Stages of Hair Loss

Stage 1

No significant hair loss or recession of the hairline.

Stage 2

There is a slight recession of the hairline around the temples. This is also known as an adult or mature hairline.

Stage 3

The first signs of clinically significant balding appear. The hairline becomes deeply recessed at both temples, resembling an M, U, or V shape. The recessed spots are completely bare or sparsely covered in hair.

Stage 3 - Vertex

The hairline stays at stage 2, but there is significant hair loss on the top of the scalp (the vertex).

Stage 4

The hairline recession is more severe than in stage 3, and there is sparse hair or no hair on the vertex. The two areas of hair loss are separated by a band of hair that connects to the hair remaining on the sides of the scalp.

Stage 5

The two areas of hair loss are larger than in stage 4. They are still separated, but the band of hair between them is narrower and sparser.

Stage 6

The balding areas at the temples join with the balding area at the vertex. The band of hair across the top of the head is gone or sparse.

Stage 7

The most severe stage of hair loss, only a band of hair going around the sides of the head remains. This hair is usually not dense and may be fine.