THE once taboo topic of hair loss among young men is being talked about more openly than ever before. What was once seen as a concern only for men in their mid 30s or 40s is now striking teenagers and men in their 20s.
As these younger generations become more conscious of their hair health, hair experts are noticing an increase in visits to clinics and specialists.
The rise in awareness, fueled by social media and online health discussions, is leading to earlier intervention and a growing willingness to address the issue head-on.
Sunway Medical Centre Velocity’s Consultant (SMVC) Dermatologist, Dr Nur Ashikin Ahmad , can affect men across a wide range of ages. Research indicates that approximately 25 per cent of men who experience hair loss begin to notice symptoms before the age of 21.
"With increased awareness from social media and health forums, more younger men are seeking help for thinning hair and receding hairlines, becoming more vocal and mindful of their health.
"For many young men, hair loss in young men can be attributed to a range of factors, with genetic predisposition being the most common cause.
When evaluating patients, it is common to ask about family history—fathers, uncles or siblings—since genetics plays such a dominant role," she said in an interview with Sinar Daily.
However, genetics is not the only factor at play. Today’s lifestyle and environmental triggers are accelerating the onset of hair loss, especially for those already genetically predisposed. Stress is one of the biggest contributors.
Dr Ashikin described 'Telogen Effluvium' as a condition where stress accelerates the transition of hair into the shedding phase, leading to increased hair loss, such as finding more hair on your pillow or clothes. In some men, this may result in overall thinning or a decrease in hair volume, without distinct bald spots. Unlike in women, the pattern and appearance of hair loss in men can differ and typically does not lead to complete baldness.
"In addition, poor nutrition, especially a lack of vital nutrients like protein, iron, zinc and B12, can result in weak, thinning hair. Plus, hair care routines are often overlooked but are equally important.
"Hair straightening procedures or excessive hair lead to ‘Traction Alopecia,’ a condition where tightly pulled hairstyles damage hair follicles,” she added.
However, there is hope for those battling early signs of balding. Dr Ashikin emphasised the importance of early intervention.
She pointed out that many wait until their hair loss is visibly advanced, which significantly limits the effectiveness of treatment.
"Treatments may not offer a complete cure but can help slow the process and improve hair density over time. Managing stress, improving diet and using the right hair products can all play a significant role in preventing further hair loss,” she mentioned.
Echoing Dr Ashikin’s views, Dr Aly Alias Stephen Nah, Medical Hair Director at Hair Transplant Solutions Esadsa Clinic, shared that younger Malaysians are far more conscious about their hair health compared to older generations.
He observed that many Gen Z men are encountering hair-related concerns much earlier, with signs of thinning or hair loss appearing as early as their late teens or early 20s.
He added this shift, once commonly associated with men above 35 or 40, is influenced by several modern lifestyle changes, from increased stress related to studies, relationships, work and social media, to changing food nutrition.
"Despite these external triggers, the most significant factor in male hair loss remains genetics. Hair loss is largely predetermined by our DNA. Even without a family history, one in five men will still be at risk of developing hair loss. However, if there is a close family member who suffers from it, the risk for the next generation can rise to nearly 50 per cent.
"While we cannot change our genetics, environmental influences such as stress, poor nutrition and inappropriate hair products can trigger earlier onset of hair loss,” he highlighted.
But there is good news—earlier recognition of the issue can significantly help in managing and preventing further damage.
He advised men to avoid blindly following social media trends or using over-the-counter products that may not be suited to their individual needs.
According to Dr Aly, one promising development in combating hair loss is the AI Folli-Scan, a state-of-the-art tool available in Southeast Asia.
"The AI Folli-Scan provides a real-time, non-invasive analysis of the scalp, examining follicle health, hair density, and scalp conditions. This technology helps create personalised treatment plans, enabling men to take proactive steps toward preserving their hair.
"Because once male pattern hair loss begins, it is a lifelong process of maintaining what remains. Early understanding is the most powerful tool,” he stressed.
Dr Aly also pointed out that many Malaysian men are unknowingly deficient in essential nutrients like Vitamin D3, Omega-3 and Vitamin C.
"Despite Malaysia's sunny climate, the lack of sun exposure due to indoor lifestyles results in low Vitamin D3 levels, which are crucial for healthy hair growth.
"Addressing these deficiencies through dietary improvements or supplements can make a significant difference in preventing and managing hair loss early on,” he said.
Today’s young men are no longer passively accepting hair loss as an inevitable part of aging. Instead, they are vocal about their concerns, proactive in seeking treatment and more educated about the factors affecting their hair health.
While genetics still plays a significant role in male baldness, modern technology, greater awareness and lifestyle changes are empowering young men to take control of their hair health at an earlier age.
Whether through medical intervention or making healthier lifestyle choices, the journey to addressing hair loss is no longer a silent one; it is a conversation that is happening out in the open.