Male Pattern Baldness (Androgenic Alopecia) Quiz
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Loss of hair
Thinning and softening of the hair on my head
Receding hairline
Thinning hair
Thinning and softening of the hair on my scalp
Front part of the hairline is moving back
Losing hair
Not seeing your symptoms? No worries!
What is Male Pattern Baldness (Androgenic Alopecia)?
A common type of baldness that occurs with age. In males, the hairline recedes along with hair loss on the sides and top of the scalp. In females, the condition is characterized by the progressive loss of hairs over the frontal and top regions of the scalp, causing a visible reduction in hair density. The exact cause is unknown, but hormones and genetics play an important role.
Typical Symptoms of Male Pattern Baldness (Androgenic Alopecia)
- Hair loss
- Scalp hair has become thin and soft
- Receding hairline
- Area of bald skin with unclear edges
- Skin problems
Diagnostic Questions for Male Pattern Baldness (Androgenic Alopecia)
Your doctor may ask these questions to check for this disease:
- Are you experiencing increased hair loss?
- Is your head hair thin and soft?
- Is your hairline receding?
- Do you have an area of bald skin with unclear edges?
- Do you have any skin problems
Treatment of Male Pattern Baldness (Androgenic Alopecia)
Multiple treatments options are available for this chronic condition, from topicals applied directly to the scalp, oral medications, to hair transplant surgery and injections of platelet-rich-plasma (PRP).
Reviewed By:
Sarita Nori, MD (Dermatology)
Dr. Sarita Nori was drawn to dermatology because of the intersection of science and medicine that is at the heart of dermatology. She feels this is what really allows her to help her patients. “There is a lot of problem-solving in dermatology and I like that,” she explains. “It’s also a profession where you can help people quickly and really make a difference in their lives.” | Some of the typical skin problems that Dr. Nori treats include skin cancers, psoriasis, acne, eczema, rashes, and contact dermatitis. Dr Nori believes in using all possible avenues of treatment, such as biologics, especially in patients with chronic diseases such as eczema and psoriasis. “These medications can work superbly, and they are really life-changing for many patients.” | Dr. Nori feels it’s important for patients to have a good understanding of the disease or condition that is affecting them. “I like to educate my patients on their problem and have them really understand it so they can take the best course of action. Patients always do better when they understand their skin condition, and how to treat it.”
Yukiko Ueda, MD (Dermatology)
Dr. Ueda graduated from the Niigata University School of Medicine and trained at the University of Tokyo Medical School. She is currently a clinical assistant professor at the Department of Dermatology, Jichi Medical University, and holds several posts in the dermatology departments at Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Komagome Hospital, University of Tokyo, and the Medical Center of Japan Red Cross Society.
Content updated on Feb 19, 2025
Following the Medical Content Editorial Policy
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Male Pattern Baldness (Androgenic Alopecia)?
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People with similar symptoms also use Ubie's symptom checker to find possible causes
- Hair thinning
- Bald spots
- Scalp visible through hair
- Patchy hair loss
- Rashes
- Excessive hair shedding
- Before the hair loss, the scalp was itchy
- No new hair growth
- Hair breakage
- Scalp itch or discomfort, followed by hair falling out
- Leg rash
- Brittle hair
- Hair loss after an itchy scalp
- Balding
- Scalp showing in back of head
See full list
Symptoms Related to Male Pattern Baldness (Androgenic Alopecia)
Diseases Related to Male Pattern Baldness (Androgenic Alopecia)
FAQs
Q.
Can finasteride cause depression or anxiety?
A.
Finasteride may be linked to depression and anxiety in some people. If you have mental health concerns, visit https://988lifeline.org/.
References:
Pompili M, Magistri C, Maddalena S, Mellini C, Persechino S, & Baldessarini RJ. (2021). Risk of Depression Associated With Finasteride Treatment. Journal of clinical psychopharmacology, 33814544.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33814544/
Irwig MS. (2012). Depressive symptoms and suicidal thoughts among former .... The Journal of clinical psychiatry, 22939118.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22939118/
Traish AM. (2020). Post-finasteride syndrome: a surmountable challenge for .... Fertility and sterility, 32033719.
