How Do I Tell If My Hairline Is Receding?'

Name: Rom

Question: Hi. I have a V shaped hairline and I'm worried it looks like I'm losing my hair. How can I tell if my hairline is receding? I'm a male aged 18.

Answer: Hi, Rom. What you describe sounds like a widow's peak. This is a common hairline type whereby a point is formed in the centre and creates two peaks either side, often referred to as being V or M shaped. It does not necessarily indicate hair loss unless the angles become more pronounced over time or the 'peak' rounds off.

In order to determine whether you have a receding hairline yourself you would need to be able to compare your hairline to how it has looked previously, ideally from the same angles. Do bear in mind that during puberty it is possible for a man's hairline to change slightly due to a maturing hairline. You can monitor whether it appears to be receding over a few months as, even if you are experiencing hereditary hair loss, your rate of shedding may be quite slow.

Additionally, you could also check for a general lack of hair density - how thick your hair feels compared to previously - excessive hair fall and/or thinning hair around the temples - or, in fact, anywhere along the top of the scalp from crown to hairline, including the temporal areas, as these are the places which can be affected by Male Pattern Baldness. Although all these areas can be affected in cases of genetic hairloss, they may not all start at once - or even at all - but they are other common signs to look out for.

As you are 18 years of age, you have time on your side and can monitor this yourself over the next few months to see if any clear signs of hairloss become obvious. What may be obvious to you may not be as clear to other people so do try not to worry about this. We are often scrutinise our appearance far more than others do and can also be our own worst critics! However, you may prefer to get peace of mind by getting a professional opinion now.

Should it be the case that you do have a hair loss condition, whether this is Male Pattern Baldness or something else, all the options will be discussed with you. This includes treatment recommendations based upon their findings and the information you have provided to them and, where appropriate, additional hair growth supporting products.