Hair Loss Issues in Men and Women Over 40: What Can Be Done?

You notice it in the mirror first—your hairline looks slightly higher, your crown seems a little “see-through” under bright lights, or your parting keeps widening no matter how you style it. What once felt like normal shedding can gradually become visible thinning that affects not only your appearance, but also your confidence.

Hair loss after 40 rarely happens overnight, yet it can feel sudden once it becomes noticeable. It is also extremely common with age, with around 85% of men and 33% of women experiencing some form of hair loss at some point in life.

The good news is that not all hair loss is permanent, and many cases can improve with the right diagnosis and a realistic, consistent plan.

This guide explains why thinning often accelerates after 40, what “reversal” can genuinely mean, and the non-surgical options to support healthier, fuller-looking hair—discreetly and safely.

Hair Loss Patterns After 40

When your hair starts to change after 40, it can be difficult to describe what you’re seeing, especially when it feels different from usual daily shedding. Before choosing any hair restoration approach, it’s important to identify the pattern of hair loss, as this helps determine the most likely cause and the most effective treatment strategy.

1. Receding Hairline or Thinning Crown

This pattern is usually a sign of androgenetic alopecia (male pattern hair loss)—the most common cause of progressive thinning in men. It’s a gradual, genetically influenced: follicles become sensitive to androgens (especially DHT), so hair grows back finer and shorter over time.

How it shows up:

An M-shaped recession at the temples
A thinning crown/vertex that gradually becomes a bald spot
A predictable pattern of change, often described using the Norwood–Hamilton scale

Causes:

Genetic predisposition (family history)
DHT sensitivity at the follicles (gradual miniaturisation over time)
Age-related slowing of the hair growth cycle (shorter growth phase, more visible thinning)
Scalp inflammation or poor scalp condition (can weaken growth and increase shedding)
Lifestyle/ health factors (chronic stress, poor sleep, certain medications, or nutritional gaps) that can worsen shedding

2. Widening Part Line or Overall Thinning

This pattern is often linked to female pattern hair loss (female androgenetic alopecia). Instead of forming one clear bald patch, it tends to show up as gradual, diffuse thinning, especially over the top of the scalp—so hair looks less dense and harder to style.

How it shows up:

A widening centre part (more scalp visible along the part line)
Thinning or reduced volume across the top/ crown, rather than a single bald spot
Hair that feels finer, flatter, or doesn’t “hold” a style as well
A thinner ponytail over time
Often the front hairline is preserved, even when the top thins

Causes:

Hormonal shifts during perimenopause/menopause can affect the hair growth cycle and hair thickness
Genetic predisposition
Increased follicle sensitivity to androgens, which can gradually weaken hair over time
Age-related slowing of hair growth cycles
Sometimes it overlaps with telogen effluvium triggers (e.g., chronic stress, low iron, thyroid imbalance), which can make thinning look worse

3. Excess Shedding and Slow Regrowth

This pattern often points to telogen effluvium (a shedding condition) or slower hair regeneration. Instead of losing hair in a clear pattern (like the temples or crown), you lose more hair overall, and it can feel like your hair simply isn’t recovering the way it used to.

How it shows up:

Noticeably more hair shedding when washing, brushing, or on your pillow
Overall thinning rather than one obvious bald spot
Hair strands feel finer, weaker, or more fragile
Hair takes longer to look full again after a shedding phase
A ponytail that feels thinner over time (common complaint)

Causes:

Chronic stress or poor sleep (keeps the body in a prolonged “stress mode”)
Nutritional gaps, especially low iron/ferritin, vitamin D, and low protein intake
Thyroid imbalance (more common with age and can affect shedding)
Recent illness, surgery, or major life changes (the body redirects energy away from hair growth)
Medications or rapid weight loss can disrupt the growth cycle

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Understanding Hair Loss Reversal

When you’re watching your hair thin, it’s easy to assume nothing will change unless it gets worse. In reality, hair loss behaves differently depending on the cause and the stage. The possibility of improvement depends on what’s happening at the follicle level and how the hair growth cycle is being affected.

