Hair loss & heredity — the genetic links

See the genetic variants research has linked to male-pattern hair loss.

Pattern hair loss is among the best-mapped heritable traits there are. The largest studies have found hundreds of independent associations — the single strongest sits on the X chromosome near the androgen receptor gene AR, which explains the classic 'maternal grandfather' inheritance pattern.

What the analysis shows

Pattern hair loss is one of the most heritable visible traits — hundreds of genetic variants have been linked to it, many in and around the androgen receptor gene AR. DNAHelper shows which of these variants your raw file carries. It is a statistical association, not a prognosis — age, hormones and chance matter too. The analysis runs entirely locally.

Why the AR region dominates the signal

The AR region on the X chromosome carries the strongest signal, but most variants sit on the autosomes and come from both parents. Variants near genes for hair-follicle development and hormone signalling recur study after study.

How robust are the links?

The associations are statistically robust and replicated in large cohorts. But 'carries the variant' does not mean 'will lose hair' — many carriers keep theirs, and many without top markers lose hair anyway.

Age and hormones write the rest of the story

Age is the single largest factor. After that: hormone levels, illness, certain medications and stress. Genes tilt the odds — they do not write the ending.

What the result means — and does not mean

The analysis builds on the trait balding measurement (strong evidence strength). The associations are strong but probabilistic — they describe a lean, not a fate. Many carriers are never affected.

Associations are statistical — they describe populations, not destinies. Read how we grade evidence in our method.

Privacy: your file never leaves the browser

You choose your raw file locally — it is parsed and analysed entirely in your browser and is not uploaded for the standard analysis. The only exception is the optional DNA Chat feature where you, after explicit consent, can share selected variants. Read the privacy policy · What happens to your DNA file?

Compatible raw files

Works with raw data exports from MyHeritage, 23andMe, AncestryDNA, FamilyTreeDNA (.txt, .csv, .zip). The download guides show exactly where to find your file with each provider — and the file formats are explained here.

See your hair-loss genetics