Mature Hairline vs. Receding Hairline: How They Differ

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Hairlines get a lot of attention in the hair restoration community for a few reasons.

Above all, an individual’s hairline is one of the first things we notice when meeting a new person, and it’s accepted that a strong hairline indicates youth, health, and other positive attributes that help us in all areas of life.

From a medical standpoint, a person’s hairline tells us a lot about the state of their hair in general, including where they are on the spectrum of hair loss, whether it’s time to apply preventive measures, or if more advanced therapeutics or procedures are required.

If you find yourself in that gray zone between a mature and receding hairline and want to know the truth of your situation, this is the article for you. Let’s get started.

What Is a Mature Hairline?

Since most of us can identify a receding hairline with a cursory glance, it will be more beneficial to learn the characteristics of a mature hairline before making any comparisons.

Once we understand what a mature hairline is and what it looks like, we can then explore the factors and features of a receding hairline in more detail.

Mature Hairline vs. Youthful Hairline

The best way to describe a mature hairline is to compare it to the “youthful hairline” that most individuals experience in childhood before the onset of puberty.

The youthful hairline rests relatively low on the forehead, typically with a symmetrical concave shape that nears the outer corners of the eyebrows. Hair on the temples is dense with most youthful hairlines, with no widow’s peaks or temple peaks to be found, regardless of gender or racial background.

A mature hairline changes from a youthful hairline in a few ways.

The most noticeable sign is the overall advancement (an inch or more) of the hairline to a higher point on the forehead, even if the concave shape of the youthful hairline is retained.

In many cases, a mature hairline does change shape, revealing a slight widow’s peak and possible temple peaks. Other types of mature hairline feature more convex shapes, although not characterized by the exaggerated M-shape we see in advanced Norwood scale stages.

Is a Mature Hairline Normal?

Now that we know what a mature hairline looks like, let’s dispel the myth that this type of hairline is abnormal or indicative of further receding.

Firstly, a mature hairline is the norm for more than 95% of men and women in the world, particularly in Caucasian individuals. The lucky 5% who maintain their youthful hairlines for a lifetime simply had the luck of the genetic draw.

Furthermore, a mature hairline is a sign that all systems of maturation and hormonal balances are healthy and operational within a man’s body. This explains why most mature hairlines start to appear in the late teenage years or the early 20s.

From the perspective of a physician, a mature hairline is to be expected, and nothing to fear at this particular stage.

Does a Mature Hairline Look Natural?

On a more subjective level, many patients have concerns about the look of their mature hairlines, especially when they first start to see their youthful hairline fade away.

While it might be slightly disconcerting at first to see changes to one’s hairline, a mature hairline tends to complement a man’s appearance as they notice masculinization of the face, including features like square jaw and more pronounced brow.

A mature hairline can also be styled in a range of modern configurations that present a smart and distinguished appearance. Men can even grow their hair long with a mature hairline and still look great – just watch how Hollywood’s biggest stars have styled their hair through the years.

Mature Hairline vs. Receding Hairline

There’s nothing to worry about with a solid and stable mature hairline, but starting to see the transformation to a receding hairline can be cause for concern.

Let’s talk about how to tell when a mature hairline has gone too far, and the key signals of a receding hairline that should be met with a smart course of action.

Identifying a Receding Hairline

We all have an intuitive understanding of what a receding hairline looks like. The Norwood scale reveals that a strong widow’s peak and temple peaks are the main areas to watch, but these can be hard to detect in the immediate term.

Here are three tell-tale signs that a mature hairline is turning into a receding hairline, so that you can get ahead of the problem early on.

Beyond a Mature Hairline

The typical mature hairline is located about an inch away from the highest crease of the forehead when you raise your eyebrows.

A receding hairline, on the other hand, will create even more space (two inches or more) between that highest crease and the point of the widow’s peak. Furthermore, the M-shape of the hairline will become even more pronounced as the corners of the hairline retreat back towards the top of the head.

Men with concerns about receding hairlines should be aware of these proportions and dimensions as they track their hairline status.

Uneven Receding (Asymmetry)

When a hairline goes from mature to receding, it typically happens in a symmetrical manner, as seen in most widow’s peaks and M-shapes.

However, asymmetrical regression is also rather common for men with pattern balding, and the signals can be quite clear as soon as this trend begins.

This is another reason why men should pay close attention to the shape of their hairlines in addition to their position on the forehead. Even if a portion of the hairline remains solid, the asymmetry can indicate that the progression of pattern balding is already underway.

General Thinning and Miniaturization

As much as it’s important to keep an eye on your hairline as you age, not all cases of male pattern balding start at the hairline.

As we see in the Norwood scale and many case studies, a mature hairline may be well maintained for years at a time while hair begins to miniaturize and thin across the scalp as a whole. Even if everything looks good up front, the quality of hair could be declining and lead to an inevitable receding hairline down the road.

Continuously assessing the quality, density, and overall scalp coverage is crucial to ensuring the protection of a mature hairline, as the likelihood of pattern balding increases by an average of ten percent per decade.

Causes of Receding Hairline (Beyond Mature)

Anyone familiar with the hair loss literature knows that we have yet to find a singular, isolated reason why hair loss occurs.

Androgenetic alopecia is the catch-all scientific term to describe balding caused by genetics, relating mainly to the reaction of DHT in the scalp and its effects on hair follicle life cycles.

The same factors appear to be at play in the development of a mature hairline and a receding hairline, which is why the link between the two is such a key area of study for leaders in the hair restoration field.

What a Receding Hairline Means

While a mature hairline is a normal stage of development for most men as they age past puberty, a receding hairline is generally accepted as a red flag and sign that further pattern balding will progress sooner than later.

Some hairlines recede within the span of a few short years, while others take decades to fully progress. With so many variables at play, our highest priority needs to be vigilance about tracking and treating a receding hairline as soon as it begins.

How To Maintaining a Mature Hairline

Most hair restoration experts advise that adult men avoid procedures like forehead lowering that bring a mature hairline to its previous position.

Instead, the best physicians will recommend a complete, customized strategy for clients to follow and boost their chances at maintaining a mature hairline for as long as possible.

Understand the Facts

For men struggling to determine the difference between a mature and receding hairline, this guide should help. Still, a second opinion from a hair loss pro can give you the full story and make sense of your situation more fully.

This will also ensure you don’t jump to conclusions or take any unnecessary measures to help your hairline cause.

Make Health a Priority

The most trustworthy and experienced hair restoration professionals will always start with a holistic approach with each patient, rather than rushing them into surgery or prescription medications.

If you have maintained a mature hairline for years already, the best thing you can do is continue living a healthy, balanced lifestyle with the pillars of diet, exercise, and stress management.

Essential oils and supplements can also help strengthen an existing hairline. These options may be useful for men in their thirties and beyond.

Take Preventive Measures

Aside from lifestyle and natural remedies, a hair restoration expert may suggest alternative therapies, such as microchanneling, or low-level laser light treatment for clients with a mature hairline.

