Androgenetic Alopecia: Common Baldness and Male-Pattern Hair Loss

Androgenetic alopecia (AGA), also known as common baldness or male-pattern hair loss, is the most common cause of hair loss in men. It follows a specific pattern of hair loss, starting from the temples and progressing to the front and top of the head, while the hair at the back of the head remains unaffected. There is also a variant of AGA that presents as a general diffuse hair loss, more commonly found among Asians. The underlying cause of AGA is the miniaturization of hair follicles due to androgen hormones. This process is considered a normal part of aging, but it becomes a medical concern when the hair loss is excessive, premature, and distressing to the patient.