A combination of your hormones and genes, as well as aging, determines the onset of male pattern baldness (also referred to as androgenetic alopecia). Although genetic influences play the primary role in the development and progression of androgenetic alopecia, a sedentary lifestyle and a high fat diet appear to also be contributing factors. The typical pattern of male baldness begins at the hairline, which gradually recedes to form an “M” shape, then hair at the crown will also begin to thin. Eventually, the top of the hairline meets the thinning crown, forming a horseshoe pattern of hair around the sides of the head. Contrary to popular belief, when you are balding, you won’t see extra hairs on your pillow in the morning or notice hair falling out when shampooing. Hair will continue to fall out at its normal rate, but it will grow back much shorter and finer. Strong emotional aspects are tied into hair loss and professional medical assistance may be necessary to help you cope. Once assessed by a physician who is trained in hair loss disorders, available options presented to you may include medical therapy to prevent or slow down the rate of shedding, hair transplantation or hair pieces.