On average, when does hairloss seem to accelerate the fastest?

[JSmyth]

I am currently 26 and have mild frontal thinning with slightly receded corners. I have been on finasteride for 4 years (currently taking 0.5mg every other day).

I am curious when, on average, an individuals pattern of hair loss becomes evident. I want to get a HT at some point but I am not jumping into anything without having a good idea of where my hair loss is headed.

[hanginginthewire]

I want to get a HT at some point but I am not jumping into anything without having a good idea of where my hair loss is headed.

I'm feeling the same, but I am confused because people keep saying that hair loss is "progressive". So, aren't we all headed to NW7? Just a matter of time?

[JSmyth]

I'm feeling the same, but I am confused because people keep saying that hair loss is "progressive". So, aren't we all headed to NW7? Just a matter of time?

I don't think that is the case. If we lived long enough then yes, all men predisposed to baldness would probably reach a high NW. But, not everyone has rapid hairloss so across the life course they may only reach a lower NW. It is hard to gauge when it is safe to have work done though.

[JSmyth]

In most people it is in the 20s and 30s.

In your experience, when do you usually "know" an individuals pattern well enough to feel comfortable moving along with surgery?