Faculty Opinions Recommendation of a New Classification of Pattern Hair Loss That Is Universal for Men and Women: Basic and Specific (BASP) Classification

In 2007, Lee et al. introduced a new classification for pattern hair loss (PHL) that is applicable to both men and women, known as the Basic and Specific (BASP) classification. This system classifies PHL based on the shape of the anterior hairline (basic type) and the density of hair in the frontal and vertex areas (specific type). The basic types include L (linear, no recession), M (resembling an M, from M0 to M3), C (from C0 to C3), and U (horseshoe shape, from U1 to U3). The specific types include F (general density loss over the top of the scalp, from F1 to F3) and/or V (when hair is predominantly sparser around the vertex, from V1 to V3). The BASP classification was found to be more comprehensive than previous grading scales and demonstrated better reproducibility and repeatability than the commonly used Norwood-Hamilton classification. However, it was also noted to be somewhat complex for beginners and potentially insufficient for grading female pattern hair loss (FPHL) due to its limited grading for frontal hair loss. Despite these limitations, the BASP classification was considered a promising tool for grading and monitoring PHL in both sexes.