1) Male pattern baldness, also known as androgenetic alopecia, is caused by a combination of genetic and hormonal factors. Genes inherited from both parents play a role in baldness susceptibility. 2) The male hormone dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which is produced from the conversion of testosterone by the enzyme 5-alpha reductase, attaches to receptors on hair follicles and causes them to miniaturize over time. 3) Baldness is a progressive condition that develops over many years as the genetically inherited tendency interacts with aging and DHT levels in the scalp. There is no permanent cure except for surgical hair transplants.