A receding hairline is primarily caused by a combination of genetic factors, hormonal changes, and aging. Male pattern baldness, or androgenetic alopecia, is the most common cause of a receding hairline in men. In women, hormonal imbalances, certain medical conditions, and aging can contribute to a receding hairline.
The underlying cause of a receding hairline in male pattern baldness is the sensitivity of hair follicles to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone derived from testosterone. DHT binds to hair follicles and gradually miniaturizes them, resulting in shorter and thinner hair growth. This process typically starts at the temples and progresses to the crown, creating the characteristic “M” shape of a receding hairline.