Prince George starting at Eton College has ignited conversations about royal hair and male pattern baldness, as the young prince follows in his father's footsteps. The milestone, coinciding with the 25th anniversary of 9/11, has sparked nostalgia and speculation about the future king's appearance.
Prince George's Eton Debut and Royal Hair Legacy
When Prince George arrived at Eton College, comparisons to his father, Prince William, were inevitable. Both started at the prestigious school at age 13, but George appears more confident. However, the spotlight quickly shifted to his hair—a topic that has plagued royal men for generations.
The Windsor family has a well-documented history of male pattern baldness. Prince William began losing his hair in his early 20s, while Prince Harry has also experienced thinning. Prince Charles and Prince Philip both sported the classic royal horseshoe pattern. Now, royal watchers wonder if George will inherit the trait.
The Genetics of Royal Baldness
Male pattern baldness is largely hereditary, influenced by genes from both parents. The primary baldness gene is found on the X chromosome, which men inherit from their mothers. Kate Middleton's father, Michael Middleton, has a full head of hair, which could bode well for George. However, the strong history on the Windsor side cannot be ignored.
Experts suggest that while George may carry the gene, lifestyle and environmental factors also play a role. Early signs of hair loss typically appear in the late teens or early 20s, so the world will be watching closely.

Comparing Royal Hair: A Generational Overview
To understand the potential future of Prince George's hair, let's examine the hairlines of key royal men at similar ages.
| Royal | Age at Eton Start | Hair Status at 13 | Hair Status by 30 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Prince Philip | Not applicable | Full head | Significant thinning |
| Prince Charles | 14 (Gordonstoun) | Full head | Thinning crown |
| Prince William | 13 | Full head | Advanced baldness |
| Prince Harry | 13 | Full head | Moderate thinning |
| Prince George | 13 | Full head | TBD |
Key Takeaways for Royal Watchers
- Genetics are unpredictable: While the Windsor men often bald early, the Middleton genes may offer protection.
- Lifestyle matters: Stress, diet, and hair care can influence hair loss.
- Modern treatments exist: If George does experience thinning, options like minoxidil and finasteride are available.
- Public interest remains high: Royal hair has been a topic of fascination for decades.
What the Future Holds for Prince George's Hair
Only time will tell if Prince George will keep his thick locks or follow the family tradition of baldness. For now, he enjoys a full head of hair, and royal fans are hopeful that the Middleton genes will prevail. Regardless, his journey at Eton will be closely watched, both for his academic achievements and his hairstyle.
FAQ
Does Prince George have the baldness gene?
It's too early to tell. He may have inherited the baldness gene from the Windsor side, but the Middleton family's full hair could reduce the risk.
At what age did Prince William start losing his hair?
Prince William began showing signs of hair loss in his early 20s, with noticeable thinning by age 25.

Can male pattern baldness be prevented?
While there is no sure way to prevent it, treatments like minoxidil and finasteride can slow or stop hair loss in many men.
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