The most common type of hair loss in men, male-pattern baldness, is characterized by a receding hairline that begins as an M-shape that, depending on the man, can eventually meet up with a balding crown until a U-shaped pattern of hair is all that's left around the head. For many men, a receding hairline is a blow to self-esteem and can cause anxiety but fortunately there are some solutions.
Minoxiidil
Minoxidil is the most common treatment for a receding hairline. Sold under the brand names Rogaine or Headway, minoxidil is a topical solution that enlarges shrinking hair follicles and lengthens hair. It is also believed to extend the growth phase of hair, allowing the hairs to become longer before they fall out. If effective, new hair growth should appear within three to four months. If treatment is stopped, however, hair will return to its original state in about three months.
Finasteride
Finasteride, more commonly known by its brand-names Propecia or Proscar, is a once-a-day prescription tablet used to treat male-pattern baldness. Finasteride is a steroid compound that blocks the production of dihydrotestosterone, which, in turn, prevents the shrinkage of hair follicles and allows them to grow normally.
As with minoxidil, finasteride must be used for three to four months before results are known and, also like minoxidil, once the treatment is stopped, hair loss resumes as normal.
Tretinoin
The vitamin A acid tretinoin, marketed as Retin-A, is especially useful to regrow hair when used in combination with minoxidil. Treinoin is also used to treat acne and other skin conditions and has side effects than may include blisters and discolorations on the skin as well as sensitivity to light.
Hair Transplants
A more permanent solution for a receding hairline is hair transplants. Tiny "plugs" of hair are removed from areas on the head where hair is growing normally and placed in balding areas. Risks can include skin infections and scarring but the results are generally better, although more expensive, than other treatments.
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