How can i reverse a receding hairline?

Im 23 male, ive always had long hair but in the last 6months ive noticed a receding hairline where my fringe is, its not too bad YET but when i tie my hair back sometimes you can see the balding patches which sux because i was considering dreadlocks until i noticed this :/ is there any way to combat this or should i just shave my head and get used to it?