19 y/o - should i be concerned about possible hair thinning in the temples? (photos)

Question

My right side of head been always different than my left side and I watched it over the years and i want to ask if im possibly balding im a 19 year old male my father is bald but my uncles on voth sides isn’t and neither is my grandparents

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

I understand why you’re paying close attention to this, especially when you already notice asymmetry between the two sides. That alone can make you more alert to any small changes over time.

At 19, early hairline changes can happen, but what you’re describing doesn’t automatically mean you are balding. A few important things to keep in mind:

It’s actually very common for one temple to be slightly more recessed or different than the other—that natural asymmetry can be present since adolescence. When you start looking at it closely over the years, it can feel like it’s “progressing,” even when it’s relatively stable.

Now, regarding genetics—having a father who is bald does increase your risk of androgenetic alopecia, but it’s not the only factor. The fact that your uncles and grandparents are not bald suggests a mixed genetic pattern, which often means if thinning does occur, it can be slower, milder, or more variable in presentation.

What I would look for clinically are early signs such as:

Gradual recession that is clearly progressing over time
Miniaturization of hairs (hairs becoming finer and shorter in the temple area)
Increased shedding beyond normal daily loss
A more defined “M” shape developing in the hairline

If what you’re seeing is mostly stable asymmetry without clear progression, it may simply be your natural hairline shape rather than true balding.

At your age, I’m generally cautious about labeling anything as definitive hair loss too early. The most helpful step is usually monitoring over time with consistent photos in the same lighting and angles, rather than reacting to small day-to-day differences.

If early androgenetic changes are suspected, there are also very effective medical options to slow or stabilize it—but I would only consider that once there is clear evidence of progression.

Right now, based on your description, this is something I would watch closely rather than assume is active balding.

Matt Tahsini, MD · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question. I understand your concern but you are very young and I don't think you should worry too much yet. In the future if you're still concerned I would start by seeing your family physician for blood work up and then possibly a dermatologist. Best of luck to you.

Dr. T

Dr. T

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