Risks and limits of Haarausfall Test

The MyBody-X hair loss test is a direct-to-consumer genetic test analyzing SNPs linked to androgenetic alopecia. The scientific basis is mostly GWAS with small effect sizes (often <5% of variance). The test can only indicate a genetic predisposition, not predict actual hair loss or diagnose its cause (e.g., hormonal, nutritional, drug-induced). Clinical validation studies for such tests are largely absent; they are screening tools, not medical diagnostics. Risks include false reassurance or unnecessary anxiety: a 'low risk' result may overlook organic causes, while 'high risk' may prompt unneeded or costly treatments. Moreover, only a few SNPs are tested, whereas hair loss is polygenic and multifactorial. Results should always be discussed with a doctor (dermatologist) before any action. Evidence: marketing/unclear. Caveat: Not a clinical diagnosis.