Among the many biological occurrences that manifest differently for men and women, one that is especially different is cycles of hair loss. The idea of male pattern hair loss (MPHL) is widely known and often discussed. But just as there are measurable configurations of male baldness, there exist patterns for hair loss in women as well. In fact, over 55% of women experience some measure of hair loss throughout their lives.

Hamilton and Norwood developed a scale for measuring male hair loss (developed by Hamilton in the 1950s then updated by Norwood in the 1970s). In 1977 Ludwig developed a similar scale for female pattern baldness.

Though there are other scales for both MPHL and female pattern hair loss (FPHL), these two are the most popular among practitioners and researchers when attempting to classify hair loss.

The Hamilton-Norwood scale: The Hamilton-Norwood scale has seven types of classifications and several stages within those classifications. For example, within stage 5 there are 3 levels of progression including 5, 5A, and 5V, which show variations on a receding hairline with hair loss also in the crown of a man’s head.

Androgenetic alopecia, or MPHL, can begin for some men even in their teens and continue on throughout their life. The rate and onset of androgenetic alopecia are highly individualized. However, it is widely accepted that there are biological determinants for hair loss, and the best indicator of a man’s potential for hair loss is in his family history.

The Ludwig scale: The Ludwig scale has three primary classifications that display thinning hair, diffuse hair loss, as well as frontal hairline recession. Each image in the scale displays a woman’s head with her hair parted down the middle. As an example, images I-1 through I-4 show the progression as a woman goes from no hair loss to increasingly thinning hair as indicated by a widening part. Further along in the scale, the hair loss becomes increasingly drastic.

As compared to male pattern baldness, FPHL is not as wildly expected or accepted in society. Thus, women affected by androgenetic alopecia can experience emotional and psychological distress over their condition. This scale helps to normalize their condition and provide a point from which to discuss treatment with professionals in the field of hair restoration, dermatology, and other medical professions.

The comparison: The same process of minimizing the hair follicles and development of terminal follicles is present for both male and female pattern hair loss. Many, but not all, treatment options are comparable for men and women including medications that contain androgen enhancers, hair replacement accessories, and surgical options.

Though there are similarities between male pattern hair loss (MPHL) and female androgenic alopecia the primary differences are that women tend toward early detection and thus early treatment. Males on the other hand have a higher rate of progression and an earlier average age of onset. There is a lower percentage of women affected by female pattern hair loss (FPHL) compared to the percentage of men affected; and finally, the patterns themselves are different as displayed in the two scales.

Research continues to be performed on both male and female and androgenic alopecia. For now, the best way to combat hair thinning is through early detection. In both cases, treatment options are more effective and available when you begin early. Is it best to consult your physician on which treatment options might be best for you?

You can also contact a hair care expert in your area to learn about hairpieces, hair transplants, and treatments that can help stimulate hair growth as you navigate these difficult waters. A hair expert will help you determine the type of hair loss you have and can offer solutions that can treat hair loss.

References:

Dinh QU and Sinclair R. “Female pattern hair loss: Current treatment concepts”. Dove Medical Press Limited, 2007 Jun, 2(2): 189-199

Camacho FM, Garcia-Hernandez MJ, Fernandez-Crehuet JL. “Value of hormonal levels in patients with male androgenetic alopecia treated with finasteride: better response in patients under 26 years old”. British Journal of Dermatology. 2008 May;158(5):1121-4.