Q.
Can finasteride cause permanent sexual side effects?
A.
Some studies suggest that finasteride can cause lasting sexual side effects in some people, even after they stop taking it.
References:
Irwig MS. (2012). Persistent sexual side effects of finasteride: could they be .... The journal of sexual medicine, 22789024.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22789024/
Ganzer CA, Jacobs AR, & Iqbal F. (2015). Persistent sexual, emotional, and cognitive impairment .... American journal of men's health, 24928450.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24928450/
Traish AM. (2020). Post-finasteride syndrome: a surmountable challenge for .... Fertility and sterility, 32033719.
Q.
Can I still have kids if I’ve been on finasteride for years?
A.
Taking finasteride for a long time might affect your ability to have kids, but the effects can vary. It's best to talk to a doctor if you're worried about having kids while on this medication.
References:
Samplaski MK, Lo K, Grober E, & Jarvi K. (2013). Finasteride use in the male infertility population. Fertility and sterility, 24012200.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24012200/
Ricci G, Martinelli M, Luppi S, Lo Bello L, De Santis M, Skerk K, & Zito G. (2012). Finasteride and fertility: case report and review of the .... Journal of drugs in dermatology : JDD, 23377525.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23377525/
Iguer-Ouada M, & Verstegen JP. (1997). Effect of finasteride (Proscar MSD) on seminal composition, .... Journal of reproduction and fertility. Supplement, 9404280.
Q.
Can low-dose finasteride still cause side effects?
A.
Yes, even low-dose finasteride can cause side effects, including persistent sexual issues and mental health concerns.
References:
Irwig MS, & Kolukula S. (2011). Persistent sexual side effects of finasteride for male pattern .... The journal of sexual medicine, 21418145.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21418145/
Ali AK, Heran BS, & Etminan M. (2015). Persistent Sexual Dysfunction and Suicidal Ideation in .... Pharmacotherapy, 26133534.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26133534/
Irwig MS. (2012). Persistent sexual side effects of finasteride: could they be .... The journal of sexual medicine, 22789024.
Q.
Do I need to get my sperm tested if I’m on finasteride?
A.
Finasteride can affect sperm, so getting your sperm tested might be a good idea if you're concerned about fertility.
References:
Samplaski MK, Lo K, Grober E, & Jarvi K. (2013). Finasteride use in the male infertility population. Fertility and sterility, 24012200.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24012200/
Ricci G, Martinelli M, Luppi S, Lo Bello L, De Santis M, Skerk K, & Zito G. (2012). Finasteride and fertility: case report and review of the .... Journal of drugs in dermatology : JDD, 23377525.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23377525/
Trüeb RM, Luu NC, Gavazzoni Dias MFR, & Dutra Rezende H. (2022). How to Deal with the Issues of Fertility, Malignancies, and .... Skin appendage disorders, 35707289.
Q.
Does finasteride affect testosterone or make me less ‘manly’?
A.
Finasteride can affect testosterone levels, but it doesn’t make you less ‘manly’.
References:
Roehrborn CG, Lee M, Meehan A, Waldstreicher J, & PLESS Study Group. (2003). Effects of finasteride on serum testosterone and body mass .... Urology, 14624915.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14624915/
Jung JY, Yeon JH, Choi JW, Kwon SH, Kim BJ, Youn SW, et al. (2014). Effect of dutasteride 0.5 mg/d in men with androgenetic .... International journal of dermatology, 24898559.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24898559/
Kunelius P, Lukkarinen O, Hannuksela ML, Itkonen O, & Tapanainen JS. (2002). The effects of transdermal dihydrotestosterone in the aging .... The Journal of clinical endocrinology and metabolism, 11932266.
Q.
Does finasteride hide prostate cancer?
A.
Finasteride can affect prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels, which might make it harder to detect prostate cancer, but it does not hide the cancer itself.
