M-Shape Hairline in Males and Females: Meaning, Causes, and Treatments

The problem of an M-shape hairline in men and women is more common than it was a few decades ago. Our hairline frames our faces and gives us a distinctive look. No wonder, having an m-shape hairline can drastically alter looks, affecting self-esteem and confidence.
But what causes m-shape hairline? Is there any way to fix it? We understand that many questions might be swirling in your mind if you are also dealing with m-shape hairline. And that’s precisely why we decided to create this blog.

Today, Lordhair - trusted globally for men's hairpieces and women's wigs - will talk about almost everything about m-shaped hairlines, including:

• What is an M-shaped hairline?
• What causes an M-shaped hairline in both men and women?
• What are some treatments and lifestyle changes for fixing an m-shaped hairline?

Let’s delve into the depths of this crucial topic and discover everything about the M-shaped hairline!

What is an M-shaped Hairline?

An M-shaped hairline refers to a pattern of hair loss in which the hairline is formed in the shape of the letter M. Mostly, this type of hairline manifests in individuals suffering from genetic hair loss but there can be other reasons behind it too. During the appearance of the M-shaped hairline, one section of hair sits down on the forehead while the other two sections are more towards the crown, creating a M shaped hairline. Now, let’s explore the causes of M-shaped hairline in both men and women.

What Causes M-shaped Hairlines in Men and Women?

Here are some factors that could lead to m-shaped hairlines in men and women:

Genetic factors

M-shaped hairlines can often be attributed to your genetic makeup. If your parents or grandparents have/had m-shaped hairlines, there's a good chance you may inherit this trait. Genetic predisposition usually determines the shape and placement of your hairline. For some, it means a more pronounced widow's peak or a higher hairline.

 

Hormonal changes

Your genes are not the sole reason behind an M-shaped hairline. Hormonal imbalancing can also be responsible for its development in both men and women. In women especially, life changing experiences like pregnancy, menopause, and the use of birth control pills also brings the hormonal imbalancing conditions that indirectly affects the hair growth patterns. A lot of women have experienced temporary hair thickening during pregnancy but some might notice m-shaped hairlines appearing after childbirth. According to dermatologists, menopause, with its associated hormonal shifts, can also lead to hair thinning at the front of the head.

 

Traction alopecia

For those who don’t know, traction alopecia is a condition that arises from prolonged and excessive tension on the hair shaft and follicles typically due to certain hairstyling practices. Tight hairstyles (like braids, weaves, and cornrows) or the constant use of hair accessories such as elastic bands can pull on the hair.
These factors gradually weaken the hair follicles over time, eventually leading to receding hairlines. Although not necessarily that all individuals may experience M-shaped hairline after traction alopecia, some have noticed hair thinning at the forehead as the time goes by.

 

Aging

Another and most obvious cause of m-shaped hairlines in both males and females. As we age, it’s natural for change in frontal hair to occur. This means hair growth patterns can shift and the hairlines may gradually recede. Dermatologists refer to this process as androgenetic alopecia. According to reports by Medline Plus, approximately 50 million men and 30 million women in the USA are affected by this.
Now, just imagine how higher the number would be at a global level. Quite alarming, isn’t it?

Want to take a break from the M-shaped hairline? Explore other popular blogs from Lordhair:

Hormones that cause hair loss
Understanding hair loss after pregnancy
Onion juice for hair loss recovery
Genetic hair loss: Everything covered

Poor nutrition

Yes, you read it right! Hair health is closely linked to your overall nutrition as well. A diet lacking in essential nutrients (particularly vitamins and minerals like biotin, iron, and zine) can weaken your hair shafts and follicles, So, lack of essential nutrients in everyday diet can lead to hair thinning and promote receding hairlines in M-shaped.
A balanced diet which consists of hair-boosting nutrients can help you improve the overall health of your hair, promoting stronger and more uniform growth. As Derek Rydall also once said, “We become what we eat”.

Stress

Chronic stress disrupts the natural hair growth cycle. According to recent studies, high stress levels trigger a condition called telogen effluvium. For those who don’t know, it is a hair loss condition where a significant number of hair follicles prematurely enter the resting phase, causing strands to shed. This stress-induced hair loss can affect the hairline, making it appear uneven or M-shaped.

