7- Hair Loss Stages and the Best Treatment for Each One

Hair loss develops gradually in clearly defined stages, and identifying your stage is key to choosing the most effective treatment. Whether you are experiencing male pattern baldness or female hair thinning, the Norwood and Ludwig scales help classify hair loss and guide treatment decisions.

Hair fall typically progresses from mild thinning to significant baldness, following distinct patterns in men and women.

The Norwood Scale for men highlights receding hairlines, M-shaped patterns, and crown thinning, while the Ludwig Scale for women focuses on a widening part and gradual thinning at the crown. As hair loss advances, changes in density, hairline shape, and overall coverage become more noticeable, often forming a horseshoe-shaped pattern in advanced stages.

Recognizing your stage is crucial for selecting the right hair loss treatment or restoration solution, including medications, topical therapies, or hair transplantation.

In this article, we explain the stages of hair loss using the Norwood and Ludwig scales, explore the most effective treatments for each stage, and highlight when a hair transplant may be the ideal solution. Looking for personalized advice?

At Turkey Luxury Clinics, our top hair specialists and transplant surgeons can assess your stage and recommend the most effective treatment plan.

What are the Hair Loss Stages?

Hair loss stages are typically categorized using the Norwood scale for men and the Ludwig scale for women. The Norwood stages of hair loss have seven stages, ranging from no visible hair loss to severe baldness. The Ludwig scale has three stages, focusing on thinning hair at the crown and widening of the hair part.

In most cases, hair loss doesn’t happen overnight or within just a few days. It usually develops gradually over time, but this depends on the cause and type of hair loss.

Male pattern baldness can take years to progress, and usually occurs as 7 stages of hair loss showing a distinct V- or M-shaped thinning pattern. On the other hand, hair loss caused by chemotherapy tends to happen more quickly, usually after the first or second treatment cycle, and appears in a more scattered, patchy way.

Hair loss stages, primarily defined by the Norwood Scale for men, progress from slight temple recession in Stage 2 to noticeable M/U/V shapes in Stage 3, merging bald spots on the crown and front in Stage 4&5, and finally a horseshoe pattern with minimal hair left by Stage 7.

Male Pattern Baldness Stages (Norwood Scale)

The male pattern baldness, aslo called Androgenetic Alopecia, typically develops slowly over the years, although it may begin as early as the late teens or early 20s.

The rate and severity of progression can vary widely, depending on genetics, hormones, and individual response to treatment.

Male pattern baldness progresses through 7 stages, classified by the Norwood Scale. It begins with a mature hairline in Stages 1–2, followed by deeper recession at the temples in Stage 3. Thinning may appear at the crown (Stage 3 Vertex), gradually enlarging and eventually merging with the receding hairline. In the later stages (4–7), baldness spreads across the top of the scalp, leaving only a horseshoe-shaped band of hair around the sides and back.

Norwood Scale The 7 Stages of Male Pattern Baldness

The Norwood Scale (also called the Hamilton-Norwood Scale) is the standard system for classifying and tracking male pattern baldness (androgenetic alopecia).

It divides hair loss into 7 stages, ranging from minimal hairline recession (Stage 1) to severe baldness (Stage 7).

The Norwood Stages is a 7-step system classifying the progression of male pattern baldness, from a full hairline (Stage 1) to severe hair loss with only a horseshoe pattern remaining (Stage 7).

Each stage describes the hairline recession (often M, U, or V-shaped) and thinning at the crown (vertex), helping doctors and patients track hair loss and plan treatments like medications or hair transplants.

This scale helps doctors and specialists assess the severity of hair loss, monitor progression over time, and plan appropriate treatments such as medications or hair transplants

The 7 Stages of the Norwood Scale

Each baldness stage in the Norwood scale describes the hairline recession (often M, U, or V-shaped) and thinning at the crown (vertex)

Baldness Stages by Norwood Scale

Stage I (Stage 1 Hair Loss)

Stage one is the earliest, mildest phase with minimal visible balding, characterized by a slightly higher or maturing hairline, sometimes with minimal recession at the temples, but no distinct bald spots or significant loss yet.

It's a subtle change, potentially just a more mature-looking hairline, where the hair still appears full to the untrained eye, marking the beginning of androgenetic alopecia.

At this stage, there’s little to no visible hair loss. The hairline is essentially normal and intact. Some men naturally have a slightly higher hairline, which isn’t considered active balding.