These measures have been highly effective in the early stages of pattern balding and may fend off a receding hairline if employed consistently. Additionally, approved medicines like Minoxidil and Finasteride are most effective in this intermediate stage between a mature and receding hairline, so these should not be overlooked.

In terms of surgical procedures, small FUE operations may be best to supplement healthy hair to a mature hairline on the verge of receding. Before committing to surgery, consultation and careful planning with a hair loss pro are key.

Work With a Hair Loss Expert Who Knows

Millions of men find themselves in that strange zone between a mature hairline and a receding one. If you think it’s time to connect with a hair restoration expert, contact Jae Pak, MD, today and schedule your consultation!

 

Sources:

What is a Mature Hairline? | The Adult Man

Ways to Prevent and Treat Receding Hairline | Byrdie

Hairline Evolution | ISHRS

 

Neografting | Procedure, Recovery, Cost, and Considerations

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The field of hair restoration is always on the cutting edge.

Combining artistry, science, decades of experimentation, industry leaders are in a never-ending search for the next great thing that will restore and protect healthy hair.

But like any enterprise, not all trends are what they seem. You’ve got to look beyond the buzzwords and determine whether a new tool or technique is really a leap forward or just a repackaging of an existing idea.

With NeoGraft technology, the jury is still out – is this a revolutionary method of hair restoration or something we’ve already seen before?

Let’s do a deep dive on Neografting and get the story straight. We’ll cover the concept, the procedure, and what you can expect in terms of recovery and results. Here we go.

 

What is NeoGraft?

You may have seen NeoGraft marketed heavily in the past few years, claiming to be the latest and greatest advancement in hair restoration technology.

Is NeoGraft actually something new and unique? Here’s what you need to know about the technology and the business behind it.

 

Technology

At its core, NeoGraft is a piece of technology involving a large center console and a handheld device used to extract and implant follicle units, just as one might expect from most hair transplant techniques.

There’s no doubt that the NeoGraft equipment looks and feels like next-generation machinery. The design is sleek, the handpiece feels heavy and solid, and it’s relatively easy for technicians to get a grip on the technology in a relatively short period.

In a world where hair transplants are becoming more popular and widespread, it makes sense that more clinics would be interested in something like NeoGraft, especially since the product has been marketed so aggressively in the industry.

A big reason why NeoGraft has gained so much traction in recent years is the striking similarity to a hair transplant method known as Follicular Unit Excision or FUE.

 

Business Model

Beyond the actual NeoGraft machinery, there is a highly coordinated business strategy that many clients deserve to know about.

While the NeoGraft technology is perfectly functional and capable, it’s the approach taken by the company that might raise some questions and concerns.

Firstly, the NeoGraft strategy is to target clinics behind the curve on technology and need an all-in-one upgrade to make them more competitive in the market.

There’s nothing wrong with that, but the problem is the claim that NeoGraft can compensate for lack of technique or experience with hair transplantation and that technicians can perform these operations just as easily and efficiently as seasoned experts.

In other words, NeoGraft claims to be a “quick and easy fix” for clinics that want to get into the hair transplant market but might not have a deep roster of experienced surgeons waiting to fill those essential roles.

The consequence of this is an industry that lacks fundamentals and may not deliver the best possible service to clients. This isn’t to say that NeoGraft can perform quality hair transplants, but what matters more is the person controlling the machine.

 

The NeoGraft Procedure

While FUE requires technical and expensive instruments and high standards of training, NeoGraft claims to simplify and accelerate the process with proprietary technology. Here’s how the procedure works and what clients can expect along the way.

 

Extraction

The NeoGraft procedure begins by targeting healthy hair from the donor area of the scalp, which is typically found on the back of the head close to the neck. These healthy and durable hairs make the best and most permanent grafts for the scalp.

Within every NeoGraft instrument is a small tube containing a circular blade capable of piercing and gripping tissue from around the follicle units of the scalp. 

The system involves a series of pressurized tubes and pedals controlled by technicians to maximize efficiency and reduce the risk of transaction (damage to the follicles).

The actual extraction method for Neografting requires the user to push down and “punch” the hair-bearing skin to remove a follicle unit from the subcutaneous layer of the skin. Once the skin “core” is extracted and contained within the tube, the deep-rooted follicle is then pulled and extracted in full.

It’s much closer to a “point-and-click” experience for users compared to a traditional FUE procedure or something requiring more inputs and variables.

Surgeons and techs will typically extract hair in a consistent pattern so that the skin on the donor area can heal more evenly and so they have a wide range of different follicle units to work with. 

For example, some units may contain just one usable hair, while others will have three or four.

Follicles will also have slightly different angles and compositions based on where they lie in the scalp, and this helps surgeons decide where they should be placed in the donor area.

 

Implantation

Once follicle units are extracted and consolidated in a dish or solution, technicians must then dissect and process them for implantation to the donor region.

Not only is the NeoGraft machine capable of extracting these units, but the same equipment can make incisions on the scalp and graft units with impressive speed and accuracy. This is an undeniable advantage of the technology, provided it’s in the right hands.

The implantation process uses the same mechanism as the extraction, making a cylindrical hole in the skin that is just deep and wide enough for a new follicle unit to be introduced. Grafts are hand-selected by the surgeon to be implanted for aesthetic appeal and lasting results.

When the NeoGraft is operated by a trained professional, the process is relatively fast and requires less time than a typical FUE procedure. A few doctors around the world such as Dr. Jae Pak of Jae Pak MD Medical in Los Angeles are able to work at the same pace and precision without the aide of NeoGrafts. Doctors with this level of expertise and experience are difficult to find though. 

However, compared to a Follicular Unit Transplant (FUT) technique, Neografting is not quite as efficient, nor can it be used for long mega sessions involving thousands of grafts per session.

Of course, many factors come into play when undergoing a hair transplant procedure of any type. As we’ll discuss in the final section, clients must consider a wide range of variables when selecting a type of procedure for their goals.

 

Recovery

The NeoGraft procedure typically takes anywhere from three to six hours per session. Patients can usually drive themselves home that same day if they’re feeling lucid and haven’t taken any medications that could interfere.

When recovering, the process and timeline are essentially the same as FUE, requiring at least one full week of complete rest and no physical activity. Be sure to reach out to your clinic with any questions about aftercare protocol or if there are any unusual developments in your recovery.

The first few days will be when some bleeding and scabbing occur on the donor and recipient regions, and clients must resist the urge to touch or scratch these areas to maximize the healing rate.

Within a week, redness and swelling will reduce almost entirely, and most discomfort and irritation will subside as well.

In the next several weeks, clients can return to work and normal physical activity, and there will be an official follow-up meeting with the surgeon to track progress. Hair will fall out from the donor area shortly thereafter, but it will grow back more fully and completely in the following months.

To maximize the results of Neografting or any other hair transplantation procedure, clients should also consider taking medications, making lifestyle changes, or taking other recommendations from hair restoration specialists to keep their new hair long and strong.

 

Is NeoGraft Right for You?

There’s a lot to like about the NeoGraft technology, but the entire philosophy and business model have some flaws that can’t be ignored. Here’s our final assessment of Neografting and some parting words to help you make the best decision moving forward.

