What Percentage of Men Go Bald? (By 20s, 30s, 40s, and Beyond)

Let's be real: few things trigger more anxiety and self-consciousness in men than the first sign of a receding hairline or a thinning crown. It's a natural part of aging, but it can also be a blow to your self-esteem and confidence. 

It's important to remember that balding is incredibly common, so you're not alone in this journey. But when does it usually start?

Many have asked: "What percentage of men go bald?" 

Read along as we break down the male pattern baldness statistics decade by decade, explain why hair loss happens, and share practical tips on whether to fight back or embrace the bald.

What Percentage of Men Go Bald Overall?

Let's start with the big picture: by age 50, about 50% of men will have noticeable hair loss (according to the American Hair Loss Association). 

This number climbs higher as men age.  A population-based case-control study on male pattern baldness and prostate cancer risk shows that by age 60, up to 66% of men are affected, and by age 70, nearly 8 out of 10 men are dealing with significant hair thinning or baldness.

The main culprit? Male pattern baldness (androgenetic alopecia). Again, we refer to the American Hair Loss Association, as it shows that MPB accounts for more than 95% of hair loss in men. 

It's mainly due to genetics and hormones, but lifestyle, health, and stress can play a role as well. Understanding these factors can empower you to make informed decisions about your hair health.

Whether you're in your early 20s or late 60s, knowing the stats can help you understand what's normal and what's not.

For more on the genetic side, read our article that answers the question, Will I go bald if my dad is bald?

Baldness by Age: How Many Men Go Bald in Each Decade

Let's break it down by age group so you can know what to expect in every stage:

What Percentage of Men Go Bald in Their 20s?

According to a study on Dermatologic Surgery (1998), roughly 16–20% of men aged 18–29 experience moderate to extensive hair loss. That means about 1 in 5 guys will notice some thinning, a receding hairline, or even a bald patch before they hit 30.

If you're in this age group, the percentages are not that high, but if you have a strong family history of baldness, MPB can hit you this early.

Early-onset baldness is often hereditary, so if your dad, uncles, or grandfathers started losing hair young, you might too. The good news? Catching it early gives you more options for slowing it down or managing it.

Read our article on teenage hair loss or our guide to hair loss in your 20s to learn more.

What Percentage of Men Go Bald in Their 30s?

According to the American Hair Loss Association, about two-thirds of American men will experience noticeable hair loss by age 35. 

If you're in your 30s and starting to notice changes, you're in good company. This is the decade when most men first become aware of their hair loss. It's also a great time to consider your options, whether medical treatments, new hairstyles, or even prepping for a bold new look.

I remember losing my hair at this age. I was in the early stages of the Norwood scale, and my response was to try every hair growth solution I could find. Not knowing that male pattern baldness was undefeated and permanent. It was a harsh realization, but it also led me to accept and embrace my baldness.

What Percentage of Men Go Bald in Their 40s?

At this point, baldness is common- almost half of men deal with moderate to significant hair loss. Around 40 to 53% of men are affected by male pattern hair loss by age 40 to 49.

If you're in your 40s, hair loss is more the rule than the exception. Whether you've been managing it for years or just starting to accelerate, it's never too late to take action or embrace your look and own it confidently.

What Percentage of Men Go Bald in Their 50s and Beyond?

By age 50, about 50–66% of men have noticeable hair loss; by age 60+, up to 85% have significant thinning.

At this stage, you won't be surprised to see your buddies sporting the same hair (or lack of it) as you do. 

Why Do Men Go Bald?

So, what's behind all these numbers? Here are the main culprits:

• Genetics: Your risk is higher if male pattern baldness runs in your family.

• DHT Sensitivity: Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) is a hormone that can shrink hair follicles in genetically susceptible men.

• Hormonal Changes: Testosterone and its byproducts play a significant role in hair growth cycles.

• Lifestyle Factors: Stress, poor diet, smoking, and certain medical conditions can accelerate hair loss.

• Age: Hair follicles naturally shrink as you age, leading to thinner hair.

Understanding these causes can help you make informed decisions about prevention, treatment, or acceptance.

What You Can Do About It

No matter your age or stage, you have a range of options. This should give you hope and confidence in managing your hair loss.

• Medical Treatments: FDA-approved medications like Minoxidil (Rogaine) and Finasteride (Propecia) can slow hair loss or even regrow some hair, especially if started early. Some even use both medications for more effective results. You need to be patient, though; it may take 3 to 6 months before you see results, and you also need to take these for life because you'll lose any progress you've made when you stop.

• Lifestyle Choices: Eating a balanced diet, managing stress, and avoiding harsh hair treatments can help maintain what you have.

• Shaving and Scalp Care: Many men choose to embrace the bald look. Freebird's scalp care products can help you keep your head smooth, healthy, and irritation-free because confidence is always in style.

• Hair Transplants: For some, surgical options provide a permanent, natural-looking solution.

If you've embraced the bald look like me, the FlexSeries Pro from Freebird is an excellent first investment. You can try it risk-free for 30 days. Get one now for only $59.95. 

The Bottom Line

Balding is inevitable if you have the baldness gene; it doesn't matter what age you are (from 20s and above), it can hit you anytime. 

So, when do men start going bald? By age 50, about half of all men will experience noticeable hair loss. By 60, it's most men. Whether you're just starting to notice changes in your 20s or fully embracing the bald in your 40s and beyond, remember: hair loss is normal, common, and nothing to be ashamed of.

The best approach? Stay informed, explore your options, and choose what makes you feel most confident- whether that's fighting for every strand or rocking a clean, polished dome. Either way, you're in good company.

FAQs

Can Male Pattern Baldness Be Prevented or Reversed?

No. There is still no cure for male pattern baldness, and hair loss is permanent. Most treatments slow down hair loss, but early intervention is the key.

Does Baldness Skip Generations?

Genetics are complex; baldness may skip generations if you're one of the lucky ones.

When Should I See a Doctor About Hair Loss?

See a healthcare provider immediately if you notice sudden, patchy hair loss and experience other symptoms.

What are the side effects of hair loss treatments?

Minoxidil and Finasteride have side effects. Some get irritated and have headaches when using Minoxidil. Finasteride? Loss of libido, depression, and breast tenderness.