M-Shaped Hairline - What is That?
“Confidence comes from within” but let's not pretend that a receding hairline doesn't sometimes test that theory. In this post, we will dive into the receding pattern that leaves your hairline like an "M".
What is an M-shaped hairline? What causes it? What is true and what is not? Do you need a hair transplant or non-invasive cosmetic procedures like Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) can help you regain your confidence? These and many other questions will be covered in this piece.
What is an M-shaped Hairline?
Imagine the hair on your temples receding further back than the centre, creating a peak in the middle, so it looks almost like a subtle M that becomes more pronounced as the hairline matures; that is what an M-shaped hairline is. It is common among men but can also occur in women due to various factors.
This phenomenon can be linked to male pattern baldness, but it is not guaranteed that you will be going bald. Some signs to look out for are to know if your M-shaped hairline is a precursor of baldness, the speed at which it recedes and if the hair at the top of your head is thinning.
Common Causes of an M-Shaped Hairline
Genetics
If your dad and grandad both had that "M", you are at a higher risk of inheriting it, but even with a genetic predisposition, the severity and timelines can vary. It's not just about the genes. It's also about how those genes interact with other things like age, stress levels, lifestyle and even hormones play a role, which brings us to our next point.
Hormonal Factors
A byproduct of testosterone called dihydrotestosterone (DHT) plays a role in this occurrence as well. In men who are genetically sensitive to it, DHT shrinks the hair follicles, especially around the temples, until those follicles produce thinner and thinner hairs. In women, however, fluctuations in hormone levels can be a trigger. This is usually seen to occur during pregnancy, menopause or due to conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
Male Pattern Baldness
Male pattern baldness, also known as androgenetic alopecia, is heavily associated with the M- M-shaped hairline because it is one of the most common causes of an M-shaped hairline. It is a genetic condition influenced by the hormone discussed in the previous point (DHT).
Also Read: All You Need To Know About Male Pattern Baldness And Its Treatment
Stress and Lifestyle
Chronic stress pushes hair follicles into some sort of hibernation mode; luckily, if this is the cause of your hair loss, it is easily reversible. Think of your hair follicles as tiny plants that require the right nutrients and care to thrive. A diet that lacks essential vitamins and minerals could be a recipe for bad hair.
Age
Aging usually comes with a naturally receding hairline, which often leads to a more mature hairline that may stabilize without progressing further and doesn't necessarily indicate the onset of baldness.
Best Treatment Options for M-Shaped Hairline
Finasteride/Minoxidil
Finasteride is a medication that blocks the production of DHT (that hormone we discussed earlier that shrinks hair follicles). Minoxidil, on the other hand, increases blood flow to the hair follicles, which can stimulate growth and potentially thicken existing hair. Both are proven solutions, however, be sure to speak to a health professional before using any of these.
Hair Transplant
This option is basically done by taking hair from places that are thriving and moving it to places that are struggling. This is a more permanent solution to hair loss.
Scalp Micropigmentation
Scalp Micropigmentation, aka hair tattoo, is an innovative treatment option that is becoming increasingly popular. It is essentially a cosmetic tattooing technique (not the same as hair tattooing) where tiny dots of pigment are deposited onto the scalp to give the illusion of hair follicles. It does not add any new hair; it just makes it look like you have more hair. The results can last for several years with proper care. Do note that SMP is not a permanent hair loss solution, but it is a non-surgical solution and often less expensive than a hair transplant.
Lifestyle Changes
Essentially, a balanced diet is the foundation of healthy hair. Adopting other lifestyle changes or additions could also go a very long way.
Eat more proteins (think lean meats, beans, eggs, etc). It is crucial because the primary constituent of hair is protein. Also, ensure to include iron-dense foods like red meats and spinach) as they carry oxygen to the hair follicles.
In addition, Zinc and Biotin are also very important minerals that you must incorporate to ensure your hair feels naturally healthy. Changes like reducing stress levels and regular scalp massages etc can also help in maintaining your hair and scalp health.
Caring for Your Hairline
Even if you opt for treatments like SMP or medications, it’s essential to care for your hairline with proper maintenance. Experts recommend using gentle shampoos and avoiding harsh chemical treatments to prevent further damage to your hair and scalp and protect your scalp from excessive sun exposure to maintain its health.
Conclusion
Knowledge is power! Understanding the science behind hair loss, different treatment options and the potential risks and benefits are all crucial for making informed decisions. Also, it is important not to blindly follow trends or make decisions solely based on Internet advice.
Do your research about your M-shaped hairline, and feel free to consult with qualified professionals who can help you embrace lifestyle changes and non-surgical hair loss solutions for lasting, natural-looking results.