 

Technique Matters Most

Even if you’ve done only basic research on hair restoration surgery, you’ve probably realized that technique and experience are the main factors in hair transplant quality and client satisfaction.

This is the primary issue with NeoGraft technology and others like it. There is no substitute for the steady hand and the artistic vision of a highly trained surgeon who has been performing these procedures for years.

Don’t be misled by advertising and other flashy marketing tactics. NeoGraft technology can be effective when used by the right people, but you won’t be getting the top-quality hair transplant in many cases.

 

Find the Right Surgeon

Let’s say you are eager to try Neografting, but you don’t want to risk being the subject of a first-time technician’s hair transplant experiment – that’s understandable!

In this case, make sure you put in the research when selecting a surgeon and clinic. This can’t be emphasized enough: go with a Board Certified M.D. surgeon when dealing with NeoGraft, and make no exceptions.

During a consultation, explicitly ask and make sure a qualified surgeon will be performing your procedure and nobody else. This is vitally important for protecting yourself and your investment.

 

Start the Process Today

NeoGrafting can be done well when in the right hands, and the technology has its advantages. However, nothing compares to top-notch FUE surgery performed by industry-leading surgeons.

Schedule your consultation with Jae Pak, MD today, and take the first step on your hair restoration journey.

 

Sources:

Hair Restoration Surgery Program | Mass General

Truth About NeoGraft | McGrath Medical

FUE vs. NeoGraft | Southeastern Aesthetic Surgery

Hair Transplant Surgery Procedure | Step by Step

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Finding a doctor and going through the consultation process is only the beginning of your hair transplant experience. Many potential patients are curious about the actual process of the surgery and what happens on a technical and medical level.

Even though you might have a basic understanding of how hair transplants work, you might be interested in zooming in and seeing what the process involves with a more detailed explanation.

Today, we’re going step by step to show you exactly how hair transplants happen and clear up any points of confusion you might have about the process.

 

Arrival and Preparation

At the consultation, you and the surgeon will have mapped out a clear plan for your hair transplant, including details like the construction of your hairline, the number of grafts required, the length of the procedure, and more.

Of course, you will also set a date and time for the surgery, and you should follow the surgeon’s directions for the weeks and days leading up to the main event.

 

Meeting with Surgeon

When you finally arrive at the clinic on the day of surgery, you will connect with the surgeon once again to review the details of the procedure and ensure that everything is in order.

By now, you should have complete confidence in the abilities of the surgeon and the technicians assisting in your procedure. This is the time to ask any last questions before preparing for the surgery itself.

 

Ready for Surgery

You may have your hair washed by a technician at this stage, and the surgeon will mark the designated areas on your scalp to give visual reference points for himself and technicians during the procedure. From there, you will enter the operating room and be seated comfortably in a reclined position.

A local anesthetic will then be administered to the donor area of the scalp, which is where hair will be harvested and processed before grafting individual units to the recipient areas of the scalp. Depending on the type of procedure, you may or may not receive an anesthetic to the recipient area at this time.

As the staff begins to get to work, you will have the option to watch TV, listen to music or an audiobook, or just relax and ease into the process.

 

Harvesting Hair from the Scalp

No matter what type of hair transplant you sign up for, the first portion of the procedure will always involve harvesting hair from the donor area, typically at the back of the scalp towards the neck.

Let’s discuss the two main types of hair transplants and how the harvesting process differs between them.

 

FUT

Follicular Unit Transplant, also known as FUT or strip surgery, is the most popular form of hair transplant, and you will most likely choose for your own procedure.

Patients do not need to shave the back of their heads prior to this procedure.

With a scalpel, the surgeon will make a thin, horizontal incision along the back of the head to remove a strip of hair-bearing skin containing plenty of robust and healthy follicle units.

The length of the strip will depend on the number of grafts needed to cover the designated spaces on the recipient area, and the surgeon will aim to extract only as much skin as is necessary to fulfill that goal.

From the client’s perspective, there might be a slight pulling or pinching sensation on the donor area where the strip of skin is being removed, but this does not last long, and the wound is quickly patched up by the surgeon or a member of the staff.

There is also a high volume of blood flow in this area of the body, meaning your natural healing capabilities will be working overtime to close up the opening with the help of sutures.

An interesting point about FUT is that the surgeon and technicians only spend about 20% or 30% of the total surgery time working directly on the patient. Most of the attention is focused on processing follicle units and preparing them for grafting, which we’ll discuss soon.

 

FUE

An increasingly popular alternative to FUT is known as Follicular Unit Excision, or FUE.

For this procedure, the clients are required to shave their heads to allow surgeons and techs more direct access to the follicle units at the back of the head.

Since FUE is a method of harvesting donor hair, this is the critical variable that sets it apart from FUT or other strip surgery forms.

Rather than removing a horizontal piece of hair from the donor area, the surgeon will use a specially-designed hole-punch tool to extract individual clusters of hair known as follicle units from the back of the head.

This is an essential distinction from FUT for a few reasons.

First, it is a far more involved process for both the patient and surgeon compared to strip surgery. Instead of spending about a quarter of the time working directly on the patient, the doctor will spend more than 75% of the time extracting and grafting hair.

FUE also tends to take more time overall and yields fewer units to work with despite demanding greater input. However, there is less scarring, bleeding, and FUE is considered a less invasive procedure, by and large.

Keep in mind that when deciding on a procedure type, the experiences are slightly different between the two, among other factors that go into your choice.

 

Processing and Grafting

Whether you’ve had hair harvested via FUT or FUE,  the units from the donor site must be quickly processed and transplanted. Here’s how it’s done and what’s different between the two major procedures.

 

Preparing Follicle Units

The hair taken from the donor area cannot be directly grafted to the scalp if surgeons want to maximize the effectiveness of these grafts.

That’s why a large part of the surgical duration is dedicated to processing and preparing follicle units from the donor area to be adequately grafted and take root with the most aesthetic, permanent results.

In the case of FUT, technicians are responsible for dissecting the hair-bearing skin, locating the best follicle units within the strip, and preparing them for grafting soon thereafter.

There is little time to waste at this stage since follicles are most effectively transplanted when they are still alive and well. The sooner they can be processed and grafted, the better.

Based on the instructions of the head surgeon, technicians will reduce the strip of skin to follicle units of a certain size, anywhere from 1 to 10 hairs total. 

Not all units will be the same size, depending on the surgeon’s vision for coverage and natural-looking density.

If FUE is the method of harvesting, technicians will process these units as they are extracted one by one from the patient’s donor area. These round-shaped punch grafts are typically lower in hair follicle volume.

We can see that FUT grants surgeons a higher volume of quality hair and that they have more control over the size and shape of the units to be grafted. FUE offers plenty of strong hair for transplantation, though maybe not to the same extent of quality and quantity.

 

Grafting New Hair

When there are sufficient units processed and ready for transplantation, the surgeon will begin to make small incisions on the recipient area and carefully place follicles units into their designated areas.

