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.