Men’s hair characteristics are influenced by androgens, especially testosterone and its more potent derivative dihydrotestosterone (DHT). These hormones affect scalp sebum levels (often higher in men), follicle sensitivity, particularly at the crown and temples and hair texture, often coarser and thicker. However, the same DHT that contributes to early beard growth or body hair also drives male pattern baldness (androgenetic alopecia) by miniaturizing hair follicles in genetically predisposed individuals.

DHT binds to androgen receptors in the dermal papilla cells of hair follicles. This reduces follicle size, shortens the anagen phase (growth) and leads to vellus hair formation—thinner, weaker strands. Over time, these miniaturized follicles stop producing visible hair altogether. This hormonal pathway is the primary cause of progressive thinning and recession in men.

Men typically produce more sebum due to androgen activity, which provides natural scalp hydration. But also feeds microbes like Malassezia, which in excess can cause dandruff, inflammation, and itching. An imbalanced scalp microbiome or clogged follicles can result in irritated scalp barriers, flaky build-up, increased risk of seborrheic dermatitis, especially in oily or sweaty scalps.

Modern lifestyle factors strongly affect male hair health. Chronic stress elevates cortisol, which can prematurely push follicles into the telogen phase, triggering hair fall (telogen effluvium). Dietary deficiencies, especially in protein, iron, zinc, and B-complex vitamins, impair keratin production and follicle metabolism. Smoking, alcohol, and poor sleep reduce blood flow and oxygenation to follicles, impairing growth.

Even in men without genetic hair loss, ageing alters hair structure follicles enter longer telogen (resting) periods, hair shafts become finer, weaker, and grow more slowly and sebum and moisture levels decline, leading to dryness and scalp tightness. This means that even if men aren’t balding, their hair may still appear thinner, duller, and less resilient with age.