Male vs Female Hair Loss: What’s the Difference?

Hair loss is a concern shared by millions of adults, but how it presents—and what causes it—can vary significantly between men and women. Understanding these differences is key to selecting the right treatment approach. In this post, we’ll explore the patterns, causes, and progression of hair thinning in men and women, and explain how innovative options like platelet-rich plasma therapy for hair loss can support healthy regrowth and improve scalp health.

Hair Loss in Men: Patterns and Causes

Androgenetic Alopecia (Male Pattern Baldness)

In men, the most common cause of hair loss is androgenetic alopecia, also known as male pattern baldness. This condition is hereditary and typically begins with a receding hairline and thinning at the crown. Over time, it may progress to complete baldness in certain areas.

Role of DHT and Hormones

Dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone derived from testosterone, plays a significant role in shrinking hair follicles. Men genetically sensitive to DHT experience faster follicular miniaturization, leading to progressive thinning. According to the Mayo Clinic, this process is responsible for the vast majority of male hair loss cases.

Hair Loss in Women: Diffuse Thinning and Triggers

Female Pattern Hair Loss

Women also experience androgenetic alopecia, but it usually presents differently. Instead of receding hairlines or bald spots, women tend to have diffuse thinning across the scalp, especially at the crown or parting line. Total baldness is rare.

Hormonal and Medical Influences

Hormonal fluctuations from menopause, pregnancy, or thyroid conditions often trigger hair loss in women. Chronic stress, iron deficiency, and polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) are also contributing factors. Unlike men, where DHT is usually the primary culprit, female hair loss is more multifactorial and often harder to diagnose.

A study published by the National Institutes of Health confirms the broad variability in female hair loss causes, underlining the importance of medical evaluation.

Comparing Male and Female Hair Loss Patterns

Aspect	Male Hair Loss	Female Hair Loss
Typical Pattern	Receding hairline, crown thinning	Diffuse thinning, wider part
Common Cause	Genetic (DHT sensitivity)	Hormonal, nutritional, stress-related
Age of Onset	As early as late teens or 20s	Often starts in 30s–50s
Progression	Predictable pattern; may lead to baldness	Slower progression; usually no complete baldness

Why Scalp Health Matters in Hair Loss Treatment

Hair follicles thrive in a healthy environment. Scalp health treatments that reduce inflammation, improve circulation, and correct imbalances can enhance any hair restoration protocol. Issues like seborrheic dermatitis, buildup, or microinflammation can all weaken follicles over time.

Maintaining a healthy scalp isn’t just cosmetic—it’s foundational for successful hair regrowth, especially when combined with advanced therapies like PRP or PRF.

Platelet-Rich Plasma Therapy for Hair Loss: A Shared Solution

What is PRP Therapy?

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy is a non-surgical, regenerative treatment that uses a small sample of the patient’s own blood. After centrifugation, the concentrated platelets—rich in growth factors—are injected directly into thinning areas of the scalp. These growth factors help repair tissue, reduce inflammation, and stimulate dormant follicles.

Equally Effective for Men and Women

Whether you’re dealing with male pattern baldness or female hair thinning, PRP therapy offers real benefits. It:

Improves blood flow to the scalp
Encourages thicker hair shafts
Reactivates follicle growth cycles

It’s especially useful in early to moderate stages of hair loss, when follicles are weakened but still active.

Introducing PRF: A Next-Level Option

Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF) is a more advanced form of PRP that also contains fibrin, white blood cells, and stem cells. This combination allows for slower, longer-lasting release of growth factors, enhancing results for many patients. Both therapies support natural regrowth and restore scalp vitality—without medication or surgery.

At Cosmed HairSkin Solutions, we tailor these regenerative treatments to each patient’s specific pattern, goals, and underlying scalp health.

Conclusion: Understanding Is the First Step Toward Regrowth

Male and female hair loss may share some causes, but their patterns and treatment approaches can differ significantly. That’s why it’s critical to choose a clinic that understands the unique needs of each gender and offers custom treatment plans backed by science.

At Cosmed HairSkin Solutions, we specialise in platelet-rich plasma therapy for hair loss, PRF, and scalp health treatments designed to restore confidence and promote sustainable results. Book a consultation today and discover the personalised approach that’s right for you.