How hair regrowth treatments work

Most effective approaches focus on one or more of the following:

Extending the growth phase (anagen): so hair stays in the growing stage longer and appears fuller over time
Reducing shedding: by stabilising the cycle and limiting the number of hairs that shift into the resting/shedding phase at once
Improving follicle “signal strength”: stimulating dormant or sluggish follicles so they produce thicker, stronger hairs
Optimising the scalp environment: improving circulation support and reducing inflammation, because a healthier scalp supports better growth
Targeting pattern-hair-loss drivers: for those with androgenetic alopecia, supporting follicles against gradual miniaturisation is key

What determines how much can improve

The extent of improvement depends on a few key factors, including:

How early you start: earlier stages typically respond better because more follicles are still active
How long thinning has been progressing: longer-standing thinning usually needs more time, and often a combination of approaches
Your diagnosis: shedding-related hair loss may recover well once triggers are managed, while pattern loss often requires ongoing support
Consistency: most options take months, not weeks, to show visible change

Hair grows slowly, so progress is gradual. Many people first notice reduced shedding, followed by a stronger texture and visible changes in density over the next few months.

Non-Surgical Hair Growth Treatments

It can sometimes feel as though hair loss is impossible to reverse without surgery. In reality, the truth is more encouraging: many types of thinning can improve with the right diagnosis, consistent treatment, and realistic expectations.

1. Radiofrequency Scalp Therapy

Radiofrequency (RF) scalp therapy is a non-invasive treatment that supports scalp health by stimulating scalp tissue activity.

It is often used to help optimise the scalp environment—supporting local metabolism and circulation, improving scalp elasticity, and reducing inflammatory stress. Over time, this may support stronger hair fibre quality and healthier-looking growth, particularly in early thinning.

Procedure:

Hands-free scalp application
30–40 minutes
Typically 1–2 times per week (as advised)

Best for:

Diffuse thinning / early hair loss (supporting scalp health and follicle activity)
People who prefer a non-invasive option (no needles)

Pros	Cons
Non-invasive and comfortable (no needles)	Works best as a course of sessions (not a one-off)
No downtime; low-commitment sessions	Results are gradual and vary by individual
Suitable for those avoiding medication-based approaches	Often more supportive for early stages than a standalone fix for advanced loss
Good “foundation” option for scalp support
Can be combined with other therapies to enhance results

At Pure Touch, RF scalp therapy is available using Indiba Hairwave. This comfortable, needle-free treatment supports scalp health and is ideal for early thinning or diffuse hair loss. So what are you waiting for? Book your hair loss assessment today!

2. Theradome Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT)

Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) is a light-based treatment that supports the hair growth cycle by delivering controlled laser light to the scalp. It is commonly used for early thinning to help reduce shedding and improve the appearance of density over time, with consistency being key.

Procedure:

Wearable laser helmet (at-home)
20 minutes per session
Typical frequency depends on model

Best for:

Early diffuse thinning (women’s widening part, mild male thinning)
Men and women who want a needle-free option and can commit to consistency

Pros	Cons
Convenient and painless (needle-free)	Requires consistency over months
Suitable for both men and women	Best suited to early thinning
Easy to maintain alongside clinic treatments	Results vary between individuals
Shedding may reduce in 1–3 months, with improved thickness and density in 3–6 months.	Maintenance use is usually needed

At Pure Touch, LLLT is available using FDA-cleared devices such as Theradome. This painless, needle-free laser helmet is designed for consistent use and early-stage thinning. Contact us today to see if LLLT is right for you!

3. Growth-Supporting Scalp Injections (Non-Hormonal)

Growth-supporting scalp injections deliver nourishing ingredients directly into thinning areas to help strengthen follicles, improve scalp condition, and reduce excessive shedding. Over the course of repeated sessions, this can support healthier regrowth and improved hair quality.

Procedure:

Micro-injections into the scalp (performed by a doctor)
~20–30 minutes
Minimal downtime (mild discomfort possible)

Best for:

Men and women with hair thinning or excessive hair fall
Early to moderate hair loss
Weak, fine, or slow-growing hair
Shedding linked to stress or hormonal changes (including postpartum history)
Those seeking a non-hormonal injectable option

Pros	Cons
Non-hormonal option	Requires multiple sessions (course-based)
Targets follicles directly for stronger support	Involves injections (needle discomfort)
May reduce shedding and improve thickness over time	Results are gradual and vary by individual
Quick procedure with minimal downtime	Mild redness/ swelling/ tenderness can occur for 1–2 days
Can be combined with other hair therapies	Aftercare restrictions for 24 hours (e.g., avoid washing/ exercise/ sauna/ swimming)
Targets key thinning zones (crown, temples, part line)
Useful for more established thinning (early–moderate loss)

At Pure Touch, growth-supporting scalp injections are available using Forte. This doctor-performed, non-hormonal treatment targets thinning areas to help reduce excessive shedding and support stronger regrowth over time. Contact us to book your hair loss assessment!

