Why would the front part of the hair be thinning?

Thinning at the front of the hair is often caused by Frontal Fibrosing Alopecia (FFA), a form of scarring hair loss that gradually pushes back the hairline. FFA most commonly affects postmenopausal women, but it can occur in men and younger women too. Early signs include a receding frontal hairline, loss of eyebrows, and small bumps or redness around hair follicles. Because FFA is progressive and can cause permanent damage if untreated, early identification is key.

Other conditions—like traction alopecia, androgenetic alopecia, or telogen effluvium—can also cause frontal thinning, so getting clarity on the underlying cause matters. A free, instant, online symptom check can help you narrow down likely causes based on your specific symptoms, guide you toward the right type of specialist, and save you time before your next appointment. It only takes a few minutes and could be the fastest step toward protecting your hair.

Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/15/2026