Hair Loss
Dr Afraz Adam
Chief Medical Officer
MBBS. FRNZCUC
Hair loss happens when hair thins or the hairline recedes, often at the crown or temples. In New Zealand, many men experience it at some point in their lives.
Overview
Understanding Hair Loss
Hair loss, or alopecia, is one of the most common health issues men face. And just like there are many men with hair loss, there are plenty of different types of hair loss too.
When most people think of hair loss, they picture the classic look, a bloke with a receding hairline and a bald patch on top. That’s male pattern baldness, and it’s by far the most common cause. But it’s not the only reason hair thins or falls out. Stress, nutrient gaps, thyroid problems, autoimmune conditions, and even certain medications can all play a part.
If you’re asking yourself, “Why is my hair thinning?” or “Is this permanent?”, the honest answer is: it depends. Some types of hair loss can be slowed, stopped, or even reversed if you start treatment early. Others can be permanent. The earlier you tackle it, the better the outcome.
Symptoms
Hair Symptoms
Sure, hair loss seems obvious — hair falling out. But it doesn’t always look the same. It can be gradual or sudden, and it can affect your scalp only or show up elsewhere on the body.
Typical symptoms in men include:
Receding hairline (the classic “M” shape)
Thinning at the crown
Patchy bald spots
General thinning all over the scalp
Other possible signs:
Excess shedding (on pillows, in the shower, in your brush)
Shorter, finer hairs replacing thick ones
- Itching, redness, or flaking of the scalp
Beyond the physical, hair loss can hit confidence hard. Many men report stress, low self-esteem, or even depression linked to their hair loss.
Causes
Causes of Hair Loss
Not all hair loss is created equal. The cause matters, because it guides the treatment.
Broadly, hair loss falls into two buckets: non-scarring alopecia (where follicles are still alive, so regrowth is possible) and scarring alopecia (where follicles are permanently damaged).
Non-Scarring Alopecia’s (the common ones)
Male Pattern Baldness (Androgenetic Alopecia): Driven by genetics and DHT. Hair follicles shrink (miniaturise) over time, producing thinner hairs until growth stops. The earlier you intervene, the more you can slow or even reverse it.
Telogen Effluvium: Sudden shedding triggered by stress, illness, surgery, big weight loss, or medication changes. Usually temporary if the trigger is removed.
Alopecia Areata: Autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks follicles, leading to patchy bald spots.
Traction Alopecia: Caused by constant pulling (tight braids, ponytails, etc.). Hats don’t cause this.
Vitamin Deficiencies: Low iron, zinc, vitamin D, or biotin can all weaken hair.
Trichotillomania: A compulsive hair-pulling habit, often stress-related.
Hair Loss Linked to Other Conditions
Thyroid disorders, psoriasis, syphilis, fungal infections (like scalp ringworm) and some chronic illnesses can all lead to thinning or bald patches.
Scarring Alopecia’s (less common, more serious)
Conditions like lichen planopilaris, discoid lupus, and frontal fibrosing alopecia can destroy follicles permanently. These often need specialist care.
Risk factors
Risk Factors for Hair Loss
Some things make you more likely to lose hair:
Genetics (family history on either side counts)
Age (more common as you get older)
Poor nutrition
Chronic stress
Certain hairstyles that strain the hair
Medications (blood pressure meds, chemo, antidepressants)
Sudden physical or emotional shocks (surgery, trauma, illness)
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of Erectile Dysfunction
Shedding 50–100 hairs a day is normal. But if you notice more than usual, changes in your hairline, or thinning at the crown, it’s worth getting checked.
Other reasons to see a doctor:
Sudden or patchy loss
Itching, burning, or scalp irritation
Nail or skin changes alongside hair loss
Hair loss after starting a new medication
Sometimes, mates or partners spot changes before you do. If someone points out your hair looks thinner, or old photos show a clear shift, it’s a good idea to get advice.
At Mr., you can sort this out easily — either through a telehealth consult or in person. If it looks straightforward (like male pattern baldness), treatment can start quickly. If it’s something more complex, we’ll get you to the right specialist.
Treatment
Treatment for Hair Loss
Here’s where things get practical. The right treatment depends on the type and the cause of your hair loss.
Medications:
Finasteride (blocks DHT, slowing or stopping male pattern baldness).
Minoxidil (topical treatment that boosts follicle activity).
Procedures:
PRP (platelet-rich plasma injections).
Microneedling to improve blood flow.
Hair transplants for advanced cases.
Lifestyle & Nutrition:
Protein-rich diet, plus supplements if you’re low in iron, zinc, or vitamin D.
Stress management and better sleep.
Camouflage & Styling:
- Hair fibres, shorter cuts, or beard growth to balance things out while treatment kicks in.