What causes slight baldness at the front of the hairline?

Nov 28, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wenmin
Introduction
In general, mild hair loss at the front of the scalp may be caused by genetic factors, unhealthy lifestyle habits, androgenetic alopecia, alopecia areata, seborrheic dermatitis, or other reasons. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and receive appropriate treatment under a doctor's guidance. In daily life, include foods rich in protein and vitamins in your diet, such as eggs, black sesame seeds, and spinach.

Generally, mild hair loss at the front of the scalp may be caused by genetic factors, unhealthy lifestyle habits, androgenetic alopecia, alopecia areata, or seborrheic dermatitis. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and receive appropriate treatment under a doctor's guidance. A detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Genetic factors: Individuals with a family history of hereditary hair loss often have hair follicles that are sensitive to androgens, leading to gradual thinning of hair in the forehead area. Avoid frequent perming or dyeing to reduce hair damage. Appropriate hairstyles can help improve appearance, and maintaining a positive mindset is also beneficial.

2. Unhealthy lifestyle habits: Chronic sleep deprivation and high levels of mental stress can disrupt endocrine function, inhibit hair growth, and lead to hair loss in the frontal region. Ensure 7–8 hours of sleep daily, and relieve stress through exercise, meditation, or other relaxation techniques to stabilize endocrine balance through regular routines.

3. Androgenetic alopecia: Testosterone in androgens converts to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which damages hair follicles in the forehead area, causing hairs to become finer and softer until they fall out. Male patients should follow medical advice to use medications such as finasteride tablets, minoxidil topical solution, or spironolactone tablets to prevent further follicle miniaturization.

4. Alopecia areata: An autoimmune disorder causes immune cells to attack hair follicles, resulting in round or oval patches of hair loss on the forehead with clearly defined borders. Patients should follow medical advice to use medications such as halometasone cream, desonide cream, or cyclosporine soft capsules to regulate immune function.

5. Seborrheic dermatitis: Inflammatory irritation of the scalp in the forehead area disrupts the follicular environment, leading to hair loss accompanied by oily scalp and dandruff. Patients may use ketoconazole shampoo, selenium sulfide shampoo, or tacrolimus ointment as directed by a physician. Once inflammation is controlled, hair loss typically improves. In severe cases, hair follicle transplantation may be performed, transferring healthy follicles to balding areas.

In daily life, consume more protein- and vitamin-rich foods such as eggs, black sesame seeds, and spinach. Use a gentle shampoo when washing hair and avoid scratching the scalp with fingernails, minimizing follicular irritation and promoting healthy hair growth.