References:
Etzioni RD, Howlader N, Shaw PA, Ankerst DP, Penson DF, Goodman PJ, & Thompson IM. (2005). Long-term effects of finasteride on prostate specific antigen .... The Journal of urology, 16093979.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16093979/
Oesterling JE, Roy J, Agha A, Shown T, Krarup T, Johansen T, et al. (1997). Biologic variability of prostate-specific antigen and its .... Urology, 9218012.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9218012/
Irani J. (2008). [PCPT trial: expected bias and their management]. Progres en urologie : journal de l'Association francaise d'urologie et de la Societe francaise d'urologie, 18455083.
Q.
How common are long-term side effects from finasteride?
A.
Long-term side effects from finasteride, like sexual issues, can happen and might not go away after stopping the medication.
References:
Irwig MS. (2012). Persistent sexual side effects of finasteride: could they be .... The journal of sexual medicine, 22789024.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22789024/
Irwig MS, & Kolukula S. (2011). Persistent sexual side effects of finasteride for male pattern .... The journal of sexual medicine, 21418145.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21418145/
Traish AM. (2020). Post-finasteride syndrome: a surmountable challenge for .... Fertility and sterility, 32033719.
Q.
How long after stopping finasteride will my sperm count go back to normal?
A.
After stopping finasteride, sperm count may return to normal, but the time it takes can vary for each person.
References:
Samplaski MK, Lo K, Grober E, & Jarvi K. (2013). Finasteride use in the male infertility population. Fertility and sterility, 24012200.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24012200/
Goktas S, Kibar Y, Kilic S, Topac H, Coban H, & Seckin B. (2006). Recovery of abnormal ejaculation by intermittent .... The Journal of urology, 16407016.
Q.
Is finasteride basically a male birth control pill?
A.
Finasteride is not a male birth control pill. It does not significantly affect sperm production or function.
References:
Kinniburgh D, Anderson RA, & Baird DT. (2001). Suppression of spermatogenesis with desogestrel and .... Journal of andrology, 11191092.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11191092/
McLachlan RI, McDonald J, Rushford D, Robertson DM, Garrett C, & Baker HW. (2000). Efficacy and acceptability of testosterone implants, alone or .... Contraception, 11102590.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11102590/
Overstreet JW, Fuh VL, Gould J, Howards SS, Lieber MM, Hellstrom W, et al. (1999). Chronic treatment with finasteride daily does not affect .... The Journal of urology, 10492183.
Q.
Is it possible finasteride lowered my libido without me noticing?
A.
Yes, finasteride can lower libido, and some people may not notice it right away.
References:
Rahimi-Ardabili B, Pourandarjani R, Habibollahi P, & Mualeki A. (2006). Finasteride induced depression: a prospective study - PMC. BMC Clinical Pharmacology, 1622749.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC1622749/
Sung HH, Yu J, Kang SJ, Chae MR, So I, Park JK, & Lee SW. (2018). Persistent Erectile Dysfunction after Discontinuation of 5- .... The World Journal of Men's Health, 6479083.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6479083/
Skolarus T, & Wei J. (2009). Measurement of benign prostatic hyperplasia treatment .... International journal of impotence research, 2862344.
Q.
Is there a safer alternative to finasteride for hair loss?
A.
Topical treatments like topical dutasteride and topical finasteride may offer safer alternatives to oral finasteride for hair loss, with potentially fewer side effects.
References:
Andrade JFM, Verbinnen A, Bakst A, Cunha-Filho M, Gelfuso GM, & Gratieri T. (2025). Topical dutasteride for androgenic alopecia: current state .... Therapeutic delivery, 39641480.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39641480/
Saceda-Corralo D, Domínguez-Santas M, Vañó-Galván S, & Grimalt R. (2023). What's New in Therapy for Male Androgenetic Alopecia?. American journal of clinical dermatology, 36169916.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36169916/
Gupta AK, & Talukder M. (2022). Topical finasteride for male and female pattern hair loss. Journal of cosmetic dermatology, 35238144.
