As you age, it’s natural to experience hair thinning or hair loss. However, for some people, hair loss may occur earlier than expected, leading to an early receding hairline. An early receding hairline is a common condition where the hairline starts to recede, leaving a more prominent forehead.
It can occur in both men and women and can be a cause of concern and sadly self-consciousness for those affected. Today, we take a look at the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for those suffering from a prematurely receding hairline to help you better understand the condition and how to manage it.
Causes Of Early Receding Hairline
Firstly, let’s take a quick look at the term ‘prematurely’. The word is, of course, relative, and receding hair can develop at any time after late puberty, for a whole variety of reasons. That said, balding before the mid 30s to early 40s may be considered ‘premature’ for many, though this is of course only an issue if it either points to an underlying condition, or if it’s causing a lack of confidence.
A prematurely receding hairline can be caused by several factors. Here are some of the common causes:
- Genetics: One of the primary causes of an early receding hairline is genetics. It’s common for hair loss to run in families, and if your parents or grandparents had an early receding hairline, you may also be at risk.
- Hormonal Imbalance: Hormonal imbalances can cause hair loss or thinning, including an early receding hairline. For example, men with high levels of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone that contributes to male characteristics, may be more prone to an early receding hairline.
- Age: As you age, your hair follicles may become less active, leading to hair thinning or loss. An early receding hairline can be a sign of premature aging or natural aging.
- Medication: Some medication can cause hair loss as a side effect. These medications include blood thinners, chemotherapy drugs, and some antidepressants.
- Stress: Stress can cause hair loss by disrupting the hair growth cycle. High levels of stress can lead to hair follicles entering a resting phase, causing hair loss or thinning.
- Poor Nutrition: A diet lacking essential vitamins and minerals can contribute to hair loss. Nutrients such as protein, iron, and vitamins A and D are essential for healthy hair growth.
Identifying the underlying cause of an early receding hairline is crucial in determining the appropriate treatment plan.
Symptoms Of Early Receding Hairline
An early receding hairline can be identified by a range of symptoms that can vary from person to person. These symptoms include thinning of the hairline, a widening forehead, and the formation of an “M” or “V” shaped hairline, which may sometimes be mistaken for a mature hairline in men. It’s important to note that a mature hairline is a natural process that occurs in men as they age, whereas a receding hairline is caused by hair loss.
A mature hairline typically occurs without any other symptoms of hair loss and may cause the hairline to recede slightly, while a receding hairline may result in excessive hair shedding, bald patches or spots on the scalp, and other symptoms. If you’re experiencing any of the above symptoms, it’s best to consult with a doctor to determine whether you have a mature hairline or a receding hairline and to identify the underlying cause of the hair loss.
Treatment Options For A Prematurely Receding Hairline
An early receding hairline can be treated with various options depending on the underlying cause of the hair loss. Here are some of the treatment options available to potentially stimulate hair growth or, at the very least, slow down its receding:
- Medication
Medication such as Minoxidil and Finasteride are commonly used to treat an early receding hairline. Minoxidil is a topical solution that promotes hair growth, while Finasteride is an oral medication that helps reduce DHT levels, which can contribute to hair loss.
- Hair Transplant Surgery
Hair transplant surgery involves taking hair follicles from the back of the head and transplanting them to the affected areas on the scalp. This procedure is typically used for individuals with severe hair loss and can provide long-lasting results. The average cost of a hair transplant in the UK can sit anywhere between £1’000 and £30’000, depending on the extent of the hair loss.
- Laser Therapy
Laser therapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses low-level laser light to stimulate hair growth. This treatment can be done at home or in a doctor’s office and is a safe and effective option for individuals with an early receding hairline.
- Scalp Micropigmentation
Scalp micro-pigmentation involves the use of tattooing techniques to create the appearance of hair on the scalp. People with a receding hairline or bald spots often use this treatment, which can give them results that look natural.
Natural Remedies & Lifestyle Changes
Some natural remedies, such as applying essential oils or taking supplements, may help promote hair growth. Changes to your lifestyle, like eating better, getting less stressed, and avoiding harsh hair treatments, can also help stop you from losing more hair.
If your hairline is receding early, you should talk to a doctor or a hair specialist to figure out the best way to treat your specific case.
Preventing Early Receding Hairline
Preventing an early receding hairline requires taking good care of your hair and scalp. Here are some preventive measures that you can take to keep your hair healthy and reduce the risk of hair loss:
- Maintaining a healthy lifestyle: A healthy lifestyle that includes a balanced diet, regular exercise, and good sleep habits can promote hair growth and reduce the risk of hair loss.
- Avoid harsh hair treatments: Chemical treatments such as hair dye, perms, and relaxers can cause damage to the hair and contribute to hair loss. It’s best to avoid these treatments or limit their use as much as possible.
- Protecting hair from heat and sun damage: Excessive heat from styling tools and exposure to the sun’s harmful rays can cause damage to the hair and scalp, leading to hair loss. It’s important to use protective hair products and wear a hat or scarf when exposed to the sun for an extended period.
- Regular hair care routine: A regular hair care routine that includes washing and conditioning your hair, using a wide-toothed comb, and avoiding tight hairstyles can help keep your hair healthy and prevent hair loss.
By taking these precautions, you can lower your chances of getting a receding hairline early and keep your hair healthy and strong. If you notice any strange changes in your hair or scalp, you should also see a doctor.
The Bottom Line
A hairline that starts to thin out too soon is a common problem that can happen to both men and women. It can be caused by things like genes, an imbalance in hormones, getting older, taking medications, being stressed out, or not eating well.
Symptoms of an early receding hairline include a thinning hairline, widening of the forehead, and the formation of an “M” or “V”-shaped hairline. For a hairline that is receding too quickly, you can take medicine, have hair transplant surgery, laser therapy, scalp micro pigmentation, use natural remedies, or make changes to your lifestyle.
Keeping a healthy lifestyle, avoiding harsh hair treatments, protecting hair from humidity, heat and sun damage, and taking care of your hair on a regular basis can help lower the risk of getting a receding hairline early. But you should see a doctor right away if you notice any strange changes in your hair or scalp.
A receding hairline should be found and treated as soon as possible to stop further hair loss and encourage hair growth. So, if you have any of the symptoms listed above, it’s best to talk to a doctor or a hair specialist to find out what’s going on and what the best way to treat it is. Remember, early intervention can help preserve your hair and restore your confidence.
*This article is not intended to replace medical advice, diagnosis or treatment given by a qualified health professional. Instead, this article only provides information, not advice. For any medical or dietary enquiries, always consult your GP first*