Scales
The Norwood and Ludwig scales
Professionals use these scales to describe androgenetic alopecia. They help you place your pattern and track it over time — not to diagnose.
- 1
Stage 1
No visible recession of the frontal hairline.
- 2
Stage 2
Slight recession at the temples, often called a 'mature' hairline.
- 3
Stage 3
Deeper recession at the temples; usually the first stage considered baldness.
- 4
Stage 3 vertex
Moderate recession with thinning at the crown.
- 5
Stage 4
Clearer frontal recession and a distinct thin crown, separated by a band of hair.
- 6
Stage 5
The band between the front and the crown narrows.
- 7
Stage 6
The front and crown areas join up.
- 8
Stage 7
Only a horseshoe of hair remains at the sides and back.
Topical minoxidil has mostly been studied in mild to moderate stages. The longer-standing and more extensive the loss, the more cautious expectations should be. Photograph your hair today so you have a baseline.