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What Is Baldness Level 4?

Written by Bodycraft | Dec 23, 2025 10:23:11 AM

Your temples have pulled back noticeably, and now the top feels thinner too? It's the fourth stage on the Norwood Scale where hair loss advances: deeper frontal recession meets a growing bald spot on the crown, separated by a thinning "bridge" of hair – now undeniably balding territory.

Norwood Stage 4 Characteristics

Dr. James Norwood's classification marks stage 4 as a significant progression. The hairline forms a pronounced U-shape, receding 3+ cm at temples. A distinct vertex (crown) bald area emerges (2-4 inches wide), with a band of denser hair still connecting front to top.

This hits men in their 30s typically. Scalp shows clearly in normal light; styling hides less effectively.

Defining Features of Baldness Level 4

  • Frontal recession: Severe temple loss; U or horseshoe outline from above.
  • Crown balding: Sparse or no hair on vertex; shiny scalp visible.
  • Bridge status: Moderate density strip remains between areas.
  • Onset: Mid-30s; faster if untreated stage 3.

Stage 3 has milder temples; stage 5 shrinks the bridge further.

Baldness Level 4 Comparison Table

 

Level

Frontal Loss

Crown Loss

Bridge Hair

Next Risk

4

Deep U-shape

Moderate bald spot

Thick strip

Stage 5 merge.

3

M/V temples

Minimal

Full

Progression likely.

5

Severe U

Large spot

Thin band

Horseshoe forming.

6+

Connected baldness

Extensive

Gone

Transplant time.

Treatment Options at Baldness Level 4

Competitors list stages but skimp on urgency. Prioritize:

  • Core meds: Finasteride 1mg + minoxidil 5% twice daily (80% stabilization rate).
  • Advanced: Dutasteride, PRP injections every 4-6 weeks, microneedling.
  • Surgical: FUE transplants ideal – strong donor sides available.
  • Support: Ketoconazole shampoo, laser cap 3x/week, nutrition (biotin, zinc).

Expect 6-12 months for results; 50-70% density recovery possible.

Conclusion

Baldness level 4 demands action – meds stabilize, transplants restore. Don't delay: consult a specialist now to protect that bridge and avoid stage 5. Early moves here save years of hair.