HAIR LOSS IS A PROBLEM FOR

MEN AND WOMEN

Scientific studies have shown that hair loss can create loss of self-esteem and decrease job performance.

*Not an actual Cooley Hair Center patient.

Hair Loss Chart

In order to classify the severity of hair loss, doctors created a series of charts categorizing various stages of hair loss. The charts are very useful when describing your hair loss to someone or as a yardstick to measure your own hair loss progression or regrowth. The charts are only relevant to Male and Female Pattern hair loss since the hair loss occurs in a predictable pattern.

THE NORWOOD-HAMILTON SCALE

The most commonly used chart to measure the extent of male pattern hair loss is the Norwood-Hamilton Scale. The Norwood-Hamilton Scale was developed by Dr. James Hamilton and then later modified by Dr. o’Tar Norwood. Men tend to lose their hair in a few common patterns over the development of many decades. The Hamilton-Norwood scale provides quick reference images that show distinct stages of balding. The extent of balding helps doctors identify the most treatment options and measure the progress of the treatment.

Regions of the Scalp

STAGES OF HAIR LOSS IN MEN

Stage 1

Full head of hair, with little to no signs of baldness or a receding hairline

Stage 2

Slight evidence of a receding hairline typically around the temples

Stage 3

Hair loss becomes more noticeable. The hairline produces a curved “M” shape as it pulls backward from the temples

Stage 3

Vertex balding may occur as hair on the vertex gets thinner. This often starts as one small bald spot.

Stage 4

The hairline recedes farther and may result in a “U” shape when viewed from above. The bald spot on the crown becomes large.

Stage 5

Shows similar progression to stage 4 but is more severe. The small section of hair between the receding hairline and the balding crown gets even thinner. The hairline continues to progress toward the back of the head.

Stage 6

Patient is now mostly bald on the front and top of his head. The two bald areas now join together, and the strip or patch of hair between them goes away.

Stage 7

The most severe stage of hair loss, only a band of hair going around the sides of the head remains

START YOUR HAIR RESTORATION JOURNEY WITH DR. COOLEY

If you’re struggling with hair loss and want to know your treatment options, schedule a consultation with our hair specialist Dr. Cooley at the Hair Center in Charlotte, NC. Start your journey to hair confidence today.