summary, home care approaches can be supportive; however, effective results require correct diagnosis and evidence-based treatments (14,17).

6.2) Is There a Treatment in 2026 That Completely Stops Hair Loss in Men

Because male pattern hair loss (androgenetic alopecia) is a chronic process that progresses with genetic and hormone sensitivity, there is no single treatment that permanently and completely “ends” it for everyone (18). However, evidence-based treatments (e.g., 5-alpha reductase inhibitors and minoxidil) can significantly slow hair loss in many patients and provide partial regrowth (18,19). This benefit is generally maintained as long as treatment continues; therefore, long-term continuity is important (19).

Hair transplantation can permanently improve appearance, but it does not stop the biology of ongoing hair loss by itself; therefore, it is recommended to plan it together with medical treatment in suitable patients (20). News such as “A drug was developed that stops hair loss and provides 500% hair growth” in the media is often presented with such striking headlines to gain ratings. The experiments conducted are generally on “mouse subjects” and have not been proven effective in humans.

6.3) Is the “Stops Hair Loss and Provides 500% Hair Growth (2026)” News in the Media True

While researching the causes of hair loss in men, you inevitably encounter some news being circulated. These news items mostly rely on Cosmo Pharmaceuticals’ phase 3 (SCALP-1/SCALP-2) topline announcement regarding clascoterone 5% topical solution; in one study, a relative improvement of 539% vs placebo in TAHC (target area hair count) was reported, and in the other, 168% “relative improvement.” (21) However, this does not mean “500% more hair”; the ratio can become large because it is calculated compared to the very low increase in placebo—for example, going from 10 to 60 is theoretically a 500% increase, but visible density may still be insufficient. (22)

Also, as of January 2026, it is not yet an approved treatment for this indication; the company states that it plans to complete 12-month safety follow-up in spring 2026 and then plans FDA/EMA submission. (23) So headlines like “In 2026 it definitely stopped shedding and produced 500% hair” are exaggerated/early; the data we have is not a full peer-reviewed publication, but at the topline results level. (24) Note: The 1% cream form of clascoterone is FDA-approved for acne; this is not the same product/evidence level as the 5% scalp solution being studied for hair loss. (25)

6.4) Does Shaving the Hair to Zero Stop Hair Loss?

Shaving the hair to zero is not a treatment that stops hair loss; because the procedure only shortens the part of the hair shaft above the skin and does not change the biology of the follicle (26–28). Especially in androgenetic alopecia, since the main mechanism of hair loss is follicular miniaturization over time, shaving does not stop this process (29). After shaving, hair may sometimes appear “thicker”; this is generally a visual effect due to the blunt cut end of the hair, not a real increase in density (27,28). Nevertheless, shaving to zero can be preferred for managing appearance and can relieve the scalp in some people by reducing mechanical traction; however, it does not replace medical treatment (28,29).

7. The Place of Hair Transplantation within Hair Loss Treatments:

The hair loss sector has a very large demand worldwide. Therefore, countless news items are made about products and remedies. Today, the most long-term and permanent results are obtained with hair transplantation. (You can get detailed information in our article “What is hair transplantation?”) However, making the decision for hair transplantation by paying attention to eligibility criteria is important for long-term results. When the type of hair loss is analyzed and combined with the correct hair transplant techniques, it is possible to have visually satisfying and permanent hair. After the causes of hair loss in men are determined, when the right treatment protocols come together with clinical examination, the expected results can be achieved.

8. General Evaluation About the Causes of Hair Loss in Men

In conclusion, the causes of hair loss in men are mostly associated with androgenetic alopecia; however, telogen effluvium that develops with triggers such as stress and systemic diseases, autoimmune processes (alopecia areata), infections, traction, and more rarely scarring alopecias can also accompany the picture. Therefore, instead of assuming a “single cause,” the pattern of shedding (pattern/diffuse/patchy), onset time, accompanying scalp findings, and family history should be evaluated together. Especially if there is rapidly increasing shedding, patchy bald areas, symptoms such as pain-burning-redness, or significant thinning, early dermatologic evaluation both speeds up correct diagnosis and reduces the risk of permanent loss.