4. DHT-Targeted Hair Loss Injection

DHT-targeted scalp injections are designed for androgenetic alopecia (pattern hair loss). They work by delivering DHT-blocking medication into thinning areas of the scalp to help slow follicle miniaturisation and support stronger, thicker hair over time, without relying on daily oral medication.

Procedure:

Microinjections performed by a doctor
~15–30 minutes
Minimal downtime (mild discomfort possible)
Typically, every 3–4 weeks

Best for:

Men and women with androgenetic alopecia (pattern hair loss)
People who cannot tolerate or prefer not to take oral medication
Early to moderate hair loss tends to respond best
Those seeking a more targeted, localised approach

Pros	Cons
DHT-targeted approach for pattern hair loss	Requires repeat sessions and consistency
Localised treatment (works at the scalp)	Results are gradual and vary by individual
May reduce hair fall and support thicker growth over time	Mild temporary redness/swelling/tenderness possible
Systemic exposure is generally considered lower than oral forms	Not suitable for pregnant/breastfeeding women
Minimal downtime; quick procedure	Rare: headache or dizziness
Hair fall may reduce in 1–3 months, with improved thickness and density typically noticed around 3–6 months

At Pure Touch, DHT-targeted scalp injections are available using Dutapecia. This doctor-performed treatment works locally at the follicles to help slow pattern hair loss and support thicker, stronger regrowth over time—especially in early to moderate stages. Contact us to book your hair loss assessment.

A Personal Touch to Your Best Features

Feel confident at every stage of life. Our doctors provide personalised, medically guided treatments that enhance what you already have, naturally and safely.

5. PRP Hair Therapy

PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) uses a small sample of your own blood, which is processed to concentrate platelets and growth factors. The PRP is then injected into thinning areas of the scalp to support follicle activity and improve overall hair quality over time.

Procedure:

Blood draw → PRP preparation → microinjections into the scalp
Typically 30–60 minutes (varies by clinic)
Mild discomfort during injections
Minimal (temporary redness or tenderness)

Best for:

Early to moderate thinning (men and women)
Androgenetic alopecia (pattern hair loss)
People looking for a treatment using their own natural components

Pros	Cons
Uses your own blood (autologous approach)	Usually requires multiple sessions
Minimally invasive (no surgery)	Results vary; may be less effective in advanced loss
Often used for pattern hair loss in men and women	Temporary tenderness/swelling possible
Can be combined with other therapies for stronger results	Requires consistency over months

6. Microneedling Scalp Therapy

Microneedling uses fine needles to create controlled microchannels in the scalp. This can support scalp renewal and is commonly used as an “add-on” to enhance treatment response, especially when used alongside PRP, by complementing follicle-stimulation strategies.

Procedure:

Microneedling performed on thinning zones
Often combined with PRP in the same visit (depending on protocol)
Session length varies (commonly 30–60 minutes)
Usually minimal (mild redness or sensitivity)

Best for:

Early to moderate thinning
People already doing PRP who want a boosting add-on
Those who can commit to a course of sessions

Pros	Cons
Commonly used to enhance results when combined with PRP	Must be done hygienically/professionally to reduce risk
Non-surgical and course-based	May cause temporary redness/sensitivity
Can be added to a combination roadmap	Results vary; consistency required

7. Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP)

Scalp micropigmentation is a cosmetic procedure that creates the appearance of fuller hair by depositing pigment in the scalp to mimic hair follicles or enhance the appearance of density between existing hairs. It does not regrow hair, but it can dramatically improve the visual look of coverage.

Procedure:

Pigment is applied in a pattern to match hair colour and density goals
Typically done over multiple sessions for best blending
Usually minimal (short-lived redness)

Best for:

People want immediate visual improvement in thinning areas
Advanced thinning where regrowth may be limited
Those who want a discreet cosmetic option while continuing hair treatments

Pros	Cons
immediate cosmetic improvement in the appearance of density	Does not treat the underlying cause or regrow hair
Non-surgical, no “recovery” like surgery	Touch-ups may be needed over time
Useful for advanced thinning or stubborn areas	Requires a skilled provider for natural-looking results
Can complement regrowth treatments for a fuller overall look	Colour/finish must be matched carefully

Choosing the Right Treatment for Your Hair Loss Stage

Your situation	Suggested starting options
Early thinning (diffuse thinning, widening part, mild shedding)	LLLT (Theradome) or Indiba Hairwave
Moderate pattern loss (temples/crown thinning)	Forte Scalp Injection or Dutapecia Meso Scalp Injection
Advanced or stubborn loss	Combination protocols (e.g., injections + LLLT; add PRP/microneedling if needed). Oral medication may also be considered under doctor supervision, depending on suitability.
Budget-conscious	Start with one core treatment, reassess at 3 months, add a second option only if needed
Time-constrained	Choose lower-frequency options you can stick to consistently (consistency beats intensity)

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Hair Loss Treatment Considerations

Before starting any hair restoration plan, it helps to know what to do before and after treatment to maximise results and minimise unnecessary irritation.

