What is androgenetic alopecia?

It is chronic hair loss linked to genetics and hormones.

Is it the most common cause of baldness?

Yes, it is the main cause in both men and women.

At what age can it start?

From the late teens or early adulthood.

Does androgenetic alopecia also affect women?

Yes, it is common in adult women.

Does the hair grow back on its own?

No, without treatment it generally continues to progress.

Can hair loss be stopped completely?

It can often be slowed down and stabilised, but rarely stopped altogether.

Do treatments need to be continued for a long time?

Yes, their effectiveness depends on regular, long-term use.

Can stress make hair loss worse?

Yes, it can speed up progression.

Is a blood test necessary?

Sometimes, especially in women.

Does diet play a role?

Yes, deficiencies can make hair loss worse.

Are there effective treatments for women?

Yes, tailored to the hormonal profile.

No, they are only complementary.

Are scalp injections useful?

They can improve hair quality and density.

Are stimulation devices effective?

They can be beneficial as an add-on.

Can androgenetic alopecia be prevented?

It cannot be prevented, but early action is possible.

Is androgenetic alopecia a disease?

It is a chronic condition with a genetic component.

When should I see a dermatologist?

As soon as you notice the first signs of hair loss or thinning.

Dermatology · Scalp & hair

Androgenetic alopecia

Androgenetic alopecia, the leading cause of hair loss in both men and women, is a gradual miniaturisation of the hair follicles of hormonal and genetic origin. Its cosmetic and psychological impact warrants dermatological follow-up.

Written by Dr A. Turcarelli, dermatologist and allergist Updated 4 January 2026 6 min read

Book an appointment Frequently asked questions

Introduction

Androgenetic alopecia is the most common cause of hair loss in both men and women. It involves the gradual miniaturisation of hair follicles under the influence of hormonal and genetic factors. The condition progresses slowly but can have a significant cosmetic and psychological impact, which warrants specialist dermatological care.

Symptoms

Gradual reduction in hair density
Finer, shorter, more fragile hair
In men: Receding temples Thinning at the crown
Receding temples
Thinning at the crown
In women: Gradual widening of the central parting Diffuse thinning on the top of the head
Gradual widening of the central parting
Diffuse thinning on the top of the head
No inflammation or pain
Slow progression over several years

Causes

Familial genetic predisposition
Increased sensitivity of hair follicles to dihydrotestosterone (DHT)
Shortening of the hair growth cycle
Gradual miniaturisation of the follicle
Possible aggravating factors: Chronic stress Associated deficiencies Hormonal disorders in women
Chronic stress
Associated deficiencies
Hormonal disorders in women

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is essentially clinical
Analysis of the pattern of hair loss
Dermoscopy of the scalp: Variation in hair shaft diameter Follicular miniaturisation
Variation in hair shaft diameter
Follicular miniaturisation
Blood tests sometimes offered to women (deficiencies, hormonal disorders)
Differential diagnosis with: Telogen effluvium Alopecia areata Scarring alopecias
Telogen effluvium
Alopecia areata
Scarring alopecias

Treatments

Topical treatments that promote hair growth
Systemic treatments depending on sex and medical indication
Stimulating scalp injections
Follicle stimulation techniques
Medical devices that improve microcirculation
Correction of aggravating factors
Regular monitoring of progress
Early treatment recommended
slow down hair loss
stabilise progression
stimulate regrowth

Management

Personalised assessment according to age, sex and stage

Setting realistic goals

Long-term treatment with dermatological follow-up

Treatment adjusted according to response

Frequently asked questions

Consultation for androgenetic alopecia

Consultation with a confirmed diagnosis and a written treatment plan.

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