9. References:

1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK278957/
2. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26228320/
3. Shin, J. W. (2024). Updates in Treatment for Androgenetic Alopecia. Annals of Dermatology.
4. Hughes, E. C., & Saleem, M. D. (2024). Telogen Effluvium. In StatPearls. NCBI Bookshelf.
5. Sibbald, C., et al. (2023). Alopecia Areata: An Updated Review for 2023.
6. Stege, H., et al. (2024). Treatment of Lichen Planopilaris and Frontal Fibrosing Alopecia. Journal of Clinical Medicine.
7. Hill, R. C., et al. (2024). Comprehensive Review of Tinea Capitis in Adults.
8. Larrondo, J., et al. (2023). Traction Alopecia. JAMA Dermatology (Patient Information).
9. Christensen, R. E., et al. (2023). Recent advances in trichotillomania: a narrative review. Acta Dermatovenerologica Alpina, Pannonica et Adriatica.
10. Hussein, R. S., et al. (2023). Impact of Thyroid Dysfunction on Hair Disorders.
11. Durusu Türkoğlu, I. N., et al. (2024). Analysis of Hb, ferritin, vitamin B12, vitamin D, thyroid… in telogen effluvium.
12. Yongpisarn, T., et al. (2024). Vitamin D deficiency in non-scarring and scarring alopecias. Frontiers in Nutrition.
13. Alhanshali, L., et al. (2023). Medication-induced hair loss: An update. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology (JAAD).
14. Kaiser, M. (2023). Treatment of Androgenetic Alopecia: Current Guidance and Unmet Needs. Dermatology and Therapy.
15. Panahi, Y., et al. (2015). Rosemary oil vs minoxidil 2% for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia: A randomized comparative trial.
16. Yelich, A., et al. (2024). Biotin for Hair Loss: Teasing Out the Evidence.
17. Evron, E., et al. (2020). Natural hair supplements and related evidence (ör. saw palmetto vb.). Skin Appendage Disorders.
18. Kaiser, M. (2023). Treatment of Androgenetic Alopecia: Current Guidance and Unmet Needs.
19. Nestor, M. S., et al. (2021). Treatment options for androgenetic alopecia: Efficacy, side effects, compliance, financial considerations, and ethics.
20. Goldin, J., Zito, P. M., & Raggio, B. S. (2025, last update Aug 2, 2025). Hair Transplantation (StatPearls).
21. Cosmo Pharmaceuticals. (2025, 3 Aralık). Breezula (clascoterone %5 solüsyon) için SCALP-1/SCALP-2 Faz 3 topline sonuçları: TAHC’de plaseboya karşı “%539” ve “%168” göreceli iyileşme.
22. Indian Express. (2025, 28 Aralık). New drug shows strong phase 3 results against male baldness (clascoterone; 5.39-fold ve 1.68-fold göreceli iyileşme anlatımı).
23. Dermatology Times. (2025, 4 Aralık). Clascoterone %5’in Faz 3 saç büyümesi sonuçları (539% ve 168% “relative improvement” vurgusu).
24. ClinicalTrials.gov. (NCT05910450). Clascoterone solüsyonun erkek tipi saç dökülmesinde etkinlik ve güvenliliğini değerlendiren çalışma kaydı.
25. U.S. FDA. (2020). WINLEVI (clascoterone) %1 krem—onaylı endikasyon: akne vulgaris; resmi etiket/label.
26. Lynfield, Y. L., et al. (1970). Shaving and hair growth. Journal of Investigative Dermatology.
27. Vreeman, R. C., & Carroll, A. E. (2007). Medical myths. BMJ.
28. Karthikeyan, K. (2009). Tonsuring: Myths and facts.
29. Ho, C. H., et al. (2024). Androgenetic Alopecia. StatPearls (NCBI Bookshelf).