Q.
Should I stop finasteride before a PSA test?
A.
Finasteride can lower PSA levels, so your doctor might adjust your PSA test results if you're taking it. You should talk to your doctor about whether to stop finasteride before the test.
References:
Etzioni RD, Howlader N, Shaw PA, Ankerst DP, Penson DF, Goodman PJ, & Thompson IM. (2005). Long-term effects of finasteride on prostate specific antigen .... The Journal of urology, 16093979.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16093979/
D'Amico AV, & Roehrborn CG. (2007). Effect of 1 mg/day finasteride on concentrations of serum .... The Lancet. Oncology, 17196507.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17196507/
Guess HA, Gormley GJ, Stoner E, & Oesterling JE. (1996). The effect of finasteride on prostate specific antigen. The Journal of urology, 7490873.
Q.
What does it mean if my semen volume is much lower?
A.
Lower semen volume can be related to medication use, such as finasteride, or issues with ejaculation. It's important to talk to a doctor if you notice changes.
References:
Samplaski MK, Lo K, Grober E, & Jarvi K. (2013). Finasteride use in the male infertility population. Fertility and sterility, 24012200.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24012200/
Goktas S, Kibar Y, Kilic S, Topac H, Coban H, & Seckin B. (2006). Recovery of abnormal ejaculation by intermittent .... The Journal of urology, 16407016.
Q.
What’s the difference between finasteride and minoxidil pills?
A.
Finasteride and minoxidil pills are both used for hair loss, but they work differently. Finasteride blocks hormones that cause hair loss, while minoxidil helps to grow hair by improving blood flow.
References:
Gupta AK, Talukder M, & Williams G. (2022). Comparison of oral minoxidil, finasteride, and dutasteride .... The Journal of dermatological treatment, 35920739.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35920739/
Fazal F, Malik BH, Mumtaz Malik H, Sabir B, Mustafa H, Ahmed M, et al. (2025). Can oral minoxidil be the game changer in androgenetic .... Skin health and disease, 40365252.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40365252/
Saceda-Corralo D, Domínguez-Santas M, Vañó-Galván S, & Grimalt R. (2023). What's New in Therapy for Male Androgenetic Alopecia?. American journal of clinical dermatology, 36169916.
Q.
Will finasteride make me infertile even if I stop taking it?
A.
Finasteride may affect fertility while taking it, but stopping the medication often reverses these effects.
References:
Samplaski MK, Lo K, Grober E, & Jarvi K. (2013). Finasteride use in the male infertility population. Fertility and sterility, 24012200.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24012200/
Ricci G, Martinelli M, Luppi S, Lo Bello L, De Santis M, Skerk K, & Zito G. (2012). Finasteride and fertility: case report and review of the .... Journal of drugs in dermatology : JDD, 23377525.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23377525/
Tu HY, & Zini A. (2011). Finasteride-induced secondary infertility associated with .... Fertility and sterility, 21292254.
Q.
Will stopping finasteride cause me to go bald quickly?
A.
Stopping finasteride may lead to the return of hair loss, as the medication's effects are not permanent.
References:
McClellan KJ, & Markham A. (1999). Finasteride: a review of its use in male pattern hair loss. Drugs, 9951956.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9951956/
Kaufman KD, Olsen EA, Whiting D, Savin R, DeVillez R, Bergfeld W, et al. (1998). Finasteride in the treatment of men with androgenetic .... Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 9777765.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9777765/
Whiting DA, Olsen EA, Savin R, Halper L, Rodgers A, Wang L, et al. (2003). Efficacy and tolerability of finasteride 1 mg in men aged 41 .... European journal of dermatology : EJD, 12695131.
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https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29178529/Bajoria PS, Dave PA, Rohit RK, Tibrewal C, Modi NS, Gandhi SK, Patel P (Year). Comparing Current Therapeutic Modalities of Androgenic Alopecia: A Literature Review of Clinical Trials. Cureus.
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