Can stage 1 hair loss be reversed? Yes, stage 1 hair loss or baldness on the Norwood scale can often be slowed, stopped, and sometimes even reversed with early intervention using treatments like minoxidil and finasteride , potentially regaining some density by stimulating dormant follicles, but consistency is key, and later stages with follicle detachment become harder to reverse, making early action crucial.

Stage II (Stage 2 Hair Loss)

Hair loss begins to show subtle changes, particularly at the temples. A slight V-shaped or M-shaped hairline may start to form, though overall density remains fairly good.

Stage 2 of alopecia means you have a slight, triangular recession at the temples, forming an "M" or "V" shape, called a mature hairline, with minimal changes at the crown. About 1–2 cm of the scalp may be visible, but hair loss is still mild and highly treatable with topical Minoxidil, Finasteride, or laser therapy to slow progression and encourage growth before it becomes severe.

Stage III (Stage 3 Hair Loss)

This is the first stage where hair loss becomes clearly noticeable. The temples recede further, deepening the M-shaped pattern, and early thinning may begin at the crown.

Stage 3 is recognized by significant recession or early balding stage. Where hair loss becomes noticeable. The temples recede more prominently, and the “M” shape deepens. This stage may also show thinning at the crown (top of the head). Many people begin exploring professional treatments at this point.

Stage IV (Stage 4 Hair Loss)

Baldness progresses at both the frontal hairline and the crown. Distinct thinning areas are visible, separated by a band of hair across the mid-scalp.

It is an advanced recession stage with crown thinning. At this point, the hairline recession continues, and noticeable thinning appears on the crown. There is usually still a band of hair separating the frontal and crown bald areas. Hair loss is more distinct, and intervention is commonly considered.

Stage V (Stage 5 Hair Loss)

In stage 5, the bald areas at the temples and crown expand further. The band of hair between them becomes noticeably thinner, and overall scalp coverage decreases. Overall density drops, and baldness is clearly larger and visible across the top of the head.

Stage 5 on Norwood scale is an advanced form of male pattern baldness where the balding areas on the front (temples) and crown (vertex) significantly enlarge, and the separating band of hair becomes a very narrow, thin "bridge" that might nearly disappear, showing extensive hair loss but still with some remaining hair on the sides and back.

Stage VI (Stage 6 Hair Loss)

The frontal and crown bald areas merge, leaving significant hair loss across the top of the head. Hair remains mainly on the sides and back of the scalp.

Stage 6 is recognized by combined bald areas where the bald regions at the front and crown merge. The thin strip that once separated them has disappeared or nearly thinned out completely. Only hair at the sides and back of the scalp typically remains.

Stage VII (Stage 7 Hair Loss)

This is the most advanced stage of male pattern baldness. Only a narrow horseshoe-shaped band of hair remains around the sides and back, with very limited donor density.

Characterized by severe hair loss, with extensive hair loss across the top and front of the scalp, with only a narrow band of hair left around the sides and back. This remaining hair is usually sparse and not suitable for dense coverage.

Female Pattern Hair Loss Stages

Female hair loss, often androgenetic alopecia, progresses in stages. Stages of hair loss in females typically classified by the Ludwig Scale: Type I (mild thinning at the part), Type II (noticeable widening part, increased scalp visibility), and Type III (extensive thinning across the crown, potentially with a clear scalp).

Female pattern hair loss, also known as androgenetic alopecia in women, usually does not involve a receding hairline. Instead, it presents as progressive thinning and increased hair shedding, primarily on the top and crown, making it harder to conceal initially but often leaving hair healthy on the sides and back. It often starts in adulthood.

The stages of female hair loss are usually divided into three levels of severity, helping doctors track progression and treatment, though many women don't fit perfectly into these categories. The rate and severity of hair loss in females can vary based on genetics, hormonal changes, and how the body responds to treatment.

Ludwig Scale Stages for Females

To assess the extent of thinning, the Ludwig scale is commonly used. It classifies female pattern baldness into three main stages based on hair density at the crown and top of the scalp. The Ludwig Scale categorizes female pattern hair loss (FPHL) into three main stages, focusing on thinning at the crown and center part: Stage I (mild thinning, wider part), Stage II (moderate thinning, noticeable widening), and Stage III (severe thinning, visible scalp/crown balding).

Stages of Hair Loss Female by Ludwig Scale

Stage I Mild Thinning

In the first stage, hair loss is subtle and mostly occurs on the top or crown of the head. The central part of the hair may start to widen slightly, and the overall density of hair is mildly reduced. Often, this thinning is hardly noticeable to others, but the scalp may begin to peek through in certain lighting. This stage is considered ideal for early intervention, such as using Minoxidil or other preventive treatments, to slow or stop further hair loss.

