Your hairline probably isn’t something you think about every day — until it starts changing. There are many different types of hairlines in men, differing in height, shape, and structure. And, certain conditions like androgenetic alopecia can lead to a receding hairline over time.
Your hairline probably isn’t something you think about every day — until it starts changing. There are many different types of hairlines in men, differing in height, shape, and structure. And, certain conditions like androgenetic alopecia can lead to a receding hairline over time.
So, how can you tell what’s typical and what might signal hair loss?
In this guide, we explore the most common types of hairlines in men, how to spot the signs of a receding hairline, and the options available for tackling hair loss or reshaping your natural hairline.
Your hairline isn’t just random — it’s shaped by genetics, age, and hormonal changes. Some men naturally have a higher forehead, while others keep a low, youthful-looking hairline well into adulthood.
Noticed your hairline changing or looking thinner? It could be hair loss.
The following conditions can impact the height, shape, or fullness of your hairline over time:
Androgenic alopecia, also known as male pattern hair loss
Traction alopecia, which can happen if you regularly wear very tight hairstyles
Temporal triangular alopecia, a condition some people are born with
Alopecia areata, an autoimmune condition that causes bald patches all over the scalp (and sometimes along the hairline)
There’s really no such thing as a “normal” or “good” hairline in men. Hairlines vary from one person to the next.
But are a few common hairline shapes:
Rounded hairline. Also called a bell-shaped hairline, this is a soft, curved hairline with no sharp angles or deep recession at the temples.
Rectangular hairline. A symmetrical, straight hairline with sharp angles at the temples. A shape-up at the barber can make your hairline look more rectangular.
Triangle hairline. This V-shaped hairline tapers toward the center of the forehead.
M-shaped hairline. Although this can be a receding hairline — which is a sign of hair loss — some people have naturally M-shaped hairlines.
Widow’s peak hairline. This can look similar to an M-shaped hairline, but the top angles of the “M” are usually more soft and rounded.
Uneven hairline. Some people have uneven hairlines, which may be asymmetrical because of a cowlick (a swirl of hair that grows in a different direction).
Hairlines can also vary based on height:
Low hairline. This type of hairline sits closer to the eyebrows and creates a smaller forehead. It can make your hair look thicker.
Middle hairline. This is the most common hairline height. It sits in the middle of the forehead, between the eyebrows and top of the head.
High hairline. A high hairline starts further back on the scalp, making your forehead look larger. If you have a receding hairline, your hairline will move higher and higher onto your scalp.
Generally speaking, the older you are, the higher your hairline. But you can also be born with a naturally higher hairline.
Just like all hairline types are different, not all hairlines recede in the same way.
If you have a receding hairline, it might be:
M-shaped.Thinning at the temples that creates an “M” shape.
U-shaped. A more even receding pattern across the entire front of the hairline.
Uneven. One temple recedes faster than the other, creating an asymmetrical look.
If you’re noticing any of these patterns, you might be experiencing male pattern baldness, which affects about 30 percent to 50 percent of men by age 50.
If your hairline is changing quickly or you’re noticing excess shedding or thinning, it could be a sign of male pattern baldness or another hair condition.
Signs to watch for:
Hairline starting further back (receding hairline)
Widening of the temples
Increased hair shedding
Hair thinning
Visible scalp through the hair
If any of these sound familiar, it’s worth talking to a healthcare provider about proven hair loss treatments like minoxidil or finasteride. More on that in the next section.
Yes, it’s possible to change your natural hairline type if you’re not happy with how it looks.
Here are a few options:
Visit a barber. A neat line-up or shape-up can give you the appearance of a rectangular hairline.
Laser hair removal. If you feel your hairline is too low, or if you’re self-conscious about your hairline pattern, laser hair removal could help neaten it up.
Microblading. This tattooing technique can help fill out your hairline by mimicking the look of individual hairs. This could help if you have a thin patch or an uneven hairline.
If you have a receding hairline, or any other type of hair loss, the following hair growth treatments can help prevent further thinning or even stimulate regrowth:
Minoxidil (Rogaine®). A topical, FDA-approved hair loss treatment, minoxidil stimulates hair follicles to promote regrowth. You can buy minoxidil foam or minoxidil solution online or over the counter.
Finasteride (Propecia®). This prescription-only oral tablet reduces dihydrotestosterone (DHT), the hormone responsible for androgenic alopecia.
A combo treatment. Combining finasteride and minoxidil is even more effective for reducing hair loss. Try our topical finasteride and minoxidil spray.
Hair transplants. While hair restoration surgery is expensive, it can help with severe hair loss.
Learn more in our guide to hairline restoration treatments.
Word of warning: Most forms of hair loss get worse over time, especially if left untreated.
The earlier you start treatment, the better your chances of slowing down or reversing hair loss. Consider speaking with a healthcare professional — like a doctor or dermatologist — to explore your treatment options.
Not always. Some people are genetically predisposed to conditions like androgenetic alopecia — and if the men in your family tend to get receding hairlines as they age, you’re likely to experience hair loss too.
Your best bet is to start a science-backed hair loss medication (like minoxidil or finasteride) as soon as you notice the early signs of hair loss.
Still, certain healthy habits can help prevent other forms of hair loss or hair shedding.
You could try:
Reducing hair breakage by handling your hair gently, avoiding chemical treatments, and keeping your hair hydrated and nourished
Eating a varied, healthy diet to avoid nutrient-related hair loss
Avoiding overly tight hairstyles, which can cause traction alopecia
Taking supplements if you have any nutritional deficiencies — iron, biotin, and B vitamins are essential for healthy hair growth
If you want to learn more about taking care of your hair, check out our guide to hair care for men and our blog post on hair types and textures.
Whether your hairline is low, high, or receding, the key is knowing what’s normal and what’s a potential sign of hair loss.
Let’s recap what we know about hairline types in men:
Your hairline is unique to you. There are many different hairline types, but these are just general shapes that researchers have found that people have in common. Variations can appear in individuals with similar hairline shapes.
Your hairline can be low, middle, or high. This difference in hairline refers to the distance between the hairline and the top of the eyebrows.
Your hairline might signal hair loss. M-shaped, widow’s peak, and triangular-shaped hairlines can indicate your hair is thinning. If you’ve noticed changes or have concerns, speak with a healthcare professional, as there are ways to stop a receding hairline.
You can treat hair thinning with research-backed hair loss treatments. Medications like minoxidil and finasteride can help to address hair thinning as well as prevent further hair loss.
If you’re concerned about hair loss, don’t wait until it’s too late — clinically proven treatments can help preserve and regrow your hair.
Start by making an appointment with a consultant today to discuss your treatment options. With the right medication, you can reduce hair loss and feel confident about your hairline again — no matter its shape or height.
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