What zones this covers
This protocol focuses on: temples, hairline. Track zones separately so you do not average away the signal.
Why this matters
- Temple photos can look dramatically different with small angle shifts, so consistency is everything.
- Tracking temples separately prevents crown/hairline noise from hiding the signal you care about.
What to photograph
- Left temple at a consistent head turn angle.
- Right temple at a mirrored consistent head turn angle.
- Front hairline for context (same distance).
What to log
- Camera lens used (keep the same lens).
- Angle consistency note (did you match last week?).
- Any styling products that change shine or clumping.
How to interpret what you see
- If one side looks worse, check symmetry: head turn angle and camera distance usually explain it.
- Compare 4-8 week windows and look for persistent directional change.
Decision points (when to wait vs act)
- If only one temple appears worse, verify setup symmetry first.
- Compare 4-8 week windows and look for persistent directional change.
- If worsening persists, consider an MPB-focused evaluation.
When to get evaluated
- Sudden shedding or rapid change that is not explained by setup or haircut.
- Patchy loss or scalp symptoms (pain, redness, scale).
Common mistakes that fake progress
- Turning your head more on one side (creates fake asymmetry).
- Changing distance and cropping differently each time.
- Using harsh side-lighting sometimes and not others.
FAQ
Why do my temples look uneven in photos?
Small angle differences create big perceived changes. Standardize head turn and camera distance before interpreting asymmetry.
What is the simplest temple tracking setup?
Pick one room/light, use the same lens, mark your standing distance, and capture left/right temple at the same head-turn angle each time.
