Also known as androgenetic alopecia, male pattern baldness is a common condition. The National Library of Medicine says it affects up to half of all men over the age of 50, but some symptoms of hair loss can begin much earlier. So, when do men typically start balding?

This guide to hair loss in men will tell you the signs and symptoms of balding to watch out for. You’ll also discover the age at which you may notice the effects of hair thinning. With this information in mind, you’ll be prepared to combat the effects of hair loss whenever it arises. A proactive approach to thinning and balding will help you feel more confident about your hair. The right tools and strategies can also help delay the progress of hair loss.

According to the National Institute of Health, androgenetic alopecia typically starts above both temples. You’ll probably see a thinning of hair in this area before you notice signs anywhere else. Next, your hair will continue to recede at the hairline, forming a characteristic “M” shape. Other telltale symptoms of hair loss include thinning of the hair at the back of the head, as well as receding hair at the crown.

There are various causes of balding in men. Some are genetic, while others occur due to health conditions. When a man has male pattern baldness or androgenetic alopecia, he inherits the gene from his parents. According to a recent review of research on male pattern baldness, the degree and onset of this type of balding will depend on the specific genetics of the person’s family, as well as unique factors involving their endocrine system.

There are some reasons for balding that are not due to androgenetic alopecia. Some other causes of hair loss include hormonal changes and skin disorders. If you’re curious as to what type of hair loss you may have, you may decide to consult with your primary care professional. While most males notice male pattern baldness, a doctor can help you rule out any other reasons for your symptoms.

As you now know, most men will some degree of hair loss once they’re around 50 years of age. How do you know, however, if you’ll see thinning much sooner? It’s possible that you could see the first signs of balding in your 20s—or even your teens. However, most men won’t. You’ll usually have someone in your family with early hair loss if this is the case.

Expect to start to notice some level of thinning between 30 and 50 years of age. A regular inspection of your temples, crown, and hairline can help you review your progress. You can use a small mirror to check the back of your head or enlist the assistance of a friend or partner. Some men like to take photos of their hairline to save and review later.

Whether you think you have the “balding gene” in your family, are seeing the first signs of hair loss due to androgenetic alopecia, or your hair has been thinning for some time, there are things you can do to slow the progress of hair loss and enjoy better looking hair. First, be on the lookout for the signs and symptoms of androgenetic alopecia. Next, focus on the ways you can get fuller hair and a healthier scalp.

For men with male pattern baldness, you have treatment options. The current choices in hair regrowth for men as a result of androgenetic alopecia include prescription medications, surgical solutions, or low-level laser therapy for hair loss. Laser therapy is an excellent option for those who are searching for a convenient, comfortable, and drug-free way to help treat hair loss and help to regrow hair. It uses low-level laser treatment (LLLT) to increase cell metabolism and the health of blood vessels in the scalp. It also stimulates the sebaceous glands for shinier, more lustrous-looking hair.

If you’re interested in laser therapy for your male pattern baldness, discover our low-level laser therapy caps. No matter whether you prefer 410 mW of total output for great scalp coverage, or up to 1360 mw of total output for 3.3x the scalp coverage, you can find the right amount of follicle stimulation for your needs. Our CapillusPro^TM is the FDA-cleared, clinically-proven laser therapy cap to treat hair loss. Since it uses lasers to stimulate and improve the health of your hair follicles, it’ll penetrate your scalp more effectively than Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs).

The discreet cap design can be worn anywhere, including at home or on-the-go. In fact, all you need is six minutes of use per day as you go about your usual activities. Its flexible fit feels comfortable and prevents pinching, while the auto shut-off feature will keep you from watching the clock. While you’ll love the convenience and ease of use, you’ll also like that it has no known adverse side effects, is assembled in the USA, and pairs well with our Cap+^® Hair Care Products for overall scalp health. In just minutes per day, you can help to prevent hair loss and regrow hair, no matter when the thinning or balding begins.