Understanding the stages of hair loss or baldness is vital for accurate diagnosis and treatment. Here, we’ll look at the many stages of baldness, from the first indications to more mature patterns. Whether one is experiencing hair loss or looking for advanced hair loss treatment in South Delhi, this guide will provide useful insights and information.
The Norwood Scale is a Classification Tool.
The Norwood Scale, or the Hamilton-Norwood Scale, is commonly used to assess the severity of male pattern baldness. It has seven phases that represent varying degrees of baldness. Doctors may use this scale to diagnose the severity of baldness, discuss treatment choices, and track treatment efficacy over time.
The Seven Stages of Baldness
Stage 1
Individuals in stage 1 have a full head of hair and show no baldness or receding hairline symptoms. There is no noticeable hair loss at this stage, and the hairline is still intact.
Stage 2
There is only minor evidence of a receding hairline, mainly around the temples.
Stage 3
This is the first evidence of clinically severe baldness. The hairline begins to recede significantly at both temples, giving an M, U, or V shape. Areas of recession may be entirely naked or sparsely covered with hair.
Stage 3 Vertex
Stage 3 vertex is a version of stage 3, with the hairline remaining at stage 2. However, substantial hair loss occurs on the top of the scalp (vertex), which causes a more visible thinning or bald area on the crown of the head.
Stage 4
Substantial hair loss occurs in stage four. The hairline recedes farther and may begin to resemble a “U” shape when viewed from above.
The bald area on the crown has grown larger, although there is still a strip of hair between it and the receding hairline.
Stage 5
Stage 5 is more severe. There is still little hair between the receding hairline and the balding crown. However, this strip of hair is significantly thinner than in the preceding stage.
Stage 6
Baldness is predominantly balding on the front and top of the head. The two bald patches have now joined together, with no hair strip or patch in between. The sides of the head may still have hair, but the crown and front are mostly bald.
Stage 7
By stage 7, the baldness spreads to the sides of the head, leaving only a thin ring of hair around the exterior of the skull. The hair that grows will most likely be thin and fragile.
Those with hair loss or baldness can book a consultation at Soul Derma Clinic. Here, the best dermatologist in South Delhi, Dr. Anika Goel, provides effective hair loss treatments. These include medications, laser therapy, GFC, and hair transplants. To learn more, pay a visit now!
