Treatment guide · Hair & Scalp
Male Pattern Baldness in Seoul
Slowing a receding hairline and thinning crown with medicine and in-clinic support.
Ask the clinic for: 남성형 탈모 (M자 탈모·정수리 탈모)
Quick answer
Male pattern baldness (androgenetic alopecia) is gradual hair loss at the temples and crown caused by genes and the hormone DHT. In Seoul, treatment combines prescription medicine with in-clinic options like PRP, exosomes or scalp boosters, which typically cost about ₩100,000–₩600,000 per session. Sessions take 30–60 minutes with little downtime. Results show after 3–6 months and need ongoing treatment.
Estimated cost in Seoul
₩100,000–₩600,000 per session
Treatment time
30–60 minutes
Downtime
None to 1 day
Results show
3–6 months
Results last
Ongoing while treated
Sessions
4–10 sessions, plus daily medicine
Male Pattern Baldness explained
Male pattern baldness is the most common type of hair loss in men. It usually starts with an M-shaped receding hairline or thinning at the crown, and slowly progresses. In Korea it is often called M자 탈모 (M-shape) or 정수리 탈모 (crown).
How Male Pattern Baldness works
DHT, a hormone made from testosterone, slowly shrinks hair follicles in genetically sensitive areas. Finasteride and dutasteride reduce DHT, and minoxidil supports hair growth; these are prescription medicines (except some topical minoxidil) that need an in-person doctor's consultation and prescription in Korea. In-clinic treatments such as PRP, exosomes and boosters support follicle health, and hair transplant is an option for areas that are already bald.
Who Male Pattern Baldness is for
- Early receding temples or thinning crown
- Men who want to keep the hair they still have
- Adding in-clinic treatment to medicine
- Men with a family history of baldness who want to act early
- Those planning a hair transplant who want to protect native hair
Who should avoid Male Pattern Baldness
- Completely bald areas where follicles are gone (consider a transplant consult)
- Patchy, round bald spots, which may be alopecia areata
- Men trying to conceive, who should discuss medicine timing with the doctor
- Active scalp infection
- Expecting permanent results after stopping treatment
What happens at the appointment
- Doctor consultation and scalp camera exam
- Discussion of medicine options, benefits and side effects
- Prescription if suitable, with a follow-up plan
- In-clinic session such as PRP, exosomes, boosters or laser
- Photo review every 3–6 months
Aftercare and flying home
- Take medicine only as prescribed and do not share it
- Avoid washing hair for 6–24 hours after scalp injections, as advised
- Skip saunas, swimming and hard workouts for 24 hours after injections
- Use a gentle shampoo and keep the scalp clean
- Take monthly photos in the same light
Side effects and risks
- Scalp tenderness, redness or small bruises after injections
- Temporary shedding when starting minoxidil
- Possible sexual side effects, mood changes or breast tenderness with finasteride or dutasteride, which the doctor will discuss
- Dizziness, swelling or extra body hair with oral minoxidil
- Rare infection at injection sites
How much does Male Pattern Baldness cost in Seoul?
₩100,000–₩600,000 per session (about US$75–440 per session) — Costs depend on the medicine, the in-clinic treatment, the product brand and package size. Medicine is usually low-cost per month in Korea, while PRP and exosome packages are the larger expense. Prices are estimates and change with promotions.
Why get Male Pattern Baldness in Korea?
Hair loss treatment is a large specialty in Seoul, with many dermatology clinics offering scalp diagnosis, medicine and in-clinic treatments in one visit. Prices for PRP, exosomes and boosters are often lower than in Western countries.
Prices are estimates gathered for Seoul clinics and change with brand, dose and promotions — confirm a quote with the clinic before booking. This page is general information, not medical advice; a doctor will assess whether a treatment suits you at consultation.
Frequently asked questions
How much does male pattern baldness treatment cost in Seoul?
In-clinic sessions usually cost about ₩100,000–₩600,000 each. Medicine and consultations are a separate, usually smaller, monthly cost.
Do hair loss injections hurt?
They sting, especially at the hairline. Numbing cream, cooling or vibration help, and each session is short.
How long do male pattern baldness treatments last?
Results last only while you keep treating. If you stop medicine, hair loss usually returns over the following months.
Can I fly after scalp treatments?
Yes, you can usually fly the same day or next day. Mild tenderness does not affect flying.
Is finasteride safe?
It is widely used and many men tolerate it well, but some have sexual or mood side effects. It needs an in-person prescription in Korea, and the doctor will explain the risks for you.
Can male pattern baldness be reversed?
Early thinning can often be partly reversed with treatment. Areas that have been bald for a long time usually do not regrow without a transplant.
Where to get it in Seoul
Foreigner-friendly clinics cluster around Gangnam, Sinsa–Apgujeong–Cheongdam and Myeongdong. Tap a number to zoom in, then tap a pin to ask the clinic on WhatsApp whether they offer this treatment and for a quote.
Pins show each clinic's neighbourhood or nearest station, not the exact door. Not every clinic offers every treatment — ask before you go.
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