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The inherited tendency for follicles to be sensitive to DHT, which determines who develops pattern hair loss and roughly how extensive it becomes. It is po
Key termsDHT (dihydrotestosterone)
The inherited tendency for follicles to be sensitive to DHT, which determines who develops pattern hair loss and roughly how extensive it becomes. It is polygenic — many genes from both parents — so family history on either side hints at risk, but timing and severity still vary and treatment can change the course.
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Not medical advice. General education only; it does not replace diagnosis or treatment by a licensed professional. Consult a board-certified dermatologist before starting, stopping or changing any treatment.
⚠️ When to see a doctor — don’t self-treat
- Sudden patchy or circular bald spots
- Redness, scaling, pus, pain or itch (possible scarring alopecia — treat urgently)
- Broken hairs or rapid loss
- Loss with body-wide signs (weight loss, fatigue, cycle changes, acne, extra hair)
- Loss right after a new medication
- Any hair loss in a child