A receding hairline may occur in both males and females, though is more common in males. There is no cure for a receding hairline. But, medications may help slow it down and encourage hair growth.
Patterned hair loss, also known as androgenetic alopecia, is a natural part of aging that affects nearly
Males typically experience a receding frontal hairline, which begins just above the temples.
Females more commonly have
Symptoms of a receding hairline may begin to develop after the end of puberty or anytime throughout adulthood.
Although hair loss is part of aging, in some cases, it may be caused by an underlying condition.
This article looks at different causes and treatments for a receding hairline.
A note about sex and gender
Sex and gender exist on spectrums. This article will use the terms “male,” “female,” or both to refer to sex assigned at birth. Click here to learn more.
A receding hairline in males is the first sign of pattern baldness, which usually progresses in distinct steps.
- A receding hairline may start from the temples and appear uneven at first, but it then typically develops into a distinct “M” shape.
- The hair on the top or back of the head then usually begins to fall out, leaving a bald spot.
- These two signs then spread and meet, creating a larger bald spot.
- Eventually, a horseshoe-like ring is usually left around the sides and back of the head.
Approximately 50 million males and 30 million females are affected by androgenetic alopecia in the United States.
There are several causes of a receding hairline.
Age
The risk of hair loss increases with age.
It is estimated that more than 50% of males over the age of 50 have some type of hair loss. By
Hormonal changes
Hormonal changes may trigger a receding hairline in males. An androgen hormone called DHT may impact the hair growth cycle, resulting in male-pattern baldness.
Hair grows in cycles that may last 2-7 years. Each hair grows in a hair follicle on the surface of the scalp. Once the hair grows, it enters a resting phase for a few months, then falls out. As these hairs fall out, new ones replace them.
Too much DHT stimulation may speed up the hair growth cycle and delay regrowth. This may cause thinner hair or baldness.
Family history
Family history may play a role in receding hairlines. Males whose fathers are bald could be
Medications or treatments
Some medications and medical treatments may cause hair loss. A typical example is chemotherapy, which often causes a person’s hair to fall out.
Illness or stress
Illness or stress may lead to sudden hair loss called telogen effluvium. People usually experience this as an unexpected shedding — where they lose much more hair than usual in a short period.
Luckily, this hair loss often reverses itself without treatment.
Lifestyle choices
Research suggests that people who smoke are more likely to experience
There may also be a link between receding hairlines and diet. For example, people who do not get enough
There is no outright cure for a receding hairline, but some medications may help slow it down.
Finasteride (Propecia) and minoxidil (Rogaine) are both drugs that are approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of hair loss.
Other drugs that may be prescribed as off-label medications to help treat a receding hairline include:
- dutasteride (Avodart)
- anthralin (Dritho-Scalp)
- corticosteroid
Some people may consider getting hair transplants or laser surgery.
For people looking for natural ways to help treat their receding hairline, animal studies suggest that
In addition to direct treatments, a person may try other things to help manage their receding hairline.
Hairstyles
Changing the way a person styles their hair may help draw attention away from a receding hairline.
A stylish example is the slicked-back undercut, where a person grows the hair on top of their head out and cuts the sides shorter. Once long enough, they can slick back the hair on top of the head, using a brush or a product.
Other classic examples for people with a receding hairline include a close buzz cut, medium crew cut, or a clean shave.
Lifestyle choices
Finding ways to reduce stress may also help manage a receding hairline. Some strategies may include:
- regular exercise
- eating a whole and varied diet
- practicing breathing exercises
Hair care
Taking care of delicate hair could help keep it on the head. Using more natural hair products, or at least avoiding harsh chemicals, might be a step towards rejuvenating the hair. It may also help to avoid vigorous brushing or pulling the hair too much.
Can a receding hairline grow back?
There is no cure for a receding hairline. However, the prescription drugs finasteride (Propecia) and minoxidil (Rogaine) have both been approved by the FDA to help slow the rate of a person’s receding hairline.
What causes hairline to recede?
Hair loss is a common part of aging and affects at least 50% of males and females.
Causes for a male developing a receding hairline may include:
- age
- stress, anxiety, or illness
- medications or medical treatments
- hormonal changes
- family history
- lifestyle and environmental factors
Why is my hairline receding at 18?
A person’s hairline may start receding once they finish puberty. Factors that influence the age of onset may include hormones, family history, and lifestyle factors.
While a receding hairline may impact a person’s quality of life, it poses no risk to health.
Most people can manage their hairline, and some available treatments may help hair look fuller or help it regrow.
Anybody considering trying these treatments should discuss them thoroughly with a healthcare professional to find the most suitable option.