The Class A variation of the Norwood scale is a slightly different and less common progression of hair loss. The main differences are that the hairline recedes back uniformly, without leaving an island of hair in the middle, and there is no bald area at the vertex. Instead, the hairline progresses directly from front to back.
Equally effective for Class A as for standard pattern. Blocks DHT to halt the uniform recession.
Apply along the entire receding frontal line. The uniform pattern means even distribution is easier.
Surgical planning is often simpler — creating a straight, natural frontal hairline rather than filling temple points. Graft count depends on how far back the line has receded.
Since Class A is less common, monitoring progression is important. Take photos from the same angle every 3 months.
The Class A variation is a less common hair loss pattern where the hairline recedes uniformly from front to back, without forming the typical M-shape. There is no distinct island of hair in the middle of the hairline, and the crown area does not thin separately. Instead, the entire front line moves backward evenly.
The Class A variation is significantly less common than the standard Norwood pattern. Estimates suggest it affects about 3-5% of men with male pattern baldness. Because it is less common, it is sometimes misdiagnosed or confused with other conditions like frontal fibrosing alopecia.
Treatment is similar to standard Norwood stages (finasteride + minoxidil), but hair transplant planning differs. Since the recession is uniform, surgeons can create a natural straight hairline rather than filling in temple points. The uniform pattern often means a simpler surgical plan but may require more grafts for the full frontal band.
Upload a photo to determine if you have a standard or Class A pattern.
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