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.
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.
Stage 3 has milder temples; stage 5 shrinks the bridge further.
|
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. |
Competitors list stages but skimp on urgency. Prioritize:
Expect 6-12 months for results; 50-70% density recovery possible.
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.