Visual guide
Hair loss stages: Norwood & Ludwig
Doctors use these scales to describe how far pattern hair loss has progressed. Find the picture closest to yours — it helps you read guides and talk to a dermatologist.
Stage descriptions and treatment options have not been independently medically reviewed.
Norwood scale (men)
Seven stages describing receding temples and crown thinning. Diagrams are simplified, top-down views.
Norwood 1
Looks like: Full hairline, no noticeable recession.
What it means: Baseline. Some men compare photos over time from here.
Options: No treatment needed. Good time to take reference photos if hair loss runs in the family.
Norwood 2
Looks like: Slight recession at the temples — often called a 'mature hairline'.
What it means: Very common in adult men and not always progressive.
Options: Monitor with photos. Some start Minoxidil early if family history is strong.
Norwood 3
Looks like: Deeper M- or V-shaped temple recession. 3 Vertex adds crown thinning.
What it means: The first stage clinically considered hair loss.
Options: Topical Minoxidil, finasteride (Rx) and supportive scalp care work best from here.
Norwood 4
Looks like: Further frontal recession and a visible crown spot, separated by a band of hair.
What it means: Clear, progressing pattern loss.
Options: Combination treatment is common; transplant consultations begin to be relevant.
Norwood 5
Looks like: Front and crown areas enlarge; the band between them thins.
What it means: Advanced loss.
Options: Medical treatment helps keep what remains; transplant depends on donor supply.
Norwood 6
Looks like: The bridge of hair is gone; front and crown merge.
What it means: Extensive loss.
Options: Transplant may be limited; hair systems, buzz cuts and scalp micropigmentation are popular.
Norwood 7
Looks like: Only a horseshoe band remains at the sides and back.
What it means: Most advanced stage.
Options: Cosmetic options and embracing a shaved look; transplant rarely suitable.
Ludwig scale (women)
Three stages of thinning on top of the head, usually with the front hairline kept.
Ludwig I
Looks like: Mild thinning on top; the part looks slightly wider. Front hairline intact.
What it means: Early female pattern hair loss — easy to miss.
Options: Topical Minoxidil, gentle care and checking iron/thyroid are good first steps.
Ludwig II
Looks like: Noticeably wider part and reduced volume across the crown.
What it means: Moderate loss; the scalp shows under bright light.
Options: Minoxidil plus doctor-prescribed options such as spironolactone or oral Minoxidil.
Ludwig III
Looks like: Extensive thinning on top with clear scalp visibility.
What it means: Advanced female pattern loss.
Options: Combined medical treatment, toppers and hair systems; transplant in selected cases.
Stages don't tell the whole story.
Patchy, sudden or painful loss isn't pattern hair loss — see the conditions encyclopedia or take the hair quiz.
This content is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Speak with a qualified healthcare professional about your individual situation.