Hair Loss Science

Hair Loss Science: DHT, AGA & Follicle Miniaturization

Reviewed by [Reviewer Name, MD] | Last reviewed: August 2026 | Editorial policy

Understanding the biology of androgenetic alopecia helps you make informed decisions about treatment. This section covers the mechanisms behind hair loss — how DHT drives miniaturization, how pattern baldness progresses, and what the hair cycle means for treatment timing.

Hair Science Articles

  • DHT and hair loss — How dihydrotestosterone drives follicle miniaturization in AGA
  • Norwood scale — Stages I–VII of male AGA; what each stage looks like and means for treatment
  • Shedding vs. hair loss — Normal shedding vs. true AGA miniaturization; why the distinction matters on finasteride

Related: How finasteride works | What is finasteride | Finasteride for AGA