This is the surgeon’s primary area of focus as technicians continue to examine and dissect hair from the donor area. Depending on the surgeon’s technique, they will move back and forth from extraction to grafting when performing FUE, although the steps usually happen one at a time.

In most cases, incisions will be made approximately 1/8 of an inch apart from each other, and surgeons will select the right-sized unit for placement in the proper direction for the best coverage. Hundreds to thousands of grafts can be set in a single session.

With an FUE procedure, things are slightly less precise due to the uniform size and shape of the units, but satisfactory results can still be achieved.

From the patient’s point of view, the grafting process can come with minor discomfort but is not considered painful by most clients.

 

Bandaging and Completion

When the final graft has been placed into the last gap on the hairline or vertex, the surgeon will clean and bandage the area, complete the surgery, and step out of the room before returning for a final meeting with the patient.

The surgeon will overview how the procedure went, and their staff will reiterate the instructions for recovery and give the patient everything they need for proper aftercare protocols.

The client will then head home and begin the recovery process, which will require a few daysof rest and caution before incorporating more regular activities for the next couple weeks.

 

Hair Transplantation Made Simple

The hair transplant process is a fantastic feat of technology and artistry. Now that you know what goes into each procedure, you may have a deeper appreciation for what these professionals do each day.

With that in mind, you can see first-hand why it’s so important to choose a high-quality surgeon and clinic for your procedure, whether it’s FUE, FUT, or something else. If you’re ready to book a consultation with Jae Pak, MD, there’s no better time than now.

 

Sources:

Follicular Unit Extraction Hair Transplant | NIH

Hair Replacement Surgery | Johns Hopkins Medicine

Hair Transplant Information | Mount Sinai

Hair Transplant Scars | Everything a Potential Patient Needs to Know

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With modern hair transplant techniques, side effects and complications are minimal. The likelihood of infection is basically out of the question, and the recovery process is also more manageable than ever before.

However, scarring is the one downside that many potential patients grapple with when considering hair restoration surgery, and it’s a topic that comes up at some point in every consultation.

What procedures lead to hair transplant scarring, how much of a problem does it pose, and what can be done to keep these unattractive marks to a minimum?

Let’s talk about all the variables at play when looking at hair transplant scars and offer some tips to clients who are thinking about jumping into the process.

 

What Causes Hair Transplant Scars?

The human body is quite resilient, regulating countless systems in equilibrium and patching itself up from damage and attacks. Scars are one of the many ways the body heals from severe trauma to tissue of the skin.

While scarring might not be considered attractive, it’s a perfectly normal function of the body and a sign that everything is working well. You want your skin to form scars, even if you don’t like how they look.

Depending on the type of hair transplant you receive, scarring will take different forms and have unique patterns. Here are some common types of procedures that you might consider and the scars that may come with them.

 

FUT

Most of the hair transplants performed nowadays are Follicular Unit Transplant (FUT) procedures, also known as “strip harvesting” or “strip surgery.”

These shorthand names give you an idea of how FUT works. The procedure begins with a wide, horizontal incision on the back of the patient’s scalp, known as the donor area.

This incision is done to remove a strip of hair-bearing skin from the region, which technicians will then examine, dissect, and process into individual follicle units to be implanted on the recipient region.

While the incisions on the donor area can range in size, they are generally relatively wide and long, especially if the surgeon requires a lot of hair for transplantation to the scalp. Once the desired amount of tissue is removed, the surgeon will then close up the wound on the back of the head with stitches and proceed to the grafting process.

As you might imagine, this leads to a linear scar on the back of the patient’s head, which is almost unavoidable, even when performed by the world’s best hair restoration surgeons.

Later, we’ll discuss the different types of scars that can result from strip harvesting, but for now, remember that it is almost impossible to perform FUT without some degree of scarring in the donor region.

 

FUE

The quick rise in popularity of Follicular Unit Excision (FUE) is largely due to the issue of scarring that occurs from FUT procedures.

FUE is a method in which surgeons use a circular scalpel or “punch tool” to remove individual follicle units from the donor area, rather than making a long and wide horizontal incision on the back of the head.

The result is an extraction process that drastically minimizes the amount and severity of scarring on the donor area and has a few key advantages for patients.

Firstly, the client can wear their hair shaved short in the back, whereas they might be hesitant to do so with a linear scar from FUT. Next, the recovery process is also considered slightly more comfortable after an FUE procedure since it’s generally less invasive to the skin.

Finally, while some small scars result from FUE, they are typically much smaller and spread throughout a broader donor region. The hair that ends up on the recipient area is, for the most part, just as reliable and healthy, with minimal transection.

 

Other Cosmetic Hair Procedures

Nowadays, the mechanisms and techniques used for hair transplants are being applied to other areas of the body and face, with increasing popularity and success.

Eyebrow transplant is an example of a surgery requiring minimal hair-bearing tissue from the donor region, though scarring is still expected if strip-method is used.

Facial hair transplant is also being practiced more widely, and once again, some scarring can occur based on the method applied.

Keep in mind that scarring is simply a part of hair transplants, whether they’re targeting the scalp, face, or anywhere else. While scarring can be minimized or covered up, this is often just a part of the experience and a trade-off you need to consider.

 

Types of Scarring from Hair Transplants

We have an idea of why scars happen due to hair transplants, but what types of scars can you expect from certain procedures, and what factors determine the size and shape of these scars? Let’s find out.

 

Donor Area

When it comes to FUT, donor area scars tend to be long, straight, and horizontal, extending from one side of the head to the other.

Depending on how much skin was removed during the harvesting process, scars can have different properties and characteristics. For instance, a small scar from an eyebrow transplant may be smooth and appear to be the same color as the patient’s skin.

However, a scar from a FUT mega session will be longer, more noticeable, and might be slightly off-colored as the result of the large wound that must heal from the procedure.

It should be mentioned that the severity of scarring is not only due to the type of procedure but also the ability and experience of the surgeon running the show. A veteran FUT expert will leave a better-looking scar than a haphazard FUE procedure any day.

With this in mind, remember to prioritize choosing a quality surgeon instead of chasing the lowest prices, the latest marketing campaigns, or the most convenient procedures.  

 

Recipient Area

When hair is transplanted to the recipient region on the scalp, some minor scarring can also occur due to tiny incisions made by the surgeon for the implantation of new follicle units.

These scars are often far less noticeable or severe than those on the donor area, simply due to the presence of new and healthy hair taking root and covering up the scalp with greater density. 

Many follicle units contain several hair strands, camouflaging the skin beneath, and longer hairstyles will make any scarring undetectable.

One potential problem can arise if hair once again begins to thin after time passes or if follicles are damaged during the implantation process and cannot take root.

Scars on the hairline or vertex may become visible, and patients may want treatment to minimize or remove these marks.

 

Dealing with Hair Transplant Scars

It’s hard to avoid scarring altogether when undergoing a hair transplant, but there are ways to help these scars look and feel better as time goes on. Here are some treatments that patients may want to consider once their procedures are complete.

 

Camouflaging and Treatments

As we mentioned, the easiest way to cover scars on the donor area is to simply wear longer hairstyles and cover them up as you go about your day.

