Hair loss is a long-standing concern for many people, with countless individuals actively seeking ways to prevent it. To effectively manage hair loss, it’s essential to understand which stage you’re in. The Norwood Scale, a descriptive tool used to diagnose hair loss in men, classifies development process into seven distinct stages. In this article, we’ll guide you know each stage of the Norwood Scale and help you identify where you stand. Read on to find your Norwood stage and explore potential solutions, including prescription treatments, hair systems, and hair transplants.
CLASS 1 Invisible Hair Loss
CLASS1 represents a full head of hair with no visible hair loss. The hairline is in normal position, with no significant signs of balding, thus the class1 is not considered as balding. No measures are needed to be taken at this stage.
CLASS 2 Slight Hairline Recession
At class2, the front hairline starts to recede, forming a “widow’s peak” appearance. The hairline recession is usually subtle and may not be noticeable to others. If you pay attention to it, you may feel distressed and nervous. But don’t worry, the stage is also not considered as true balding according to the Norwood Scale. At the stage, medications like finasteride and minoxidil can prevent DHT (the hormone responsible for hair loss) from binding to your follicles. Compared with other options, at this stage , the medical treatment is the best choice.
CLASS 3 Noticeable Hairline Recession
The stage is identified as balding. At this stage, the hairline has noticeable recession, and its shape resembles M, U, or V. At the same time, hair loss begins to occur at the crown. Both medical treatments and hair transplants are effective choices for this stage. You can choose one that you tend to receive.
CLASS 4 Significant Hairline and Crown Loss
At this stage, with significant hair loss, the bald spot at the crown becomes more evident. And a bridge of hair connecting the the front of the scalp and the crown begins to become thin and break apart. At this stage, most men start to look for various solutions for hair loss and select the appropriate solution for themselves. Hair systems and hair transplants are recommended options: consider researching their differences to determine the best fit for you.
CLASS 5 Large Bald Spots
The bridge of hair begins to disappear and the bald area at the front of the scalp and crown begin to merge. There will be a noticeable and evident bald area. Both hair systems and hair transplants can yield excellent results at this stage.
CLASS 6 Balding
At the stage, the bridge of hair has disappeared completely, leaving a larger bald spot and some remaining hair on the sides of the head. Hair transplant is not the best option at this stage because there is less hair left and fewer follicles to extract. Wearing a hair system is the most suitable option.
CLASS 7 Extensive Hair Loss
This is the most advanced stage. At this stage, hair loss is almost widespread, and only a small amount of hair is present on the sides and back. Therefore, hair transplant is still a choice, but coverage may be limited to the front, crown, or back of the head. At this stage, wearing a hair system is the best choice.
Conclusion
Identifying your hair loss stage according to the Norwood Scale can be helpful in addressing hair loss effectively.
Generally speaking, Norwood class 1-2 usually do not have evident hair loss, thus many people may neglect it. At this stage, medical treatments are available. Norwood class 3 marks the beginning of balding. At the stage, hair loss begins to become noticeable, and many people feel nervous about it. Medical treatments and hair transplants are both good choices. As bald spots become clearly visible at this stage, Norwood stages 4 and 5 are optimal for intervention, whether through hair systems, transplants, or a combination. Norwood class 6-7 show the most significant hair loss. At the stage, there is only a handful of hair on the sides and back of the head. Hair transplants become less feasible, while hair systems are often the most suitable option.