Hair loss is one of the most common health concerns affecting men of all ages. While genetics often gets the blame, hormones play a central role in many cases of male hair thinning and baldness. Understanding the hormonal causes of hair loss in men can help identify effective treatments and prevent further progression. At First Point MD, our goal is to help patients uncover the root cause of hair loss and develop personalized treatment plans that support long-term scalp and overall health.
This article explores how hormones influence hair growth, the most common hormonal conditions linked to hair loss in men, and the medical treatments available today.
How Hair Growth Works: A Hormonal Perspective
Hair grows in a continuous cycle consisting of three phases:
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Anagen (growth phase): Hair actively grows from the follicle
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Catagen (transition phase): Growth slows and the follicle shrinks
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Telogen (resting phase): Hair sheds and the cycle restarts
Hormones regulate each stage of this cycle. When hormonal levels become imbalanced, hair follicles may shrink, growth phases shorten, and shedding increases. Over time, this leads to noticeable thinning or bald patches.
Dihydrotestosterone (DHT): The Primary Hormonal Cause of Male Hair Loss
The most well-known hormonal cause of hair loss in men is dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT is a byproduct of testosterone created by the enzyme 5-alpha reductase.
How DHT Affects Hair Follicles
In genetically susceptible men, DHT binds to hair follicles on the scalp and gradually causes them to shrink. This process, known as follicular miniaturization, leads to:
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Thinner hair strands
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Slower regrowth
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Shortened growth cycles
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Eventual follicle dormancy
This condition is called androgenetic alopecia, or male pattern baldness. It typically begins with a receding hairline or thinning at the crown and progresses over time.
Testosterone Imbalance and Hair Loss
While testosterone itself does not directly cause hair loss, abnormal levels can contribute indirectly.
Low Testosterone
Low testosterone levels may disrupt the hair growth cycle, leading to increased shedding and slower regrowth. Men with low testosterone may also experience:
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Fatigue
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Reduced muscle mass
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Decreased libido
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Mood changes
Hair loss associated with low testosterone is often diffuse rather than pattern-specific.
High Testosterone Conversion to DHT
Men with normal or high testosterone but elevated DHT levels are at higher risk for male pattern hair loss. The issue lies not in testosterone quantity, but in how efficiently it converts to DHT.
Thyroid Hormones and Hair Loss in Men
The thyroid gland regulates metabolism, energy production, and cell growth—including hair follicle activity. Both hypothyroidism (low thyroid hormone) and hyperthyroidism (high thyroid hormone) can cause hair loss.
Signs of Thyroid-Related Hair Loss
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Diffuse thinning across the scalp
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Brittle or dry hair
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Hair loss from eyebrows or body
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Fatigue and weight changes
Thyroid-related hair loss is usually reversible once hormone levels are properly managed.
Cortisol and Stress-Related Hair Loss
Cortisol is the body’s primary stress hormone. Chronic stress leads to sustained cortisol elevation, which can disrupt normal hair growth cycles.
How Cortisol Impacts Hair
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Pushes hair follicles into the telogen (shedding) phase
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Reduces nutrient delivery to follicles
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Increases inflammation around hair roots
This often results in telogen effluvium, a form of temporary hair loss that causes excessive shedding weeks or months after stress exposure.
Insulin Resistance and Hormonal Hair Loss
Insulin plays a role in regulating other hormones, including testosterone. When insulin resistance develops, hormone balance may be disrupted.
Hair Loss and Metabolic Health
Men with insulin resistance or prediabetes may experience:
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Increased inflammation
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Elevated androgen activity
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Poor circulation to the scalp
Addressing metabolic health can improve both hair growth and overall wellness.
Diagnosing Hormonal Hair Loss at First Point MD
Accurate diagnosis is critical for effective treatment. At First Point MD, evaluation begins with a detailed medical history and physical exam.
Diagnostic Testing May Include
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Testosterone and DHT levels
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Thyroid function tests (TSH, T3, T4)
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Cortisol levels
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Blood glucose and insulin markers
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Vitamin and nutrient screening
Identifying the underlying hormonal imbalance allows for targeted, evidence-based treatment.
Medical Treatments for Hormonal Hair Loss in Men
Modern medicine offers several effective treatment options depending on the hormonal cause and severity of hair loss.
DHT-Blocking Medications
Prescription medications such as finasteride reduce the conversion of testosterone to DHT. This helps slow hair loss and, in some cases, promotes regrowth.
Benefits include:
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Reduced follicle shrinkage
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Preservation of existing hair
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Improved hair density over time
Topical Treatments
Topical solutions may help stimulate hair follicles and extend the growth phase. These treatments are often used alongside oral medications for better results.
Hormone Optimization Therapy
For men with clinically low testosterone, carefully supervised hormone therapy may be considered. Restoring balanced hormone levels can improve:
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Hair thickness
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Energy levels
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Mood and focus
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Overall quality of life
Hormone therapy is only recommended after thorough evaluation and ongoing monitoring.
Treating Thyroid-Related Hair Loss
Hair loss caused by thyroid disorders is typically reversible. Treatment focuses on stabilizing thyroid hormone levels using medication and regular lab monitoring.
Once levels normalize, hair growth usually resumes within several months.
Lifestyle-Based Support for Hormonal Hair Health
Medical treatment works best when paired with healthy lifestyle habits.
Key Lifestyle Recommendations
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Manage stress through exercise, mindfulness, or therapy
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Maintain a balanced diet rich in protein, iron, and zinc
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Get adequate sleep
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Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol use
These steps support hormone regulation and scalp circulation.
When to See a Doctor for Hair Loss
Men should seek medical evaluation if hair loss is:
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Rapid or sudden
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Accompanied by fatigue, weight changes, or mood symptoms
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Occurring at a young age
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Diffuse rather than pattern-based
Early intervention leads to better outcomes.
Why Choose First Point MD for Hair Loss Treatment
At First Point MD, we take a whole-person approach to hair loss. Rather than treating symptoms alone, we focus on identifying hormonal imbalances and addressing the root cause.
Our care includes:
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Comprehensive hormonal testing
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Personalized treatment plans
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Ongoing monitoring and support
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Evidence-based medical therapies
Conclusion
Hormonal causes of hair loss in men are common, complex, and often treatable. From DHT sensitivity and thyroid disorders to stress-related hormone imbalance, identifying the underlying issue is the key to effective management.
With early diagnosis and personalized care from First Point MD, many men can slow hair loss, preserve existing hair, and restore confidence. If you’re experiencing hair thinning or unexplained shedding, professional evaluation can make a meaningful difference—not just for your hair, but for your overall health.