While this might be an issue for people who prefer a shaved head or a short-in-the-back style, it can be a satisfactory solution for most folks who are happy to wear their hair long once again.

There are also methods to improve the appearance of scars over time. Although scars might never go away completely, they can be minimized in a few effective ways.

Many over-the-counter products claim to help heal scars and cause them to fade with continued application. Cosmetic treatments like microchanneling, dermabrasion, laser resurfacing, and radiotherapy can accelerate the process and achieve better results.

Finally, many hair transplant patients opt for a procedure called scalp micropigmentation after they are completely healed. This method involves hundreds of tiny “tattoos” placed on the area of scarring to give it a more dense and natural appearance of shaved hair.

SMP is best for men or women who wear their hair short in the back, though it can also be used to fill in gaps across the entire head if the patient prefers the close-shaved look all around.

 

Choose a Great Surgeon

It’s worth reiterating that a top-tier surgeon can dramatically impact the scarring that a patient will experience after a hair transplant.

A proper hair restoration specialist will use the best methods and technologies to minimize scarring and administer proper aftercare and healing treatments to ensure the scars do not worsen after the fact.

Of course, patients also have a responsibility to look after their scars during the recovery stage, but a good surgeon will guide them during this time with the right instructions and supplies.

 

The Results You Want with Minimal Scarring

For most hair transplant patients, scars from FUT strip surgery are a reasonable tradeoff they’re happy to make to gain their healthy scalp hair back once again.

However, scarring can still be an issue for some patients, making FUE a better overall option. No matter what procedure you choose, a great surgeon will help minimize scarring and make the most of every graft for lasting, satisfying results.

Schedule your consultation with Jae Pak, MD to find out more information and get started on the process.

 

Sources:

Is FUE Scarless? | ISHRS

Hair Transplant | American Academy of Dermatology Association

Types of Scars | NHS

Hair Transplant Complications

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When we hear of a new medication, treatment, or procedure for hair loss, we focus on the benefits before addressing any possible side effects or issues.

For example, with a hair transplant, there are plenty of cases where the surgeon is highly trained, the procedure goes well, and the results are long-lasting and satisfactory. However, there is always the off-chance of complications with any surgery, hair transplants included.

Let’s talk about a few complications that might happen during a hair transplant or the recovery process, including potential side effects or issues from a visual standpoint. 

We’ll also cover some essential tips on how to help you keep these complications to a minimum or avoid them altogether. Let’s get started.

 

General Complications

When you undergo surgery of any kind, you’re taking at least some risk, and there is no exception to this rule for hair transplantation.

Here are some of the general complications that can occur when getting a hair transplant procedure of any kind.

 

Reactions to Medications

A hair transplant will typically begin with the injection of a local anesthetic to the donor area – typically the back of the head near the neck – and the recipient areas of the scalp.

There is no reaction to this medication in the vast majority of cases, and things will proceed as usual. 

Thankfully, patients do not need a high dosage of relief medication or general anesthesia to undergo a hair transplant.

 

Aesthetic Issues and Errors

The process of hair transplantation is a bit different from other types of surgery in that there are artistic and technical aspects to the procedure that will impact the results.

The follicle units harvested from the donor area are only a few millimeters long, as are the incisions on the scalp that must be made for transplantation. With all of these factors in mind, the surgeon and the team may make errors that may not be noticeable for several months after the procedure has been completed.

For example, grafts could be placed at an angle that goes against the “grain” of the hair, or the density of these grafts may be too concentrated or spread out, creating an unnatural look.

The goal of a hair transplant is to make new grafts appear just as natural hair would grow on the head, including the correct angle, density, pattern, and other factors. There is also the issue of forming an aesthetic hairline and ensuring that hair remains healthy and stable in place.

 

Other Side Effects and Concerns

With any type of hair transplant, the patient canexperience infection in the donor area or the recipient area. This is due to the series of incisions made on the recipient area and the varying harvest methods we’ll discuss further.

While there’s less than a 1% chance for serious infection, it’s important that surgeons and patients are extremely cautious about hygiene and keeping the area clean before and after the procedure.

More commonly, patients mayexperience itching, irritation, and some unsightly scabbing or crusting on the recipient area. This is almost impossible to avoid on some level and isn’t necessarily a bad thing – the body is simply doing its best to heal damage to the skin.

Lastly, there can be a problem of scarring, which can also occur in both patient and recipient regions of the head.

The severity and visibility of scars can depend on the patient’s skin type, ability to heal, and mostly, the technical abilities of the doctor performing the procedure. 

 

Procedure Types and Potential Risks

Since several types of hair transplant techniques are used, different complications mayoccur based on these varying methods and technologies.

Keep these points in mind when choosing a procedure and making essential decisions about doctors, clinics, and other factors.

 

Follicular Unit Transplant

The most popular type of hair transplant is FUT, which will be the likely choice for the typical client. As far as complications go, there are a few considerations to point out.

Firstly, FUT is also known as strip surgery, meaning the donor hair is harvested through a long, horizontal portion of skin from the back of the head.

Since there is a considerable amount of blood flow in this area, there are usually few issues when healing. Still, it’s essential to be highly aware of the incision point when recovering from FUT. Donor area complications can include infection, issues with sutures, and numbness or persistent discomfort in the area.

Another potential problem with FUT surgery is the high volume of follicles that must be grafted to the recipient area, which increases the chances of complications on the scalp.

FUT is the best-known technique for performing “mega session” hair transplants with many thousands of grafts in a single procedure, which means that surgeons and technicians will work for longer periods with higher amounts of follicles to process and graft.

With greater concentrations of grafts, patients may be more likely to experience crusting, swelling, bleeding, or tenderness following the procedure, and recovery will typically take longer on both the donor and recipient areas.

Higher graft volumes are usually par for the course with most FUT procedures, and with proper aftercare, complications can be avoided. Also, keep in mind that you will need to be more discerning when choosing a doctor and clinic because FUT is much more widely practiced.

 

Follicular Unit Excision

A less common hair transplant technique, FUE, has not been around as long as FUT, and requires more labor and experience for the doctor to perform the procedure.

The key difference here is the method by which hair is harvested from the back of the scalp. Rather than a strip of hair-bearing skin, FUE surgeons use a precise instrument to pinpoint and extract individual follicle units from the donor area, then process the units for grafting.

The result is a low overall yield of usable hair and a longer, more expensive surgical process. However, many clients are intrigued by FUE for smaller, more targeted transplants and that no horizontal scar is formed on the back of the head.

Still, there are complications in both the recipient and donor areas when undergoing FUE, and clients should be aware of these.

The most common FUE complication is an aesthetic one. The donor site can have a moth-eaten or patchy appearance due to overharvesting of follicles or mismanagement of the area. There also might be some minor scarring on the donor site that can be uncomfortable or lead to minor medical issues.

The patchy look can often be avoided by growing hair a bit longer, but this defeats the purpose of FUE surgery for patients who want to wear close-cropped hair. Furthermore, donor area depletion can leave the area looking thin and uneven, even with longer hairstyles.

