V Balding and Hair Loss: Meaning, Causes, Recovery, and Treatments

Let’s be honest, hair loss can be a drag! It hits everyone differently. Out of all the major hair loss patterns, V-shaped baldness is the most scary, and adds many years to your overall look. But fear not because Lordhair is here with a detailed guide to understand this specific type of hair loss!
In this blog, our team of hair loss and hair system experts will delve into reasons behind V-shape pattern baldness, explore what stage it falls into, and discuss different treatments available. So, ditch the worry and get ready to learn everything you need to know about V balding.

What is V-shape Baldness?

Ever noticed a hairline that dips down in a pointed V shape at the center of the forehead? That, our friend, is V-shaped baldness. Imagine a widow’s peak but instead of a gentle point, the hairline plunges further back. Thus, creating a distinct V.

Unlike the receding temples of M-pattern baldness, V-balding targets the center of your forehead. It’s a unique kind of hair loss. We bet most of you right now are thinking, "You mentioned about widow's peak. How can we tell if it's that or V-shape balding? What are the signs?"

What’s the Difference Between V Balding and Widow’s Peak?

There’s no doubt that V-shaped baldness and a widow’s thinning look like close cousins. But there are differences between these two hairline shapes. For instance, a widow’s peak is a permanent feature. Meaning, you’re born with it and it stays put throughout your life.

V-balding, on the other hand, is a progressive form of hair loss. It starts with a slight dip in the hairline and gradually recedes further back in a V-shape over time. However, this isn’t the only thing that separates them from each other! Here are more points on how to tell them apart:

Shape: While both involve a pointed dip in the center of the forehead, a widow’s peak is typically shallower and more pointed. V-baldness creates a deeper V. With hair receding more noticeably on either side of the point.

Hair density: One of the biggest aspects to consider! A widow’s peak doesn’t affect the overall density of your hair. Although hair around the point might be slightly thinner, it generally remains full. V-baldness, however, is a form of hair loss.

You’ll notice that as your hairline recedes, hair in a V-shaped area thins out and eventually disappears.

Still unsure whether you have a widow’s peak or V-baldness? Consider how long you’ve had the V-shape in your hairline. Has it been there since childhood and not changed significantly as time passed? It’s likely a widow’s peak! Is it a recent development? Noticing hair thinning in the V area? Then V-balding might be at play.

Note: Consulting a dermatologist can also help you get a definitive diagnosis.

What Male Pattern Baldness Stage is V-Balding?

Now that you know about the differences between widow’s peak and V-balding, it’s time to move to another burning question i.e. At what stage does V-balding come? To understand the answer, you need to get an idea of the different stages of hair loss.

Yes, you read tight! Just like stair steps, there are different stages of male pattern baldness. Norwood-Hamilton scale provides a helpful framework for understanding its progression. Here’s breakdown of MPB’s stages:

Stage 1: This is the starting point. Here, there’s no minimal to noticeable hair loss or rescission. Most men wouldn’t even suspect they’re on the path to balding at this stage.

Stage 2: This is where subtle changes become apparent. In stage 2, the hairline begins to recede slightly at the temples. A mature hairline can be seen with a higher forehead. This might be the first sign that hair loss is on the way.

Stage 3: Stage 3 marks a more evident shift. As hairline recession progresses, you’ll begin to notice distinct patterns. In some men, M or U pattern can be seen. Others, however, may notice a V-shape in the center of their foreheads.

Stage 4: Your V-balding expands in stage 4. Receding temples will continue to retreat. Hair thinning will become noticeable at the crown of the head.

Stage 5: By stage 5, your hairline recession will reach a whole new level! V-shape will then begin to change into U-shape in some men. With a significant bald area on the crown and narrow band of hair remaining around the sides and back of head, of course.

Stage 6: Stage 6… well, it will see a further advancement of hair loss. Bald patches at the temples and crown widen considerably, exposing a larger portion of the scalp. The remaining hair? It also becomes increasingly thin!

Stage 7: The final stage of Norwood scale represents the most extensive hair loss. Your V-hairline will recede all the way to the crown. It will leave a limited amount of very thin hair on the sides and back of the scalp.

Make sure to check out these sources as well:

M-shape hairline in males and females
Hormones that cause hair loss
Onion juice for hair loss recovery
Genetic hair loss: Everything covered

What Causes V-balding in Men?

There you have your answer - V-balding starts at stage 3 and if you don’t stop it on time, the condition might get worse and there’s no coming back for your hair. But hey, aren’t we forgetting something? *Thinks*

Oh yes, before jumping straight to treatments, we should be talking about, “What triggers this specific pattern of hair loss?” While the exact cause remains under investigation, dermatologists believe that several factors are likely at play.

Here’s a deep dive into the potential culprits behind V-shaped baldness:

#1 Genetics & androgenetic alopecia

Ah yes, genetics! The most common culprit in male pattern baldness including V-shaped receding hairlines. You inherit genes from both parents that influence your sensitivity to a hormone called dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT shrinks hair follicles, shortening the hair growth cycle and eventually leading to miniaturization.

For those who don’t know, miniaturization is when follicles produce finer, thinner strands until they stop producing hair altogether. V-shape baldness might be linked to specific genetic variations that affect how DHT interacts with your hair follicles. Particularly those located in the central scalp.