Stage II Moderate Thinning

Hair thinning becomes more apparent in Stage II, spreading across the top of the scalp. The central part widens significantly, and overall hair volume decreases noticeably. Even though the hairline typically remains intact, the reduction in density makes the thinning more visible. Women in this stage often notice that their ponytail or hair styling feels lighter. Early treatment can still be effective, but monitoring and consistent care become more important.

Stage III Severe Thinning

Stage III represents extensive hair loss across the top, crown, and sometimes extending toward the front hairline. The scalp becomes clearly visible, and in severe cases, the crown area may appear bald. At this point, medical treatments alone may not be sufficient to restore hair volume, and many women consider hair transplantation or other advanced procedures to regain fullness. Hair styling and cosmetic solutions can also help manage appearance while seeking treatment.

General Hair Loss Stages & Treatment Options

Chemotherapy Hair Loss Stages

Hair loss from chemotherapy typically begins 2 to 4 weeks after starting treatment. The chemo hair loss stages, pattern and severity depend on the type of chemotherapy, dosage, and individual response.

Hair usually falls out gradually, rather than suddenly, and typically in clumps, and patients often notice it on their pillow, in the shower drain, or when using a comb or brush. Hair loss can appear as general thinning, patchy bald spots, or complete baldness.

Shedding usually continues throughout the course of treatment and may persist for a few weeks after it ends.

Talk to your oncologist to understand what kind of hair loss you can expect based on your chemo regimen and how to prepare for it.

Treatment Options By Hair Loss Stage

Choosing the best treatment for hair loss—whether it’s male pattern baldness or female pattern hair thinning—depends largely on the stage of progression. Hair loss in men is typically classified using the Norwood Scale (Stages 1 to 7), while female hair loss follows the Ludwig Scale (Stages I to III).

1. Treatment of Early Stages of Hair Loss (Norwood Stages 1 & 2 / Ludwig Stage I)

In the early stages, hair loss is usually mild and can often be managed with non-invasive treatments:

1. Minoxidil topical solution, which helps prolong the growth phase of hair.
2. Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) to improve blood flow and follicle stimulation.

These options may delay further shedding and encourage new hair growth. However, individual results vary based on genetics, hormonal balance, and consistent use.

2. Treatment of Mid Stages of Hair Loss (Norwood Stages 3–5 / Ludwig Stage II)

Hair thinning becomes more noticeable, especially around the temples and crown (in men) or the top of the scalp (in women). Effective treatments at this stage include:

1. PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) therapy and stem cell therapy to boost follicle activity.
2. Combination therapy, such as minoxidil with anti-androgens (especially for women).
3. Hair transplant surgery becomes a viable option, especially for patients over 25 whose hair loss has stabilized.

Read more about: Hair Transplant For Thinning Hair

3. Treatment of Late Stages of Hair Loss (Norwood Stages 6 & 7 / Ludwig Stage III)

At this point, hair loss is advanced and visible across large areas of the scalp.

1. Hair transplantation is often the most effective solution, involving the relocation of hair follicles from donor areas to balding zones.
2. In cases with insufficient donor hair, alternative solutions such as scalp micropigmentation or cosmetic hair systems may be considered.

When to Consider a Hair Transplant for Hair Loss?

Are you qualified for hair transplant? A hair transplant becomes a suitable option when hair loss has stabilized—meaning shedding has slowed and the pattern of baldness is more predictable.

This typically occurs after age 25, often in the late 20s to early 30s, though it may vary depending on genetics and health factors.

It’s usually recommended in the mid to late stages of hair loss (Norwood stages 3–7 for men, or Ludwig stage II–III for women), especially when non-surgical treatments like minoxidil, finasteride, or PRP are no longer effective.

The success of a hair transplant also depends on having a sufficient amount of healthy donor hair—usually from the back or sides of the scalp. A consultation with a qualified hair restoration specialist is essential to determine your eligibility and expected outcome.

Interesting reads: Types of Hair Transplant Procedures

Get Expert Help for Your Hair Loss Stage at Turkey Luxury Clinics

Worried about hair loss and not sure what to do? Discovering the stage and cause of your condition is the first step toward effective treatment. At Turkey Luxury Clinics, our experts assess your case and guide you through proven treatments. If you're a candidate, a hair transplant may offer a permanent solution and help restore your natural, confident look.

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Sources

1. Mayo Clinic
2. Cleveland Clinic