Finally, patients should be aware of problems with transection (damage to the follicles) when recovering from FUE since the hair may not be as strong and durable compared to those harvested via FUT.

 

Other Hair Replacement Procedures

Hair transplants are more popular than ever. With the widespread interest in procedures like FUT and FUE, more surgeons and clinics are offering surgeries such as hairline lowering for women and eyebrow and facial hair transplants.

While these practices are still gaining traction and support from the hair restoration and cosmetic surgery community, they rely on the same technologies and techniques as standard hair transplants. The back of the head still yields the best donor hair, and incisions are made with similar instruments used in FUT and FUE.

With comparable fundamentals, this means that similar complications can occur, and patients must be aware of the potential for infection, scarring, and other aesthetic or medical issues when undergoing these procedures.

Generally, hair restoration specialists who have demonstrated exceptional technique in FUE and FUT are better suited for these other types of surgeries and should be trusted over cosmetic and plastic surgeons.

 

Avoiding Complications

To minimize complications of hair transplantation or avoid them altogether, there are a few essential tips to remember.

 

Pick the Right Surgeon and Clinic

Your surgeon and clinic really make all the difference when undergoing hair transplant surgery, whether it’s FUT, FUE, or some other type of treatment for eyebrows or facial hair.

Be sure to do extensive research online and in-person to find the best possible specialist, and during the consultation, aim for a complete assessment of your hair restoration needs.

The best surgeons will recommend a transplant in conjunction with other treatments and medications to ensure the best, long-lasting results for you.

 

Follow Recovery and Aftercare Instructions

The recovery process can beconsiderably more challenging for the patient compared to the surgery itself. However, by sticking to the instructions from the doctor, they can avoid complications and keep discomfort to a minimum.

From hygiene and medication to sleep and lifestyle tips, patients must make no assumptions or take any shortcuts for recovery and aftercare. This could mean the difference between satisfactory results and serious issues.

 

Be Confident in Your Game Plan

If you’re eager to explore your options for hair transplant but fearful about complications, connect with a top specialist in the field and go over your specific concerns.

Discussing the potential problems and determining solutions in advance will help put these uncertainties to rest and ensure you’re in the right hands for a hair transplant.

 

Sources:

Risks of Hair Transplant Surgery | American Society of Plastic Surgeons

Hair Transplant | Cleveland Clinic

Complications in Hair Transplant | NIH

What is Minoxidil and Why Do We Use It?

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Anyone dealing with hair loss knows a thing or two about trial and error. Even the slightest first sign of a receding hairline, bald patch, or thinning can trigger a frantic search for solutions.

One of the first things to appear in the search results is Minoxidil, the main ingredient in the super popular Rogaine.

It might be the most widely-used hair loss product available, but does it deliver results?

Let’s find out exactly what Minoxidil is, how it’s meant to work, and what outcomes you can expect when adding it to your hair loss regimen. 

 

How Minoxidil Works

While Minoxidil is far from a magical hair regrowth solution, it does have a great deal of legitimate science supporting it.

Classified as a vasodilator, the basic idea behind this drug is to increase the level of blood flow to the target area, thereby stimulating the hair follicle units and promoting growth. More specifically, the drug aims to lengthen the growth stage of the hair cycle, which is commonly thought to shorten with age and a rise in DHT levels. The theory is that if the growth cycle of the follicle unit is elongated, the user will see hair loss slow down and possibly reverse.

However, even experts in the area are uncertain exactly why Minoxidil is effective, and how the underlying mechanisms truly work.

Still, millions of men and women use this drug every year in hopes that they can combat hair loss and see a reversal in fortune.

 

Minoxidil’s Rise in Popularity

We’ve seen Minoxidil repackaged and marketed in many different ways over the years, but this is not a new drug. It was first introduced in the 1950s as a drug to treat ulcers, but tests showed it to have a better impact on hypertension and related conditions.

By 1963, the drug was named and branded by Michigan’s Upjohn Company, a small pharmaceutical manufacturer that later became part of Pfizer. During continued testing of the drug for high blood pressure, researchers observed a side effect of hair growth. This sparked interest from numerous scientists focused on the project, and a long legal battle ensued to determine patent rights to the formula. 

For the next 20 years or so, scientists rigorously tested Minoxidil for its effects on hair regrowth and the prevention of hair loss. A big boost for the drug came when it was approved by the FDA in the 1990s, making it a more legitimate choice for hair restoration specialists and general physicians.

Now, it is the only topical solution approved for androgenetic hair loss, and that reputation carries it far in markets across the world.

With the seal of approval for both men and women, and made available in various formulas and dosages, Minoxidil stands alone as the definitive topical hair loss drug.

 

Who is Minoxidil For?

Anyone eager to hop aboard the Minoxidil train should know that it is meant to work for only a specific segment of hair loss cases. The medicine is strictly for individuals experiencing male or female pattern baldness as a result of hereditary conditions. That term specifically refers to androgenetic alopecia, which is responsible for more than half of balding cases in the population, for both men and women.

Studies show that Minoxidil is most effective for patients who are in the early stages of hair loss, ideally having experienced thinning and loss for five years or less. That means that long-term hair loss sufferers are unlikely to see the same degree of success with the drug as someone who detected the pattern early on.

There’s also a consensus in the hair-loss community that Minoxidil is most effective on the area to the rear of the vertex, commonly called the “bald spot” at the back of the head. While many users apply the medication to their hairlines, temples, and other parts of the frontal scalp, clinical trials show that growth in these areas is not nearly as likely.

Age does also play a factor here. Minoxidil works best for folks under 40 years of age and is most effective when the first signs of baldness occur.

 

How to Obtain and Apply Minoxidil

Since Minoxidil is considered generally safe and effective, it is typically available over the counter. In some countries, prescriptions may be required. 

While the drug is easy to find and relatively cheap, men and women suffering from hair loss should always consult a physician before trying any new treatment. Not only are there health concerns with any new medication, but doctors may advise another approach to hair loss before they suggest Minoxidil. If you do get the green light from your doctor, make sure you follow the exact instructions and avoid overuse.

The topical solution is fairly quick and easy to apply.

  • Thoroughly dry the hair and scalp prior to application.
  • Gently rub the prescribed amount into the target area, starting at the center and moving outward to the edges.
  • Allow the solution to dry naturally on the area for at least four hours before showering, going to bed, wearing a hat, or taking off clothes over the head.
  • Do not blow-dry the area or use a fan to accelerate drying.
  • Spend at least 20 seconds washing hands after application and ensure the liquid does not spill over to any clothes, furniture, towels, or bed sheets.

If you accidentally let some of the solution touch linens or clothes, immediately wash the items by themselves in the washing machine.

Only about 1 milliliter of the solution is necessary per application, and most doctors recommend applying twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening. Do not double-dose if you miss an application. Simply skip the dose and resume use at the next designated time. Minoxidil will not have the prescribed effect if more solution is applied.

The key to applying Minoxidil is caution and care. The solution is not to be ingested or applied to any area other than the targeted area of hair loss.

