Understanding Norwood Scale: Where Are You?
The Norwood-Hamilton scale is the standard classification system for male pattern hair loss. Knowing your Norwood stage helps you set realistic goals and choose appropriate treatments.
Treatment Recommendations by Stage
Norwood 1-2 (Early/Preventive)
Goal: Maintain current density, prevent progression
Protocol:
- Finasteride 1mg daily (can reduce to 0.5mg for mild cases)
- Ketoconazole shampoo 2x/week
- Optional: Low-dose minoxidil for extra insurance
Norwood 3-4 (Moderate Loss)
Goal: Stabilize + partial regrowth
Protocol:
- Finasteride 1mg daily
- Minoxidil (topical or oral)
- Ketoconazole shampoo
- Consider microneedling for enhanced results
Norwood 5-6 (Advanced Loss)
Goal: Maximize existing hair + consider surgical options
Protocol:
- Finasteride + minoxidil (to protect existing hair)
- Hair transplant consultation (requires sufficient donor hair)
- Consider aggressive adjuncts (PRP, exosomes)
Norwood 7 (Extensive Loss)
Goal: Surgical restoration with realistic expectations
Protocol:
- Finasteride to protect transplanted grafts
- Multiple transplant sessions (2,000-4,000+ grafts total)
- Scalp micropigmentation (SMP) for density illusion
The Earlier, The Better
Hair loss is progressive. Starting treatment at Norwood 2-3 offers far better outcomes than waiting until Norwood 5-6. Early intervention preserves follicles before they miniaturize beyond recovery.
How to Accurately Assess Your Stage
- Take photos in bright, even lighting from multiple angles (front, sides, top)
- Compare your hairline to Norwood scale diagrams (widely available online)
- Have a dermatologist assess if unsure—they can catch early miniaturization you might miss
- Track changes every 6 months to gauge progression rate
Norwood Doesn't Tell the Whole Story
The Norwood scale classifies pattern, not density. You can be Norwood 3 with thick hair or Norwood 3 with diffuse thinning. Density matters as much as pattern for treatment decisions.
Find Your Protocol Based on Your Stage
Take our quiz to get personalized treatment recommendations based on your Norwood stage and goals.
Take the QuizThe Bottom Line: Know Your Stage, Act Accordingly
The Norwood scale isn't about labeling yourself—it's about making informed decisions. A Norwood 2 doesn't need a transplant; a Norwood 6 won't regrow a full head of hair with medication alone. Understanding where you are helps you set realistic goals and choose the right interventions.
The best time to start treatment? Yesterday. The second best time? Today. Regardless of your Norwood stage, taking action now prevents future regret.