The Differences between Male and Female Pattern Baldness

differences between male and female pattern baldness

Pattern baldness is hereditary for both women and men. It is called androgenic alopecia in both cases.

Anyone can develop androgenic alopecia. A family history of hair loss is a good indicator of this happening. Some hormone issues can cause it as well. This problem is not reversible, but with some lifestyle changes, you may be able to stop it from spreading.

But what are the main differences between male and female pattern baldness?

Men Are Likelier to Visibly Start Losing Hair

Apparently, hair loss is more common for men. Experts say that more than half of men over 50 have to deal with pattern baldness.

Androgens, or male sex hormones, cause body hair to grow, and the hair on your head to fall out. As a result, male pattern baldness is usually more intense and more visible. Women who have a high level of androgens may deal with this problem as well. For both men and women, hormone imbalances can have a huge influence on the rate of hair loss.

Female Pattern Baldness Starts at the Part Line

Female pattern baldness is a thinning of hair that covers a woman’s whole head. It starts at the top of the scalp, by the part line. As it progresses, it may leave a bald line on top of the head. Many women choose to cover this up with the right hairstyle.

Male Pattern Baldness Starts at the Front of the Head

For men, hair loss is more concentrated. Some men have a receding hair line, which means that their hair loss starts at the forehead. For others, it starts as a single bald spot on the crown.

In Rare Cases, Women Can Have Male Pattern Baldness or Vice Versa

Because of hormone imbalances or genetic factors, a small percentage of women do develop male pattern baldness, e.g. a receding hairline. If this happens to you, you should consult an expert. Some men do not notice if they have female pattern baldness, but that requires treatment as well.


Ultimately, the major differences between male and female pattern baldness lie in the rate and the shape of hair loss. Men usually have bald spots or a receding hairline. Women usually have thinning hair, especially by the part line.