Estimate your hair-loss stage

The Norwood-Hamilton scale is the standard way clinicians describe male-pattern hair loss, from an intact hairline through temple recession, crown thinning, and more advanced patterns.¹ It is normally assigned by looking at the scalp, so the tool above is an estimate from a few self-reported questions, not a clinical stage.

Male-pattern hair loss is driven largely by genetics and by the effect of dihydrotestosterone (DHT) on hair follicles over time. It tends to be gradual, which is why catching it early gives the most options.

Two treatments have the strongest evidence for male-pattern hair loss: topical minoxidil and oral or topical finasteride. Both work best at maintaining and partly restoring hair while follicles are still active, and both need to be continued to keep their effect.² Results vary from person to person, and finasteride is a prescription medication that a clinician should review with you because it has potential side effects.

Not all thinning is male-pattern hair loss. Thyroid disorders, iron deficiency, certain medications, stress-related shedding, and other scalp conditions can cause hair loss that looks similar but is treated very differently, so a clinician evaluation matters when the pattern is unclear or the loss is sudden.

This tool does not assign a clinical Norwood stage, diagnose the cause of hair loss, or determine which treatment is right for you. It is a rough self-estimate to help you decide whether to talk with a clinician. A licensed physician examines your scalp, considers other causes, and discusses evidence-based options. Individual results vary.