What is the Norwood Scale?
The Norwood Scale (officially the Hamilton-Norwood Scale) is the most widely used classification system for male pattern hair loss. Developed in the 1950s and refined in the 1970s, it describes seven stages of hair loss progression — from a full hairline through to extensive baldness.
Doctors use it to describe the current state of your hair loss, predict likely progression, and determine which treatments — including finasteride and minoxidil — are likely to be most effective for your stage.
The seven stages.
Type I: Minimal or no recession. A full hairline with no significant thinning.
Type II: Slight recession at the temples forming a very early M shape. Easily overlooked.
Type III: The first stage classified as significant hair loss. Clear recession at the temples, and possibly early thinning at the crown (Type III Vertex).
Type IV: Deeper recession at the temples and noticeable thinning at the crown. A band of hair still separates the two areas.
Type V: The band of hair separating the front and crown areas becomes thinner. The two thinning zones begin to join.
Type VI: The areas merge into a single large thinning zone. Hair on the sides remains.
Type VII: The most advanced stage. Only a narrow band of hair remains on the sides and back of the head.
Finasteride, minoxidil, and the Norwood Scale: Finasteride and minoxidil are most effective at Types II through V, when follicles are still active. Types VI and VII can still benefit from treatment in terms of preserving existing hair, but regrowth in fully bald areas is unlikely.
What stage am I?
Most men who first notice hair loss are at Type II or III. If you're seeing early recession at the temples or a small thinning patch at the crown, you're likely in this range — and this is the ideal time to start finasteride, minoxidil, or a combination of both.
You don't need to self-diagnose your Norwood stage before starting. When you complete a Forme assessment, your NZ-registered doctor will assess your current hair loss as part of the review before recommending a personalised treatment plan.
Take a free 2-minute assessment and get a personalised recommendation from a NZ-registered doctor.
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