Hairstyling habits

How could we not talk about this? Indeed, your choice of hair care practices can significantly impact your hairline. Frequent use of heat-based styling tools such as flat irons and curling irons can damage the hair shaft and follicles. In fact, harsh chemical treatments and overuse of hair products (such as regular shampoos and conditioners) with strong chemicals can also weaken your hair.
Additionally, vigorously brushing the wet hair or tying hair too tightly can contribute to an M-shaped hairline.

Treatments and Lifestyle Changes for M-shaped Hairline

Now that we have thoroughly understood the causes that contribute to M-shaped hairline in both male and females, it’s important to explore whether something can be done about it. The good news is, there are some treatments and lifestyle changes that may help you improve the condition of your hairline:

Here’s a list of M-shaped hairline solutions to consider:

Proper nutrition

Already discussed earlier, eating a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients like vitamins, minerals, and proteins is crucial for promoting healthy hair growth. Foods like leafy green vegetables, eggs, nuts, and fish are excellent choices to incorporate into your diet. Known for being rich in nutrients, these superfoods will nourish your hair follicles, strengthen them and protect you from getting m-shaped hairlines.

Check out this list to learn more about foods to prevent hair loss!

Scalp massages

Simple as they may seem, regular scalp massages can improve blood circulation to the hair follicles. This increased blood flow will help you deliver more oxygen and nutrients to the hair roots at the front of your scalp, encouraging healthier hair growth.
To perform a scalp massage, use gentle, circular motions with your fingertips, working your way from the forehead to the nape of your neck. This simple practice can be performed two to three times a week and may lead to a more even hairline over time.

Stress management

Stress management techniques such as meditation, yoga, and deep breathing exercises can also help you reduce stress-related frontal hair loss. These practices have a calming effect on the body and mind, promoting overall well-being and healthier hair growth. They lower the body’s production of stress hormones like cortisol which negatively affect the hair growth cycle.

Some dermatologists also state that stress management exercises stabilize hormone levels and reduce the risk of hair thinning and recession of the hairline.

Gentle hairstyling

Another valuable lifestyle tip that males and females should consider for avoiding m-shaped hairlines! Instead of wearing tight hairstyles that can lead to traction alopecia, opt for looser hairstyles and use hair accessories that are not overly restrictive. These gentle hair care practices will help you prevent excessive stress on your hair follicles and encourage more even growth.

Healthy hair care routine

Maintaining a healthy hair care routine is vital for preventing further hair issues. Use mild, sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners to protect your hair around the forehead from damage. Cut out on heat-based styling and chemical treatments as both of these can weaken strands and lead to m-shaped hairlines.

Not to mention, use a wide-tooth comb to reduce the risk of breakage when detangling wet hair. While these tips may appear simple, they will help ensure the strength and uniform growth of your hair at the front of the scalp.

Use frontal hairpieces

Let’s be honest - while the previous methods can be effective for many, they might not work for everyone. If you’ve tried various solutions and are still struggling with the M-shaped hairline problem, there’s no need to lose all hope. Frontal hair pieces have emerged as a game-changer for men fighting off frontal hairline damage!

Also known as men’s toupees and partial wigs for women, these are non-surgical solutions designed to conceal the hair damage of your existing uneven hairline. They seamlessly integrate with your frontal hair, providing an instant fix and creating a more balanced and visually appealing frontal hairline.

Lordhair frontal hair pieces can be customized to your specific needs. Meaning, you can literally design the one that perfectly fits your hair and hairline goals. They are easy to wear and maintain, offering a practical and effective way to address m-shaped hairline. You don't even need to shave the rest of your head like you do for regular-sized hair systems!

Check out the difference our premium frontal hair piece made to one of our customers:

Recover From M-shaped Hairline

We've shared valuable insights into treatments and lifestyle changes to address an M-shaped hairline in 2024. Remember, understanding the root causes and taking proactive steps can go a long way in achieving the hairline you desire. If you've tried various methods and still find yourself struggling with an M-shaped hairline, don't lose hope. We recommend trying out a frontal hairpiece. These innovative non-surgical solutions can offer a quick and effective way to regain confidence and attain the appearance you've been striving for.

At Lordhair, we specialize in crafting frontal hair pieces designed to blend seamlessly with your natural hair, providing a discreet and natural look. Don't let an M-shaped hairline hold you back! Explore the possibilities and experience the transformation a frontal hairpiece can offer.
Get in touch with us to learn more about our range of non-surgical hair recovery units and take the first step toward a more confident you!