Does Male Pattern Baldness Cause Shedding of Black Hair?

Does male pattern baldness cause the loss of all black hair?

I recently started to notice that the few strands of hair I found online that are completely black (with black roots) indicate that there may be an issue with my scalp.
However, I only discovered one or two such hairs while showering (I wash my hair daily, and sometimes I notice them every other day or consecutively).
Sometimes the roots are black, with a lighter color just above the roots, and then completely black.
Occasionally, the roots are thinner, but there are only one or two such hairs, and for now, the thickness seems normal.
Am I starting to have a problem? Additionally, there are a few strands that are of normal thickness but very short, with white roots.
Is that a concern?

ivan wong, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/01/25

Dr. Wu Yuxin reply Dermatology

Male pattern baldness does not necessarily result in the complete loss of all black hair; it typically begins with miniaturization of the hair follicles before eventual hair loss occurs.

Reply Date: 2022/01/25

More Info

Male Pattern Baldness (MPB), also known as androgenetic alopecia, is a common form of hair loss that affects many men as they age. It is characterized by a progressive thinning of hair, typically starting at the temples and crown of the head. One of the key features of MPB is that it does not necessarily cause the shedding of black hair specifically; rather, it leads to a gradual miniaturization of hair follicles, resulting in finer and shorter hair over time.

When you notice hair shedding, particularly in the shower, it is important to consider the normal range of hair loss. On average, it is normal to lose about 50 to 100 hairs a day due to the natural hair growth cycle. The hair you are observing, which has a black root, indicates that it is likely in the anagen (growth) phase of the hair cycle. The presence of lighter-colored roots may suggest that those hairs are transitioning to the telogen (resting) phase, which is a normal part of the hair growth cycle.

In your case, the fact that you are noticing only one or two black hairs falling out daily does not necessarily indicate a significant problem. However, if you observe an increase in hair shedding or changes in the overall density of your hair, it may be worth consulting a dermatologist or a trichologist for a thorough evaluation. They can assess your scalp health, hair density, and any potential underlying conditions that may be contributing to your hair loss.

Regarding the short hairs with white roots, this could indicate that these hairs are in the early stages of growth or are in the telogen phase. White roots can sometimes be associated with hair that is not fully pigmented or may indicate a lack of melanin, but this is not inherently a cause for concern. It is common for hair to vary in thickness and length, and the presence of shorter hairs can be a normal part of the hair growth cycle.

It is also important to consider other factors that can contribute to hair loss, such as genetics, hormonal changes, stress, and environmental factors. If you have a family history of male pattern baldness, you may be genetically predisposed to experiencing similar hair loss patterns. Stress, in particular, can exacerbate hair loss conditions, leading to conditions like telogen effluvium, where hair follicles prematurely enter the resting phase.

In summary, while Male Pattern Baldness does not specifically cause the shedding of black hair, it can lead to overall hair thinning and changes in hair texture. The occasional shedding of one or two hairs, especially if they are black and have a healthy root, is typically not a cause for alarm. However, if you are concerned about your hair loss or notice significant changes, seeking professional advice is recommended. A dermatologist can provide a comprehensive evaluation and discuss potential treatment options if necessary.

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