Male pattern baldness may be common, but this doesn’t detract from how it can make those experiencing it feel. With endless remedies promising miracle cures, it can be a minefield for men experiencing this type of hair loss – and over time, struggles to find a cure or hide what’s happening can chip away at people’s confidence.

Fortunately, there are some steps you can that could help you on your personal journey. Here’s what you need to know about the impacts of male pattern baldness.

How many people are affected by male pattern baldness?

There are many different types of hair loss, from telogen effluvium to alopecia areata. However, male pattern baldness is the most common type of hair loss, affecting 6.5 million men in the UK. Symptoms include visible thinning of the hair, as well as more scalp becoming visible over time.

Despite it being common, many men, especially those who experience this as a younger man, can find the process distressing to the extent that it knocks their confidence.

The impacts male pattern baldness can have

The way in which hair loss physically changes your appearance means that many men feel self-conscious once they notice signs of male pattern baldness. It might be that the hairline starts receding or that the area around the temples appears thinner – either way, it’s important to acknowledge that you’re not alone in feeling self-conscious and that there are ways to address this.

How can men help to tackle male pattern baldness?

Fortunately, there are several ways to tackle hair loss. Many men decide to shave their hair to take control of their hair loss before it takes control of them. It can help you feel as though you have the upper hand and that you are taking action before it completely consumes you.

However, if you’re not quite ready to let go, you can consider cost-effective options such as hair fibers to help fill in balding patches or spend a little more on bespoke wigs if they make you feel more comfortable. Other options include Finasteride and Minoxidil, as recommended by the NHS, however you should speak about potential side effects with your doctor first. Some men seek more costly solutions such as hair transplants, though again, this should ideally be considered on a completely personal basis after professional consultations.

Hair loss and mental health

Remember, you can also seek emotional help if you’re struggling with male pattern baldness. Many individuals can suffer from poor mental health if they experience hair loss. It’s important to address this before things spiral further. Speaking to someone can help you reshape how you view yourself and ultimately aid your confidence levels. This could be with friends and family or a professional counsellor.