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Medical Disclaimer

Last Updated: October 24, 2025

1. Purpose of This Tool

Norwood Scale AI is an educational and informational tool designed to help users understand the Norwood Scale classification system for male pattern baldness.

What This Tool IS:

  • An AI-powered visual screening tool based on OpenAI technology
  • An educational resource about hair loss patterns
  • A preliminary self-assessment aid
  • A starting point for conversations with healthcare providers

What This Tool IS NOT:

  • A medical device (not FDA-approved or CE-certified)
  • A diagnostic tool for medical conditions
  • A substitute for professional medical examination
  • A source of medical advice or treatment recommendations

2. Not a Substitute for Professional Medical Advice

You should consult a licensed healthcare professional for:

  • Accurate Diagnosis: Only a trained medical professional can properly diagnose the cause of your hair loss
  • Treatment Planning: Personalized treatment recommendations based on your medical history, health conditions, and goals
  • Medication Prescriptions: Many effective hair loss treatments require prescriptions (e.g., finasteride)
  • Surgical Evaluation: Hair transplant candidacy and planning require in-person assessment
  • Underlying Conditions: Hair loss may be a symptom of other medical issues (thyroid disorders, nutritional deficiencies, etc.)

Recommended Specialists:

  • Board-Certified Dermatologist: Medical doctors specializing in skin and hair conditions
  • Hair Restoration Surgeon: Specialists in surgical hair transplant procedures (look for ISHRS members)
  • Endocrinologist: If hair loss is related to hormonal imbalances
  • Trichologist: Hair and scalp specialists (certification varies by country)

3. AI Technology Limitations

3.1 Algorithm Limitations

Our AI system has inherent limitations:

  • Visual Pattern Recognition Only: The AI analyzes visual patterns in photos, not underlying medical causes
  • Not Medically Trained: The AI model is not trained as a medical professional and cannot diagnose diseases
  • Borderline Cases: May struggle to differentiate between adjacent stages (e.g., Stage 2 vs. 3)
  • No Context: Cannot consider your medical history, genetics, medications, or other relevant factors

3.2 Photo Quality Dependency

Results are highly dependent on photo quality:

  • Lighting: Poor lighting can obscure hair density and hairline details
  • Angle: Incorrect angles may misrepresent the actual hair loss pattern
  • Hair Styling: Wet hair, hair products, or certain hairstyles can affect analysis
  • Image Quality: Blurry, low-resolution, or cropped photos reduce accuracy

Variability: The same person may receive different results from different photos.

3.3 Individual Variation

The Norwood Scale and our AI tool have specific limitations:

  • Designed for Male Pattern Baldness: The Norwood Scale primarily applies to androgenetic alopecia in men
  • Not for Women: Female pattern hair loss is better classified using the Ludwig Scale or other systems
  • Not for Other Hair Loss Types: Does not apply to alopecia areata, telogen effluvium, scarring alopecia, or other conditions
  • Ethnic Variations: Hairline patterns vary across ethnicities; the Norwood Scale may not capture all variations

3.4 OpenAI Model Dependency

We rely on OpenAI's technology:

  • We do not control OpenAI's AI models, training data, or algorithms
  • OpenAI may update models, which could affect result consistency
  • OpenAI's models are general-purpose AI, not specifically designed for medical diagnosis
  • See OpenAI's Privacy Policy for their data handling practices

4. No Doctor-Patient Relationship

Using this tool does NOT establish a doctor-patient relationship.