#2 DHT sensitivity and Enzyme activity

Since we’ve mentioned DHT in the previous point, it totally makes sense to talk about DHT sensitivity and its relation with enzyme activity! Dermatologists state that the enzyme 5-alpha reductase is also responsible for converting testosterone into DHT. Men with V-shaped baldness might have a higher level of 5-alpha reductase activity in the scalp, leading to increased DHT production.

Additionally, their hair follicles might be hypersensitive to even normal levels of DHT. We bet you’ve figured out what this means… High susceptibility to miniaturization and hair loss (particularly in V-shape).

#3 Inflammation and blood flow

Emerging research points to a potential role for inflammation in hair loss. Yes, it is believed that chronic inflammation in the scalp might disrupt the hair growth cycle and contribute to the shrinking of follicles. Reduced blood flow to the scalp could also be a factor. How? Because just like every single body part, hair follicles also require proper blood flow for nutrient delivery and optimal function.

#4 Environmental factors and lifestyle

One of the most common causes of V balding in men. Although not directly, certain lifestyle factors might influence its progression:

Stress: Chronic stress can elevate cortisol levels. These may indirectly contribute to hair fall.

Diet: Consuming too much junk food? Having nutritional deficiencies, particularly in iron, zinc, and B vitamins? Both can affect hair health and lead to V-shape baldness.

Smoking: While you may think smoking makes you look no less than mafia, the truth is it restricts blood flow to the scalp. Figured out what it accelerates? Yes, hair loss!

#5 Medical conditions

In rare cases, V-shaped baldness could be associated with underlying medical conditions like thyroid disorders, autoimmune diseases, and scalp infections. In case you think your hair loss condition is triggered by any of these, consider consulting a dermatologist. They can help you rule out these possibilities!

It’s crucial to recognize that the exact cause of V-shaped baldness is likely a combination of factors we’ve told you above. Not to mention, individual experiences can differ. While some men only encounter a mild V-shaped rescission (of Stage 3), others might progress to a more advanced stage.

You must be thinking if there's any way to regain hair after V-shaped baldness. The sad truth - you can’t recover the hair that has been lost. While there’s no guaranteed cure even in the medical world, there are ways to manage it. And of course, potentially slow down the progression.

What are Ways to Slow Down V-shape Balding Progression?

Facing V-shaped baldness can be exhausting. But the good news is these strategies can help you potentially slow down its progression:

#1 Addressing DHT levels using medications

Okay, DHT remains the main villain in V-shaped baldness. But some medications can help you potentially manage its impact. Some FDA-approved medications like fin block the conversion of testosterone to DHT, slowing down hair loss and promoting some regrowth.

Other topical medications like minoxidil can also help you stimulate hair growth and might be used in conjunction with finasteride. It doesn’t directly affect DHT but may extend the hair growth phase. However, make sure to take precautions because these medications have their share of side effects.

#2 Scalp health optimization

We bet you’ve already guessed what our next baldness recovery recommendation is going to be about! A healthy scalp environment can help you put a halt to V-shape baldness and promote little hair growth. You can gently massage your scalp daily to improve blood circulation. This will help you deliver more nutrients to hair follicles.

Another tip is to maintain a clean scalp. How? By using a gentle shampoo. It will help you remove excess oil and dirt without stripping natural oils. Avoid the regular shampoo and conditioner sitting on your bathroom shelf as they comprise harmful chemicals.

You can also switch to a healthy diet. Ensure the food you eat is rich in essential nutrients like iron, zinc, B vitamins, and protein - all of which play a role in improving hair health.

#3 Lifestyle modification

Making certain changes to your lifestyle can potentially benefit your overall well-being and indirectly support hair health. Let’s start with stress management! Chronic stress can exacerbate hair fall. Practice relaxation techniques like meditation, yoga, and deep breathing to effectively manage your stress.

You can also consider these lifestyle modifications:

Adequate sleep: Not sleeping enough? Aim for 7-8 hours of quality sleep each night. Sleep deprivation can disrupt hormonal balance which contributes to V-pattern baldness.

Stop smoking: Remember we told you how smoking restricts blood flow to the scalp and might accelerate hair loss? Well, guess what? You have to quit smoking! By doing so, you can improve overall health and potentially benefit strand growth!

#4 Hair systems

V-shaped baldness often progresses aggressively and leaves the men in need for a more immediate solution. Non-surgical hair recovery units can be a great option for such gentlemen! Also called toupee hair replacement systems, men’s hairpieces, and hair patches, they offer a natural-looking, quick way to achieve a fuller head of hair.

Lordhair stands out as a reliable source for buying high-quality hair systems. Our hairpieces are crafted with comfort in mind. We use breathable materials that won’t irritate your scalp and feel super comfy.

Lordhair also offers a variety of styles and colors in hair systems so that men suffering from V-shaped balding can achieve a hyper-realistic look. A look that also compliments their remaining scalp hair! Our hair units - whether they are lace hair systems, hair integration system, or skin hair systems - are offered at competitive prices. Put simply, you can regain your confidence without burning a hole in your pocket!

Check out how amazing Michael looks after wearing our premium thin skin hair replacement:

Recover from V-shape Baldness

There you go!

We told you everything about V balding in men. As you saw, there’s no single answer to the “why” behind V-shaped hair loss. But now that you're aware of potential causes, you shouldn't be having problems while exploring and opting for the right solutions.

Also, keep in mind that tackling V-baldness is no less than a journey. From medications to Lordhair’s hair replacement systems, make sure you pick the option that best fits your hair loss recovery goals.

Got any queries to ask? Feel free to contact us. Our hair experts will be more than happy to assist you!