More young men going bald before their prime, a growing issue or just part of life?
From genetics to stress, there are many factors contributing to this issue, but how do young men deal with the effects on their self-esteem and lifestyle?
BALDING in your 20s used to be something that felt like an older generation problem, but now it seems more and more young men, especially Gen Zs, are noticing hair thinning earlier than expected.
From genetics to stress, there are many factors contributing to this issue, but how do young men deal with the effects on their self-esteem and lifestyle?
For Timothy Prakash, a 28-year-old motoring journalist, the signs of hair loss began when he was just 25. Reflecting on his family history, Timothy pointed to genetics as a likely culprit, as many men in his family either started balding early or went completely bald.
He also said that while wearing caps often may have played a part, he also has tried traditional remedies like oils and ointments, but the real breakthrough came when he switched to shampoos with fewer chemicals.
“These natural products seem to have slowed the process. As for how it has affected my self-image, I have gradually learned to accept it and carry on with my routines without being overly concerned about others' opinions.
“I am engaged now and while balding can shake your confidence at times, especially with the insecurities it brings, it becomes less of an issue when you are with someone who accepts you as you are.
“I have never actively sought help or support on the matter, so I am not sure what is available. But I would not say I am going through it alone, my family and fiancee have always been supportive,” he said in an interview with Sinar Daily.
For Wan Aqid Imran, a 25-year-old university student, hair thinning started around two years ago. After researching the topic, he concluded that stress and genetics were at the root of his hair issues. He said the added stress during a particularly tough time in his life seemed to speed up the process.
Aqid also mentioned that he does not regularly wear helmets, but he does occasionally wear hats to shield himself from the sun—nothing to do with hiding his hair.
When it comes to treatments, Aqid shared that he has tried rosemary oil and Ketoconazole shampoo, products commonly suggested to support hair growth.
“However, based on what I have read, unless you opt for a hair transplant, there is no real way to reverse it completely. That said, I have largely come to terms with it. At first, it did shake my confidence, I struggled a little, but over time it has just become part of life. It is beyond my control and I have accepted that.
“Thankfully, it has not affected my dating life or confidence in approaching someone I am interested in. The thinning is not too severe yet, so a neat haircut helps keep things looking presentable,” he said in an interview with Sinar Daily.
What concerns Aqid the most, however, is the way many men shy away from talking about hair loss.
With social media platforms like TikTok flooded with ads promising “miracle cures,” he believes many young men feel pressured by misleading marketing, leaving them searching for answers where there might be none.
“I do think there is awareness around hair loss among men, but many still see it as insecurity and shy away from talking about it. On top of that, I think there is a lack of proper education on the topic,” he added.
Yet, despite this shift toward acceptance, Malaysian barbers are noticing a troubling trend: the increasing number of young clients dealing with hair loss.
Vins Barbershop founder Loh Chi Hoong, also known as Vinsen, along with barber Muhammad Nizam Muhd Isa , shared that an increasing number of young people, especially from Gen Z, are seeking advice about early balding.
“It is a shift that is both unusual and worrying, given that hair loss has commonly been linked to ageing.
“While genetics and underlying health conditions often drive this issue, many external factors contribute as well, including lifestyle habits, excessive use of hair products and improper application of chemicals,” they said in an interview with Sinar Daily.
Both Vinsen and Nizam emphasised that a dual approach is essential for managing hair issues.
“For our clients, we always recommend a dual approach. First, consult a specialist to rule out or address any internal health concerns.
“Secondly, focus on external care by choosing the right products and using them properly. Understanding your specific hair issue is the first step toward finding the right solution,” they mentioned.
Alif Fitri, founder of Souls Barbershop, also sees a troubling rise in young people experiencing hair thinning.
He highlighted this trend is quite surprising from a health standpoint, as individuals in their early 20s typically have stronger hair roots compared to those in their 30s or older.
“Overwashing hair, for example, can strip the scalp of its natural oils, leading to dryness and dandruff, which eventually causes hair fall.
“Misuse of hair products is also a common issue, whether it is failing to rinse out products before bed or using items without understanding their ingredients or how much should be applied. These habits can all damage the scalp and hair,” he said in an interview with Sinar Daily.
However, Alif pointed out that since Malaysia's barbering industry gained momentum in 2013, barbers have shifted from just cutting hair to offering advice on scalp and hair health.
Many now provide consultations for hair maintenance beyond the chair.
“Clients often seek products to fix their hair concerns, but without a healthy foundation, even the most expensive or advanced products will deliver minimal results,” he added.
While hair loss is often met with disappointment or insecurity, there is also a noticeable shift toward acceptance. Young men, like Timothy and Aqid, are learning to embrace their changing appearance, aided by supportive families and partners.
The growing awareness around hair care, especially with barbers offering advice, means that young men are now more informed about the steps they can take to prevent or manage hair loss.
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