 

Minoxidil Results

So we know who should take Minoxidil, as well as what it aims to do, but what results can someone with pattern baldness expect from use?

Many experts continue to reference the landmark trial that put the drug on the map back in 1987. In this study, 40 percent of the men tested showed moderate to dense regrowth on affected areas on the crown of the head. More trials have also been done over time, showing similar results.

According to a 2015 study from Dermatological Therapy titled “Clinical utility and validity of minoxidil response testing in androgenetic alopecia,” 62 percent of men saw hair regrowth in the span of 3 to 6 months.

These results are pretty consistent across the board for trials on male pattern balding, and positive outcomes are even more likely for men who make positive lifestyle changes as a part of their programs. 

The research showed that results for women were also very promising. The trial saw that 60 percent of women who tested Minoxidil saw improved rates of hair growth, compared to the 40 percent in the placebo group.

Women tend to experience hair thinning along the middle part of their hair, rather than in a circular bald spot or a receding hairline. This aspect of androgenetic alopecia is considered to be more closely related to blood flow and its effects on the hair cycles, which means that women can see great results from Minoxidil.

Some doctors also say that age has less of an impact on the results of Minoxidil for women, suggesting that they can achieve meaningful results from the drug even if they are over 40 years old.

It is rare to see the immediate effects of Minoxidil, as consistent applications are necessary to let the medicine act over time on the scalp.

If hair loss continues after two weeks of use, you should stop the regimen and seek alternatives. It’s entirely possible that Minoxidil is simply not an effective treatment for some men and women, which is why guidance from a hair loss expert is especially important.

 

Possible Side Effects of Minoxidil

Just like any other medical treatment, you’ll want to closely monitor the status of your hair, as well as your overall health, while taking Minoxidil daily. While the side effects of this drug are not very common, they can be serious if you go overboard with dosing or simply have a natural adverse reaction to the compounds. The most widely reported side effect of Minoxidil is continued itching or skin rash in the affected area. 

Upon application, it is typical to experience a bit of a sunburn sensation or some tingling. As long as you follow the prescribed dose amount, this is generally nothing to worry about if you experience this. If you experience irritation like this for more than a week or two, you will want to contact your doctor and consider changing course.

In some rare cases, the side effects of Minoxidil can be more severe, and give a clear signal to the user that they should stop the application immediately.

Since the drug was originally designed for the purposes of treating hypertension and high blood pressure, it is especially important for users with these underlying conditions to seek consultation with a doctor before using Minoxidil, as well as during use.

 

Stopping Minoxidil Use

As previously stated, Minoxidil is not for everyone, and if you aren’t getting the results you want from the medication, it’s probably smart to discontinue use.

You will know if the medication is effective within less than four months of the first application, provided you are sticking closely to the prescribed usage. Unless you are highly satisfied with your progress, there is no real reason to keep applying daily and hoping for better outcomes. It is not a wise use of time, money, and effort.

If you and your specialist do decide it’s time to discontinue Minoxidil, there are some things you should keep in mind.

First, it takes less than three months after stopping Minoxidil to see hair return to its previous state. That means that any progress made on Minoxidil, whether it be reduced loss rate, increased thickness, or growth, will be reversed. This does not necessarily mean that hair loss will occur at a faster rate than usual after the medication stops working, just that patients should expect a return to normal.

Since maintaining the benefits of Minoxidil means using it for life, some patients are discouraged from continued use. Even if you are skeptical about lifetime use of the drug, physicians often suggest that you try it for three months and see if you like the results, especially if you are a good candidate for use.

If and when you do decide to stop using Minoxidil, there are a few things you can do that may help you hold on to some of those gains.

 

The first is essential oils, which help to maintain a healthy scalp while strengthening the roots of the follicles, in some cases. Since Minoxidil works to boost the strength of existing hair on the scalp, oils such as lavender, peppermint, or tea tree can help to support that strength.

Healthy changes are also highly recommended when coming off Minoxidil if you haven’t yet already made them. Healthier eating, lower stress, and a good exercise regimen can ensure that strong blood flow continues to the scalp.

 

Minoxidil as Part of a Hair Restoration Regimen

While many men and women can see satisfactory results from Minoxidil use alone, hair restoration specialists often suggest using the drug as a part of a broader strategy to stop hair loss and stimulate regrowth.

The drug most commonly paired with Minoxidil is a 5-alpha reductase inhibitor known as Finasteride. This oral medication is prescribed to target and reduce DHT levels in the scalp, which are thought to be the main contributor to pattern baldness.

Since DHT is a derivative of the male sex hormone testosterone, doctors do not prescribe Finasteride to women. Luckily, women tend to still benefit from Minoxidil alone, so additional medication is rarely necessary for them to see good results.

Minoxidil is also commonly prescribed by doctors who perform hair transplants such as Follicular Unit Strip Surgery of Follicular Unit Excision.

In these procedures, healthy follicles are harvested from a donor area, typically on the back of the neck or the side of the head, and grafted on to the top of the crown or hairline where most patients have suffered losses.

Although hair transplants cost more upfront and require more planning than picking up a couple medications, hair restoration surgeries are known for giving patients impressive transformations, and have a high satisfaction rate.

As these new grafts take root on the scalp, Minoxidil can be very effective to ensure that the follicles remain strong and further hair loss, namely on the vertex. It is important to wait until the affected area is completely healed and that the grafted hair has fully taken root before applying Minoxidil. Patients recovering from hair transplant surgery will be advised by their doctors in the post-op stage as to when they can start topical treatment.

Since the recipient area of the scalp is particularly sensitive in the weeks and months following hair transplant surgery, patients using Minoxidil need to keep a very close eye on their progress with the drug. Side effects of Minoxidil such as acne, swelling, and headache tend to be more common during the surgical recovery phase because of the increased permeability of the skin cells on the scalp.

 

Conclusion

If you haven’t yet considered Minoxidil and you are experiencing thinning hair on the top of the crown, this is definitely a medication to consider.

Once again, the drug is most effective for younger people who are noticing the first signs of balding, so these tend to be the best candidates for Minoxidil.

With that said, Minoxidil has occasionally shown results for patients outside of this particular group, and considering the low-risk factor of the drug, it is worth trying if you meet the requirements to be a good candidate.

While many people choose to purchase Minoxidil in stores or online, it is always recommended that people suffering from hair loss connect with a medical professional before using it.

A hair restoration expert will give you a thorough explanation of your hair loss and allow you to make more intelligent, informed decisions about the best way to handle it. Only a licensed physician can give you the best insight on hair loss and provide you with the best-recommended game plan.

If you are interested in seeing hundreds of detailed Minoxidil case studies and learning more about this medication in general, be sure to check out our blog, the Daily Journal of Hair Loss Information. Also, sign up for our email newsletter if you want to receive updates about our clinic and the many hair restoration services we offer!

 

Sources:

https://www.healthline.com/health/does-rogaine-work 

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6691938/ 

https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/minoxidil-topical-route/description/drg-20068750 

https://goodhairtransplant.com/what-is-minoxidil-the-usage-of-minoxidil-after-hair-transplant-surgery-the-advantages-and-side-effects-of-minoxidil/ 

What is Scalp MicroPigmentation: A Complete Guide

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Among the many recent innovations in hair restoration, Scalp MicroPigmentation (SMP) has been met with a lot of enthusiasm from doctors and patients alike.

