Q: Is hair loss passed down from parents? A: Yes, genetics play a huge role in hair thinning. This is called pattern baldness. If your father, mother, or grandparents have thin hair or a receding hairline, you may have inherited hair roots that are sensitive to certain body hormones. Over time, these hormones make the hair roots smaller and weaker until they stop growing hair. Clinical treatments can block these hormones and protect your hair.