
The Norwood Scale: A guide to male pattern baldness and treatments
The Norwood Scale: A guide to male pattern baldness and treatments
What is the Norwood scale?
The Norwood scale, also known as the Hamilton-Norwood scale, is the most commonly used classification system to measure the degree of male pattern baldness. The scale consists of seven stages that describe how the hairline and scalp are affected by hereditary hair loss (also known as androgenetic alopecia). By identifying which stage you are in, you and your specialist at a hair clinic in Malmö can decide which treatment is best for you.

Stages of the Norwood Scale
Step 1: No visible hair loss
The hairline is intact and there is no noticeable change.
Step 2: Early regression of the hairline
Some men begin to experience a slight retraction of the hairline at the temples, which can create a more defined M-shaped hairline.
Step 3: More marked receding of the hairline
The hairline recedes further at the temples, forming a more pronounced M, U or V shape.
Stage 4: Pronounced hair loss on the scalp
The hairline recedes and thinning hair on the scalp becomes more apparent. A narrow strip of hair may still separate the two areas.
Step 5: Even greater hair loss
The hair-bearing strip on the scalp becomes thinner and the bald areas increase in size.
Step 6: Advanced baldness
The head and forehead are now largely connected, and the hairline has receded further.
Step 7: Complete baldness at the top
Only a strip of hair around the sides and back of the head remains, while the rest of the head is bare.
Causes of male pattern baldness
Male pattern baldness is mainly caused by genetic and hormonal factors. The hormone dihydrotestosterone (DHT ) causes hair follicles to shrink, leading to thinner and weaker hair. Over time, hair stops growing completely.
Other factors that can contribute to hair loss include:
- Stress - can accelerate hair loss by impairing the hair follicle growth cycle.
- Poor diet - lack of vitamins and minerals such as biotin, zinc and vitamin D.
- Illness and medication - some illnesses and medicines can cause temporary or permanent hair loss.
Hair loss treatment in Malmö
If you are experiencing hair loss, there are several treatment options. At our hair clinic in Malmö, we offer proven and effective methods to restore your hair.
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) treatment
A natural treatment where we take your own blood, separate out platelets and inject the plasma into your scalp. PRP can:
- Improve the health of hair follicles
- Prevent further hair loss
- Stimulate new hair growth
Hair transplant in Malmö
For men with more advanced hair loss, a hair transplant is an effective and permanent solution. We offer the Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE) method, where we transplant hair follicles from the back of the head to the areas where hair loss is most severe.
Medicines for hair loss
- Minoxidil (topical solution) stimulates hair follicles and improves blood circulation in the scalp.
- Finasteride (tablet treatment) blocks DHT and can slow down hair loss.
Book a consultation at our hair clinic in Malmö
Whether you're just starting to experience hair loss or you've had it for years, there are effective solutions. At ZARC Hair Clinic in Malmö, we offer personalized consultations to help you find the best treatment for your particular situation.
Contact us today for a free consultation and take the first step towards stronger and fuller hair!