Chronic stress. Hormonal imbalances. Lifestyle shifts. These are just some of the key factors driving a surge in early-onset hair loss among South African men.
According to Dr Kashmal Kalan, Medical Director at Alvi Armani, one of the country’s leading hair restoration clinics, a growing number of men under the age of 30 are experiencing visible hair loss – a trend that marks a significant departure when compared to previous generations.
“In the past, hair loss typically became noticeable after the age of 35. Now, we are seeing younger patients – some still in their twenties – dealing with thinning hair. This is often linked to chronic stress, as well as changes in diet and hormone levels, including increased exposure to oestrogen-like compounds in food,” he says.
Alvi Armani has reported a steady rise in male patients seeking professional intervention over the past two years. Dr Kalan estimates that 30-40% of men show signs of hair loss before reaching their mid-thirties, with that percentage rising to over 67% thereafter.
But this is more than just a cosmetic concern. For many young men, hair loss has a serious emotional impact, severely affecting their confidence, self-esteem, and mental wellbeing.
“Hair restoration is about more than appearance – it’s about identity and confidence. That’s why we approach every case holistically,” he adds. “We often work with psychologists and psychiatrists to ensure that patients get the right kind of support, both medically and emotionally.”
Debunking the myths: It’s not your cap
Despite growing awareness, myths around male hair loss persist. One common belief is that wearing caps causes balding – a claim Dr Kalan quickly dismisses.
“It’s a misconception. Most people wear caps to hide hair loss, but they aren’t a leading cause of it. Unless a cap is extremely tight and worn for 8 to 10 hours per day, it’s unlikely to have any real effect.”
Ironically, opting for shorter haircuts might, in fact, help with the early detection and management of hair loss.
“Longer hair can conceal thinning, but shorter haircuts may reveal the reality of the situation. Early detection is key to effective treatment.”
Get help – from the right people
Dr Kalan urges men to seek expert guidance rather than fall for quick fixes and marketing gimmicks they might come across on social media.
“If your hair loss is affecting you, you deserve proper care. Unfortunately, the market is flooded with miracle cures that don’t deliver. We often see patients who have spent thousands of rands with no results, only to arrive at our clinic feeling disillusioned.”
Instead, he urges young people to consult with trained professionals such as dermatologists, general practitioners with a focus on hair health, or hair restoration specialists.
“Male-pattern baldness, or androgenic alopecia, is a medical condition like diabetes or hypertension. It needs consistent, personalised care and treatment. And the earlier you start, the better the outcome.
“It’s also important to note that transplants are just one solution. Often, we start patients on Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy or medications to strengthen and maintain existing hair. It’s our responsibility to guide patients based on science and years of experience.”
A Youth Month reminder
As Youth Month shines a spotlight on the mental and physical wellbeing of young South Africans, Dr Kalan’s message is both timely and important: “Hair loss isn’t a vanity issue – it’s something that can deeply affect one’s quality of life. Supporting young people through it means acknowledging the emotional toll of the problem, and offering ethical, medically sound solutions.”
At Alvi Armani, the focus remains on scientific credibility, compassionate care, and long-term results, because for many, getting their hair restored is just the beginning of reclaiming their confidence. Meanwhile, for young South Africans, the path forward lies in seeking qualified medical guidance, understanding that early intervention can play a major role in long-term success and well-being.