Pre-Treatment: Preparation and Suitability

1. Start with a consultation

Confirm your hair loss type and stage, assess scalp condition (oiliness, dandruff, inflammation), and review your medical history and current medications/supplements.

2. Check suitability

Some treatments may not be recommended if you are pregnant or breastfeeding (especially injections or hormone-related options). Tell your doctor if you have bleeding disorders, are on blood thinners, or have active scalp infections.

3. 24–48 hours before treatment

Avoid hair dye/bleach, chemical straightening/perming, and harsh exfoliating/scalp acids. Minimise the use of heavy styling products (dry shampoo, strong sprays) that may irritate the scalp.

4. Set expectations

Results are gradual—consistency matters more than intensity.

Post-Treatment: Recovery and Aftercare

1. Normal reactions

Mild redness, tenderness, or sensitivity can occur (often 24–48 hours).

2. First 24–48 hours: Avoid washing your hair, heavy exercise, heat exposure (sauna/hot showers), and swimming.

3. Avoid

Scratching or massaging the scalp, and postponing hair dye/chemical treatments for a few days.

4. Maintain your plan

Follow your treatment schedule and recommended scalp care—LLLT, in particular, relies on consistent long-term use.

Start Your Hair Restoration Plan With Pure Clinic!

Hair loss treatments today can deliver visible, natural-looking improvement without surgery or major downtime. The right approach can reduce excessive shedding, support healthier regrowth, and restore the look of fuller density, so you can feel more confident while keeping up with your normal routine.

With personalised, doctor-led care at Pure Touch Clinic, treatment plans are tailored to your hair loss pattern, stage, and lifestyle, using evidence-based options designed to support long-term results in a discreet, comfortable way.

Why you should choose Pure Touch:

Over 17 years of KKM-licensed expertise
Specialists skilled in treating Malaysian demographics and Southeast Asian skin types
Procedures with FDA-approved products
LCP-certified for quality and safety
First in Malaysia to introduce cutting-edge technologies like the Curas Hybrid Laser

Ready to take the next step? Book a consultation today for a personalised treatment strategy tailored to your goals, lifestyle, and timeline.

Frequently Asked Question (FAQ)

How long will it take to see results, and when should I consider switching treatments?

Most hair treatments take time because hair grows slowly. Many people notice reduced shedding first, followed by gradual improvements in texture and density over the next few months.

A sensible review point is around month 6—if you’ve been consistent and see little to no improvement, it’s worth reassessing the diagnosis (pattern loss vs shedding vs scalp inflammation) and adjusting the plan rather than continuing unchanged.

Can stress alone cause permanent hair loss, or will my hair grow back once stress reduces?

Stress commonly triggers telogen effluvium, where more hairs shift into the shedding phase. In many cases, hair can recover once the trigger is addressed, but regrowth is gradual and may take several months.

If you also have underlying pattern hair loss, stress can make it look worse—so if shedding continues or density keeps declining, a professional assessment helps clarify what’s going on.

I’m a woman—will hair growth treatments make my hair grow in unwanted places?

Treatments that work locally on the scalp (such as LLLT, scalp therapy, and scalp injections) are targeted to the treated area and typically do not cause hair growth elsewhere.

Unwanted hair growth is more commonly associated with certain systemic medications or incorrect use of topical products. If you’re concerned, discuss your risk factors and treatment choices with your doctor.

Do I need to commit to lifelong treatments, or can I stop once my hair improves?

It depends on the cause. If shedding was triggered by a temporary issue (stress, illness, nutrient imbalance), you may not need long-term treatment once recovery is stable.

However, androgenetic alopecia (pattern hair loss) is progressive, so ongoing maintenance is often needed to hold results. Many people shift from an “active” phase to a lower-frequency maintenance plan once improvement is achieved.

How do I choose between different treatments if budget is a concern?

Start with the option most matched to your hair loss pattern and the one you can realistically maintain. A practical approach is to choose one core treatment for 3 months, then reassess before adding a second.

If you’re early-stage, non-invasive options (like LLLT or scalp-support therapies) may be a sensible starting point. If you have moderate pattern thinning, a targeted injectable option may be more efficient. The key is avoiding scattered spending across too many treatments without a plan.