The Vertex on The Head and Its Role in Male Pattern Hair Loss

Medically reviewedby Dr. Amy Revene M.B.B.S.
WrittenbyLuat Duong
Last updated

Male pattern hair loss, also known as androgenetic alopecia, is a common form of hair loss that affects millions of men around the world

This type of hair loss is characterized by a receding hairline and thinning of hair at the crown and vertex of the scalp. 

The vertex on the head, which refers to the highest point on the top of the scalp, plays an important role in male pattern hair loss. 

In this article, we will explore the anatomy of the vertex on the head, the causes and diagnosis of male pattern hair loss, and the various treatments and prevention methods available to combat this condition.

Anatomy of the vertex on the head

vertex on the head

The vertex on the head is a crucial landmark on the scalp, located at the highest point of the skull. This area is often referred to as the crown, and it is where hair typically grows in a circular pattern. 

The vertex is made up of multiple layers of skin, hair follicles, and blood vessels. 

Hair growth on the vertex is regulated by the hair growth cycle, which consists of three phases: anagen, catagen, and telogen. 

During the anagen phase, hair follicles grow and divide, while during the catagen phase, hair growth slows down and the hair follicle begins to shrink.

Finally, during the telogen phase, the hair rests before falling out and being replaced by new hair growth.

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Four principal areas of the scalp

The scalp is composed of four principal areas that are important to understand when it comes to hair loss and restoration. These areas include:

  • Frontal Region (Central Forelock): Covers the hairline and hair around the temples, and is often the first area where hair loss is noticeable in men experiencing androgenic alopecia.
  • Mid-Scalp Region (Posterior Mid Scalp): Located behind the frontal region, this area is commonly affected by hair loss in the advanced stages of male pattern baldness.
  • Vertex Transition Zone (Vertex Transition Point): Located between the mid-scalp region and the crown, this area is important for creating density and reducing the appearance of baldness at the back of the head.
  • Crown (Vertex): Located at the highest point of the scalp, this area is at the back of the head and can be affected by male pattern baldness in the form of a visible horseshoe-shaped pattern of hair loss.

Understanding these four principal areas of the scalp is crucial when considering hair restoration treatments such as hair transplant surgery. 

By targeting these specific areas, specialists can create a natural-looking hair pattern and improve overall density, restoring confidence and helping patients feel more comfortable in their own skin.

What causes vertex hair loss?

hair loss process, lose hair, appropriate treatment, entire scalp

Vertex baldness, also known as male pattern hair loss, is a prevalent form of hair loss that predominantly affects men.

Here are some factors that can cause vertex hair loss:

  • Androgenetic alopecia: Vertex hair loss is commonly associated with androgenetic alopecia or male pattern baldness, which is caused by genetic and hormonal factors.
  • Genetics: Vertex hair loss can be inherited from one or both parents, with the inheritance pattern depending on the genes involved.
  • Hormonal imbalances: Hormonal imbalances, including imbalances in the androgen hormone, can contribute to vertex hair loss.
  • Age: As we age, hair growth can slow down and hair follicles may become smaller, leading to hair loss on the vertex of the scalp.
  • Stress: Stress has been linked to hair loss and can contribute to vertex hair loss in some individuals.
  • Nutritional deficiencies: A lack of certain nutrients, such as iron and vitamin D, can contribute to hair loss on the vertex of the scalp.
  • Medical conditions: Medical conditions such as thyroid disorders and autoimmune diseases can cause vertex hair loss.
  • Medications: Certain medications, including those used to treat cancer and high blood pressure, can cause hair loss on the vertex of the scalp.
  • Trauma: Physical trauma to the scalp, such as from burns or injuries, can damage hair follicles and lead to vertex hair loss.

How do you treat vertex baldness?

There are several treatment options available for individuals experiencing vertex baldness. Here are some common ways to treat vertex baldness:

Scandinavian Biolabs Hair Growth Routine

posterior scalp, scandinavian biolabs for vertex baldness, receding hairline

Scandinavian Biolabs offers a 3-step system to help reduce hair loss, support the growth of new hair, and maintain strong and healthy hair, specifically targeting vertex baldness. 

