Balding scalps have more androgen receptors, leading to increased TGF-beta, which causes blood vessel loss and hair follicle miniaturization. Blocking androgen signaling and TGF-beta may help prevent hair loss.
A 28-year-old is assessing their hair loss on the Norwood scale, considering adding topical minoxidil and dermastamping to their current regimen of oral finasteride and minoxidil. They feel their hair loss is worsening and seek opinions on their condition.
A 31-year-old male considering returning to finasteride at a lower dose or using topical finasteride to assess his Norwood scale for a potential future hair transplant. He previously stopped finasteride due to side effects and has been shaving his head.