Late to the party, but here’s my two cents: balding is normal, keep the sides really short and don’t overuse any kind of styling product on top while you still have your hair. When you can see your scalp through your hair, however, it’s time to let it go.
A really cheap band aid if you are opposed to weird chemicals is to use hair fibers. Look up Toppik, you can pick up a sample for less than $10 in most stores and it will last you long enough to figure out if it works for you. Sure, it washes out and you have to reapply it every morning, but it only takes a minute, and definitely enhances what you have left.
Fortunately, the bald/stubble look suits me, but it definitely doesn’t suit everyone. I highly recommend getting in good shape, growing a beard, and dressing well. Women care way more about that than about a bald head. We’re men, we go bald, sh*t happens. Control what you can control and f*ck the rest of it.