The clinically tested Bio-Pilixin® Serum has been shown to be effective in reducing hair loss and encouraging new hair growth in just 150 days, with 93% of users reporting satisfaction with the results. 

The system is drug-free and safe for everyday use, making it an easy and convenient option for those looking to improve their hair health.

The effective active ingredients in the formula are chosen based on scientific literature and are all evaluated by a third-party laboratory to ensure quality. 

All ingredients are 100% vegan, and the formula is inspired by nature with many naturally-derived ingredients or produced to mimic the same molecular structure. 

The serum is non-medicated and free from any prescription-strength ingredients, making it a safe option for those experiencing vertex baldness. The formula has been dermatologically tested to ensure it is safe for use.

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Medications

Medications can be an effective treatment option for individuals experiencing vertex baldness. Two of the most commonly prescribed medications for male pattern baldness are minoxidil and finasteride, both of which have been approved by the FDA for this specific purpose.

Minoxidil is a topical solution that is applied directly to the scalp. It works by increasing blood flow to the hair follicles, which in turn promotes hair growth. Minoxidil is typically used twice daily, and it may take several months to see noticeable results.

Finasteride is an oral medication that works by blocking the production of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which is a hormone that can cause hair follicles to shrink and eventually stop producing new hair growth.

Finasteride is typically taken once daily, and it may take several months to see noticeable results.

Read this: How To Stop Hair Loss And Regrow Hair Naturally? - A Story

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy 

PRP therapy is a non-surgical treatment that involves injecting the patient's own plasma, rich in growth factors, into the scalp to promote hair growth on the vertex.

Although generally safe, it may not be effective for everyone and can be relatively expensive. It's important to discuss potential risks and benefits with a specialist to determine if it's the right treatment for your case.

Laser therapy

LLLT is a non-invasive treatment for vertex baldness that uses low-level laser light to stimulate hair growth. It's typically administered in a clinic or with at-home devices, and is painless with no downtime.

The mechanism of action is not fully understood, but it's believed to stimulate ATP production and increase blood flow to the scalp.

LLLT may not be effective for everyone, and several treatments may be required. Consulting a specialist is important to determine if LLLT is a suitable option and to discuss potential risks and benefits.

Hair transplant surgery

Hair transplant surgery is a procedure that involves moving hair follicles from a healthy area of the scalp to the balding or thinning area, typically the vertex.

It's performed under local anesthesia and can take several hours. There are two methods, FUT and FUE, and the choice will depend on individual needs.

It's a surgical procedure with potential risks and complications, so it's important to consult with an experienced surgeon to determine if it's the right treatment option.

Read this: The 12 Best Natural and Drug Hair Transplant Alternatives

Conclusion

Hair loss is a common condition that affects many individuals, particularly men, as they age. While it can be a source of frustration and embarrassment, there are several treatment options available that can help slow down or stop hair loss and promote hair growth in the affected areas. 

These treatments range from non-invasive options, such as low-level laser therapy and PRP therapy, to more invasive options, such as hair transplant surgery.

In addition to medications, hair transplant surgery, and low-level laser therapy, natural products like the Scandinavian Biolabs Hair Growth Routine offers a plant-based solution to promote hair growth and reduce hair loss.

This system has been clinically tested and contains multiple plant growth factors that help to nurture hair follicles and encourage growth.

It's important to consult with a specialist to determine which treatment option is best suited to your individual needs and to discuss the potential risks and benefits of each. 

With the right treatment, it is possible to get back a fuller, younger-looking head of hair and feel good about how you look again.

References:

  1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4812885/
  2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6691938/
  3. https://www.oatext.com/Long-term-(10-year)-efficacy-of-finasteride-in-523-Japanese-men-with-androgenetic-alopecia.php

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Luat Duong

Luat Duong is a Copenhagen-based writer and content strategist specializing in hair loss and health. His work has been featured in MyHealthGuide, The Right Hairstyles, and Woman's Era. He is a graduate of Vaasa University. You can connect with him on LinkedIn.