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Overview
Very common in men and women.
Treatments work best early.
When to get medical care
Call 911Not an emergency.
Get care todayNot usually urgent.
See a doctor soonSudden or patchy hair loss.
Causes
Caused by genetics and hormones.
OwieClear has pages on 1 condition that can cause thinning on top or a receding hairline. Each shows how soon to get care.
Common causes
- Pattern hair loss (male or female pattern)Often treated at home
Gradual thinning on the top of the head or a receding hairline, often running in families.
What you can do at home
- Be gentle with hair.
Medicines
Minoxidil and finasteride.
At the doctor
Diagnosed by exam.
Questions you may be asked
- Family history
The exam
A scalp exam.
Tests
- Blood tests if sudden
Prevention
Start early.
- Treat early
Check your symptoms
Most symptoms have more than one possible cause. The symptom checker looks at all of your symptoms together, plus your age, and shows how soon to get care.
Sources
Last updated 2026-11-13.