Help Discern Whether Or Not I'm Balding

[SamBeckett]

Hi all,

The title of the post is pretty self-explanatory. Approximately 4 months ago, I noticed a bald patch on top of my head that has seemingly continued to grow. I've always valued my head of hair, so the bald patch, combined with the emergence of what my mom has deemed a 'mature' hairline, has me worried about alopecia. No one in my immediate or extended family suffers from hair loss with the exception of my paternal grandfather, who went completely bald in his early twenties. I've already scheduled an appointment with a gp, who will hopefully refer me to a specialist. That being said, I want to come in armed with some knowledge about my condition. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

 

[Seeker988]

Looks like crown loss to me. Some recession as well. I think yes,you're balding.

 

[SamBeckett]

Thanks for being honest. If you don't mind, I've got a few more questions:

1) What stage in the balding process am I currently in? Is it advanced?

2) Assuming I have access to the best available treatments, is it possible to arrest the loss of hair for at least another 5-10 years?

Once again, thanks for all the help so far.

 

[Seeker988]

@DoctorHouse @JeanLucBB

 

[JeanLucBB]

Photos with the hairline exposed from the front? Certainly the crown appears to be thinning similar to my situation and if you notice its getting worse over time I wouldn't doubt it. Similar to how my hair was at 20. This does typically imply that you will go slick bald without medication, especially because of your age. The best treatment option is finasteride, wouldn't be surprised if your crown situation improved to the extent that it will just appear like a cowlick on the drug. Also add nizoral 2% shampoo for additional minor benefits. Chance of side effects on finasteride around 2-5% and efficacy long-term at about 85% for maintenance of your current situation.

 

[DoctorHouse]

Photos with the hairline exposed from the front? Certainly the crown appears to be thinning similar to my situation and if you notice its getting worse over time I wouldn't doubt it. Similar to how my hair was at 20. This does typically imply that you will go slick bald without medication, especially because of your age. The best treatment option is finasteride, wouldn't be surprised if your crown situation improved to the extent that it will just appear like a cowlick on the drug. Also add nizoral 2% shampoo for additional minor benefits. Chance of side effects on finasteride around 2-5% and efficacy long-term at about 85% for maintenance of your current situation.

Agree with @JeanLucBB