Norwood Scale for Hair Loss: Stages 1-7 Explained

Last edited, 8 October 2024
Male pattern hair loss, known scientifically as androgenetic alopecia, affects millions of men worldwide. While the experience of hair loss can be distressing, it is also predictable. The pattern typically begins with a receding hairline, gradually forming an “M” shape. Hair thinning follows at the mid-crown, eventually leading to a bald patch. In the later stages, only a horseshoe-shaped band of hair remains around the base of the scalp. This progression was categorized into seven classes in the 1950s, a classification now known as the Norwood Scale.
At IdealofMeD, we use the Norwood Scale to better understand your hair loss and recommend the most effective treatments, including medications and advanced hair transplant techniques.
In this article, we’ll guide you through the stages of the Norwood Scale and explain how you can identify your hair loss stage and take control of your hair journey.
In This Guide
What is the Norwood Scale?
The Norwood Scale (also called the Hamilton-Norwood Scale) is a classification system used to track and categorize the stages of male-pattern baldness. Developed by Dr. James Hamilton in the 1950s and further refined by Dr. O’Tar Norwood in the 1970s, it remains the most recognized tool for assessing male hair loss today.
The scale ranges from Class 1 (no noticeable hair loss) to Class 7 (extensive hair loss with only a ring of hair around the sides and back of the head). Understanding your stage can help your doctor recommend the best treatment plan for you. Hair loss is influenced by several factors, including genetics, hormones, and age, and early intervention can often slow or even reverse the process.
Hair Loss Stages According to the Norwood Scale
Norwood Class 1: No Hair Loss
At this stage, there is no visible hair loss. The hairline is considered to be in a normal, youthful position, with no significant thinning. While not balding, this stage can be a natural part of the aging process, and many men never progress beyond this stage. If you are concerned about future hair loss, it’s a good idea to monitor your hair and consider a consultation with a specialist.
Norwood Class 2: Early Receding Hairline
Class 2 marks the beginning of a slight recession at the hairline, often taking on a “widow’s peak” appearance. While still not classified as true baldness, it’s the first indication that male pattern hair loss may be underway. Early intervention with treatments like minoxidil or finasteride can help slow down the progression. This stage offers the best opportunity to maintain your hair before more advanced thinning sets in.
Norwood Class 3: Hairline Recession and Vertex Thinning
Class 3 represents the first stage that is officially classified as male pattern baldness. The hairline recedes further, often forming a distinct “M” shape. Hair loss can also begin at the crown (vertex) of the head, known as a Class 3 Vertex pattern. At this point, medical treatments or hair transplant procedures may be considered, especially for those looking to prevent more noticeable balding.
Norwood Class 4: Significant Hairline and Crown Loss
At this stage, hair loss becomes more severe. The hairline continues to recede, and the bald patch on the crown expands. A thin bridge of hair may still remain between the front of the scalp and the crown, but it’s thinning and beginning to break apart. Men at this stage often explore hair restoration options, such as hair transplants or continued medical therapy to maintain the remaining hair.
Norwood Class 5: Larger Bald Spots, Hairline and Crown Merging
In Class 5, the bald areas at the front of the scalp and crown are more noticeable and begin to merge. The thin bridge of hair that separates them begins to disappear. Hair transplants can still be very effective at this stage, although the results will depend on the amount of donor hair available. This is often a pivotal stage where many men seek out advanced hair restoration solutions.
Norwood Class 6: Significant Balding
Class 6 is characterized by extensive hair loss. The hairline and crown bald spots merge, leaving a large, balding area on the top of the scalp. Only a horseshoe-shaped ring of hair remains on the sides and back of the head. Hair restoration is still possible, though the focus will be on achieving natural results with the available donor hair.
Norwood Class 7: Advanced Hair Loss
Class 7 represents the most advanced stage of male pattern baldness. At this stage, hair loss is widespread, and only a thin ring of hair remains around the sides and back of the scalp. A hair transplant is still an option, but the results may be more limited based on the amount of donor hair. Your doctor will help determine the best approach, whether it’s a transplant or alternative treatments.
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Identifying Your Stage

Understanding where you fall on the Norwood Scale is a crucial step in managing hair loss. The earlier you identify the signs, the more options you have for treatment. The scale ranges from Class 1, with minimal to no visible hair loss, to Class 7, where only a thin band of hair remains around the back and sides of the scalp.
In the early stages (Classes 1–2)
Hair loss may be limited to a slight recession in the hairline. Many men don’t even realize they’re losing hair at this point, as it can appear as a normal, mature hairline. This is the optimal time to take proactive steps, as early intervention can help slow or stop further hair loss.
Middle stages (Classes 3–4)
These stages show more noticeable recession at the hairline, along with thinning at the crown. Hair loss becomes more apparent and starts affecting overall appearance. While many men begin to feel concerned at this stage, it’s important to note that there are still effective treatment options available, ranging from topical solutions to minimally invasive procedures.
Advanced stages (Classes 5–7)
These involve significant hair loss at both the crown and front of the scalp, with only a ring of hair remaining around the sides and back. At this point, most men will need to consider more advanced treatments, such as hair transplant surgery, to restore their hair and confidence.
Determining your specific stage on the Norwood Scale can provide clarity on the best course of action. A consultation with a hair loss specialist will help you pinpoint where you are on the scale, giving you a personalized understanding of what to expect as the condition progresses.
Treatment Options Based on Your Norwood Scale Stage
Once you’ve identified your stage of hair loss, choosing the right treatment becomes easier. Depending on the severity of your hair loss, you have several options, ranging from non-invasive treatments to surgical solutions.

Early-stage treatments (Classes 1–2)
Middle-stage treatments (Classes 3–4)
As hair loss progresses, a combination of treatments may be needed to tackle both the receding hairline and thinning crown. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy is one non-surgical option that can stimulate hair growth and strengthen existing hair follicles. Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) is another non-invasive option that can enhance the effectiveness of other treatments.
For those who want more permanent results, hair transplants are often considered at this stage. Procedures like Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE Hair Transplant) or DHI Transplantation can help restore lost hair in a natural-looking way.
Advanced-stage treatments (Classes 5–7)
For men in the more advanced stages of hair loss, surgical treatments like hair transplants are usually the best option. Hair restoration procedures, such as FUE and FUT, involve moving healthy hair follicles from the donor area (typically the back or sides of the head) to the balding regions.
These transplants can provide long-lasting, natural results. Depending on your hair loss pattern and the extent of thinning, you might also consider scalp micropigmentation (SMP), which can create the appearance of a fuller head of hair without surgery.
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At IdealofMeD, we offer a comprehensive range of hair restoration treatments designed to address each stage of hair loss. Whether you’re in the early phases or dealing with more advanced hair loss, our specialists will guide you through the options, from non-surgical therapies to advanced hair transplant techniques. In many cases, a combination of treatments can be used to slow hair loss, encourage regrowth, and restore confidence.
Conclusion
Understanding where you stand on the Norwood Scale is key to addressing your hair loss. No matter your stage, IdealofMeD offers effective treatments to help you regain and maintain your hair. Whether you’re just starting to notice a receding hairline or are experiencing significant hair loss, we’re here to guide you through every step of your hair restoration journey.
Ready to take the first step? Schedule a consultation with IdealofMeD today and explore the solutions that best fit your hair loss needs!
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