Male hair loss treatment, personalised and clinician-checked

What causes male hair loss?

The most common type of hair loss in men is androgenetic alopecia, often called male-pattern baldness. It is driven by a sensitivity to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone derived from testosterone, which causes susceptible hair follicles to miniaturise and eventually stop producing hair. The pattern is typically a receding hairline at the temples and thinning at the crown, and it is largely genetic — if the men in your family have experienced it, you are more likely to as well.

Other causes of hair loss — patchy alopecia areata, stress-related telogen effluvium, scalp infections, thyroid problems, iron deficiency — look and behave differently. If you are not sure which type you have, or if the hair loss is very sudden or patchy, a GP visit is the right first step. Our consultation focuses on male-pattern hair loss specifically.

How is male-pattern hair loss treated?

The most effective prescription approach is a daily tablet that works by lowering the DHT level reaching hair follicles, which slows or halts the miniaturisation process. Many men using it maintain what they have and some see modest regrowth, particularly if they start while they still have reasonable coverage. It does not work overnight — a fair assessment takes at least six to twelve months of consistent use.

Some men also use a topical foam or solution applied directly to the scalp, which can help maintain thickness by prolonging the growth phase of existing follicles. This type of product is available both on prescription and over the counter, depending on the strength. Your prescriber can advise which, if any, is appropriate alongside prescription treatment.

Lifestyle factors — nutrition, stress management, avoiding harsh styling — support scalp health and can complement medical treatment, though they will not reverse genetic hair loss on their own.

Which specific treatment suits you, and at what dose, is confirmed by your prescriber inside the consultation once they have reviewed your health and checked it is suitable for you. We do not list medicine names on this public page — that is a deliberate compliance choice that keeps you safe.

Treating hair loss with NewGen

NewGen Pharmacy is a GPhC-registered community pharmacy at 245 High Street, Stratford. Our online clinic gives you access to the same clinical team — without needing an appointment. You complete a confidential questionnaire, a UK prescriber reviews it, and if treatment is appropriate it is dispensed and delivered to you in plain packaging, or available to collect in store. If at any point the prescriber has concerns, they will tell you clearly and suggest the right care.

If you are also concerned about testosterone levels or erectile function, see our testosterone (TRT) page and our erectile dysfunction page — these can sometimes be connected and the prescriber can take a joined-up view.

How the online consultation works for hair loss

The consultation asks about the pattern and duration of your hair loss, your general health, whether you have prostate-related symptoms, and any medicines or allergies. This gives the prescriber the clinical context they need to prescribe safely.

Certain medications for hair loss are not appropriate for men with prostate conditions or those whose partners might be pregnant — the consultation screens for these carefully. If everything is in order, you choose your preferred treatment option (or ask the prescriber to decide) and your order is prepared and dispatched.

When to see your GP instead

See your GP if your hair loss is sudden, patchy or circular; if your scalp is sore, red or scarred; if you have other symptoms such as fatigue, weight change or cold intolerance; or if you have a prostate condition and are uncertain whether prescription hair loss treatment is appropriate. If we cannot safely manage your situation online, we will say so and signpost you to better care. You can also call NHS 111 for advice.