  • We do not provide personalized medical advice or treatment recommendations
  • AI results are general educational information, not tailored medical guidance
  • We are a technology service, not a healthcare provider
  • Our support team (support@norwood-scale.com) handles technical issues only, not medical questions

5. Health Conditions That May Affect Results

Certain medical conditions can cause or contribute to hair loss, which may affect AI accuracy:

Medical Conditions
  • Thyroid disorders (hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism)
  • Autoimmune diseases (alopecia areata, lupus)
  • Nutritional deficiencies (iron, zinc, vitamin D, protein)
  • Hormonal imbalances (testosterone, estrogen, cortisol)
  • Scalp infections or inflammation
  • Diabetes
  • Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
  • Chronic stress or illness
Medications That May Cause Hair Loss
  • Chemotherapy drugs
  • Blood thinners (anticoagulants)
  • Antidepressants (some SSRIs)
  • Blood pressure medications (beta-blockers, ACE inhibitors)
  • Gout medications
  • Cholesterol-lowering drugs (statins)
  • Acne medications (isotretinoin)
  • Anabolic steroids (long-term use)

If you have any of these conditions:

  • AI results may not accurately reflect male pattern baldness
  • Your hair loss may have a different, treatable cause
  • You MUST consult a doctor to identify and address the underlying issue

6. Seek Immediate Medical Care If...

  • 🚨Sudden, rapid hair loss (large amounts within days or weeks)
  • 🚨Patchy bald spots (may indicate alopecia areata or infection)
  • 🚨Scalp pain, burning, or severe itching
  • 🚨Scalp redness, swelling, or pus/discharge (signs of infection)
  • 🚨Scaling, crusting, or sores on the scalp
  • 🚨Hair loss accompanied by fever, fatigue, or weight changes
  • 🚨Hair loss following a new medication or medical treatment

These symptoms may indicate conditions requiring urgent treatment (infections, autoimmune disorders, medication reactions, etc.). Do not delay medical care.

7. Treatment Information (Educational Only)

Common Hair Loss Treatments (Informational):

Minoxidil (Rogaine):
  • Over-the-counter topical treatment
  • Possible side effects: scalp irritation, unwanted facial hair
  • Requires continuous use; hair loss returns if stopped
  • Consult a pharmacist or doctor before use
Finasteride (Propecia):
  • Prescription oral medication
  • Possible side effects: sexual dysfunction, depression (rare but serious)
  • Not for use by women, especially if pregnant or planning pregnancy
  • Requires doctor prescription and monitoring
Hair Transplant Surgery:
  • Surgical procedure (FUE, FUT, etc.)
  • Requires careful candidacy evaluation by a specialist
  • Results depend on donor hair availability and surgeon skill
  • Consult ISHRS-certified surgeons
Other Options:
  • PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) therapy
  • Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT)
  • Lifestyle modifications (diet, stress management)
  • Evidence and effectiveness vary — discuss with your doctor

8. Liability Waiver

YOU USE THIS TOOL AT YOUR OWN RISK.

We are NOT RESPONSIBLE for:

  • Any medical decisions, treatments, or actions you take based on AI results
  • Inaccurate, incomplete, or misleading AI analysis
  • Health consequences from relying on this tool instead of professional medical care
  • Side effects or complications from treatments you pursue
  • Psychological distress or emotional impact from results
  • Financial losses from treatment decisions

Your Acknowledgment: By using this tool, you acknowledge that:

  • You have read and understood this Medical Disclaimer
  • You understand this tool is for educational purposes only
  • You will consult a licensed healthcare provider for medical advice
  • You will not rely solely on AI results for medical decisions
  • You assume all risks associated with using this tool

9. How to Find Qualified Healthcare Professionals

We recommend consulting board-certified specialists:

Dermatologists

Medical doctors specializing in skin and hair conditions.

American Academy of Dermatology
Hair Restoration Surgeons

Specialists in hair transplant surgery and restoration.

International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery (ISHRS)

Verification Steps:

  • Verify board certification and medical licenses
  • Read patient reviews and before/after photos
  • Consult multiple specialists before major decisions (second opinions)
  • Ask about experience with your specific condition
  • Beware of unrealistic promises or high-pressure sales tactics
Find a Dermatologist

10. Contact Information

For Technical Issues:
support@norwood-scale.com
For Medical Questions:
Please consult your doctor or a licensed dermatologist
Response Time (Technical Only):
Typically 24-48 hours

This medical disclaimer is effective as of October 24, 2025. By using NorMark, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to this disclaimer. This tool is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical care.

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