Are you starting to notice your hairline receding or more strands falling out than usual? You’re not alone. Hair loss is incredibly common—especially for men —and it often sparks questions like:
When does balding start? Why am I losing my hair? Is it reversible?
In this guide, we’ll cover what causes baldness, the different types of hair loss, and proven hair growth treatments—including laser hair growth red light therapy—to help you take action early and effectively.
What Causes Baldness?
The leading cause of baldness in men is androgenetic alopecia, also known as male pattern baldness. According to the American Hair Loss Association, it accounts for over 95% of all hair loss in men.
This condition is genetic and triggered by a sensitivity to DHT (dihydrotestosterone), a byproduct of testosterone. Over time, DHT causes hair follicles to shrink, shortens the hair growth cycle, and eventually stop producing new hair.
How Does Male Pattern Baldness Start?
Male pattern baldness typically progresses in two common patterns:
In advanced stages, these patterns merge, leaving a horseshoe-shaped hair ring around the sides and back of the scalp.
When Does Balding Usually Start?
Hair loss can begin surprisingly early. Here’s a breakdown by age:
While the onset and speed of balding vary, acting early is key to preserving existing hair.
Other Causes of Hair Loss
While male pattern baldness is the most common culprit, other factors can trigger hair loss:
An autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks healthy hair follicles. Hair falls out in patches and may affect the scalp, eyebrows, beard, or eyelashes.
Sudden, temporary hair shedding caused by stress, illness, surgery, or weight loss. Hair typically regrows in 2–6 months.
Lack of iron, protein, vitamin D, or other essential nutrients can affect hair growth and cause shedding.
Prescription drugs like chemotherapy agents, blood thinners, antidepressants, and acne treatments may lead to temporary hair loss. Once the medication is stopped, hair often regrows.
Effective Treatments for Hair Loss and Baldness
Fortunately, there are several clinically proven options for promoting hair growth and slowing the progression of baldness:
Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) / Red Light Therapy
Devices like Hairmax Laser Caps, Laser Bands and Laser Combs use medical-grade red light lasers to stimulate hair follicles and boost natural hair growth.
Benefits of Laser Hair Growth Devices:
Hairmax laser hair growth therapy is clinically proven to treat pattern hair loss and help reverse thinning. Early treatment can help avoid more invasive options like surgery.
Medications
Hair Transplant Surgery
Pros and Cons of Proven Hair Growth Treatments
Topical & Oral Medications:
Pros: Clinically Proven, effective with consistent use
Cons: Potential side effects, must be used indefinitely
Laser Hair Growth Therapy:
Pros: Drug-free, safe, Clinically Proven, non-invasive
Cons: Higher upfront cost, but cost-effective over time, requires consistency
How to Help Prevent Hair Loss Before It Starts
While you can’t change your genetics, you can take action to maintain healthier hair longer:
Baldness can be a frustrating experience—but it doesn’t have to be permanent. Whether you’re dealing with early signs of thinning or more advanced hair loss, there are clinically tested ways to stimulate hair growth and reclaim your confidence.
From laser hair growth solutions and red light therapy to medications and hair transplants, the earlier you act, the better your results will be.
Ready to take the first step?
Explore Hairmax Laser Devices: Clinically Proven, drug-free, and backed by science to regrow your hair naturally.