SMP can be an effective and affordable solution for many different hair loss scenarios and is a far less serious procedure than traditional transplants.

In this complete guide to SMP, we’ll explain precisely what the procedure entails, who will most benefit from it, and what clients can expect throughout the entire process.

If you’ve only heard about SMP but still want to know all the facts, you’re in the right place.

 

Is SMP right for you?

While SMP is a popular and effective procedure, it is definitely for more of a niche crowd.

We’ll get into the details later on, but in short, SMP can be summarized as a subtle cosmetic pigmentation that replicates the look of very short cropped hair on the scalp.

This superficial covering can be targeted to anywhere on the scalp, and while similar to tattooing, each tiny dot of pigmentation does not go as deep into the skin as tattoos do.

With that working definition, we can determine who might benefit most from SMP.

First of all, men who rock the very short buzz-cut look tend to be the main demographic that seeks out this procedure. Think tough-guy actors like Vin Diesel, Jason Statham or Jamie Foxx. 

While they don’t need long locks to look great, their male pattern baldness holds them back from that total coverage on the scalp. SMP is the perfect remedy for that. 

SMP tends to be an aesthetic fix for conditions such as androgenetic alopecia, the most common cause of male balding, but it can also be a saving grace for folks suffering from more complex conditions like alopecia areata or other autoimmune issues.

When people with these disorders experience an attack or flare-up, patches of hair can fall out at random, and in a very short timeframe. These diseases are not well understood, but SMP can help these individuals fight back by adding coverage over problem areas.

Can women enjoy the benefits of SMP? It’s rare that they will seek this treatment for the same reasons as men, since most women do not go with the sleek shaved-head look.

Instead, women can use SMP to cover some of the areas of the scalp where thinning is taking place, particularly around the middle parting of the hair.

Since thinning is more of a common issue for women than men, this is how they tend to take advantage of procedures like SMP. With that said, it’s far more common for men, particularly in the 35-55 age group to seek SMP treatment.

The final category of candidates for SMP is the group of men who have scarring from previous restoration treatments such as Follicular Unit Transplant. 

Since this method requires a strip of healthy hair to be harvested from the back of the head and graft individual follicles to the front recipient area, scarring is somewhat common.

Although the scars can be hidden by longer hairstyles, some men want to maintain the close-shaved look along the back of the neck, and SMP allows them to do so.

 

What to Look For in a Doctor

If you think SMP is right for you, definitely do your homework on clinics and surgeons before putting down cash and getting it done.

Since SMP is still a relatively new method, there are many practitioners out there who offer shoddy treatment due to inexperience and lack of training.

Credibility is key when looking for an SMP provider. Avoid amateur tattooers who claim they can give you an SMP treatment like the professionals. They are not to be trusted!

Keep the following criteria in mind when looking for a doctor to perform SMP:

  • A proven track record of clientele and plenty of testimonials from actual people. Check out before and after photos to make sure they are the real deal.
  • Be skeptical when doctors claim that they have only just begun their SMP practices, since some might not be licensed physicians at all.
  • Vet the location from top to bottom and make sure it goes above and beyond health and sterility regulations. Pop-up shops and traveling “artists” should be avoided.
  • Don’t get work done from a doctor who only does SMP as a “package deal” with other restoration procedures. SMP should stand alone as its own thing.

Remember, SMP is more than just a tattoo. It is a medical procedure that needs to be handled with extreme care and caution.

When you do sit down to consult with a doctor face to face, make sure you ask them about any of the key questions we highlighted above.

Furthermore, a good SMP doctor should be very open and honest when laying out expectations about the procedure. They will not make any crazy promises or guarantees. Instead, they will clearly paint a picture of what kinds of results they can offer, and map out how your procedure will work with specific numbers and dimensions.

Great SMP providers are able to determine where the optimal hairline is, so the SMP looks as natural as possible and works to replicate the organic look that we desire.

Less-qualified technicians may overdo the amount of pigmentation on the scalp, making the new coverage appear to be a different color from the original hair. Alternatively, mistakes can be made with the shape and breadth of the pigmentation, causing a very unnatural look that can be difficult to reverse.

Take your time when seeking out an SMP specialist, and do as much research on the surgeons as possible. It is worth putting in the groundwork to get the best service available.

During the consultation, also be sure to gather plenty of information on the procedure itself, since each surgeon may take a slightly different approach or use unique instruments. 

You will want to walk out of the meeting knowing exactly how the surgery will work, how much coverage you’ll receive, how long you’ll spend at the clinic on the day of the procedure, and what the recovery time will be like for your particular case.

Also, have a clear price structure to pay for your surgery, so you can plan accordingly and not put yourself in any unnecessary hot water. Most clients can expect to pay anywhere between $1,500 to $4,000 for SMP treatment, depending on the experience level of the surgeon and the extent of the coverage required.

Keep in mind that because this is strictly a cosmetic procedure, it is unlikely to be covered by most insurance, although payment plans can sometimes be arranged with the clinic.

 

Typical Steps of an SMP Procedure

If you are feeling 100% confident in your clinic of choice and are ready to pull the trigger on SMP, you’ve already done most of the work!

Now that you’ve made the commitment, you should know some more technical details and what to expect on the day(s) of the surgery.

Upon entering the operating room, the surgeon will brief you once more on the methods used for the surgery. There may be an assistant or two in the room as well.

When everyone is ready for action, the surgeon will administer a mild local anesthetic to the target area, causing some numbness to minimize discomfort.

The instrument used in this procedure is similar in function to a tattoo gun, but rather different in form. It is far more precise, quiet, and technical.

Doctors will select a pigmentation that matches your hair color, and will replicate the texture of very short-cropped hair for maximum depth and definition.

From there, the surgeon will administer tiny “dots” of pigmentation to the subdermal layer of the scalp, going one at a time.

Despite what you may believe, not every dot is the same shape and size. Doctors generally utilize the classic artistic style of pointillism to make your hair look as natural as possible from every angle.

Few clients complain about discomfort during SMP. With mild anesthetics in effect, you will likely feel nothing but a tiny bit of pressure across the head as the surgeon goes about his or her work.

You will be in a position where you can comfortably read, watch TV or listen to music, helping time fly by and ensuring you stay calm throughout the process.

Since this is a delicate process, you’ll have to be extremely still from beginning to end, so it’s perfectly fine to request a break or two if you need to get up and move around.

Surgeons also occasionally need to take a few minutes now and then to step away from the operating room to help them stay focused.

The typical SMP session should only take a few hours, and you should be totally fine to drive home that day, granted you haven’t taken any extra sedative medications.

This will be the drill for however many SMP sessions you have scheduled, but in the meantime, your sole focus will be to chill out and recover the right way!

 

SMP Recovery and Aftercare

If you’ve ever undergone surgery before, you’ll know the strict set of rules given to you by the doctor for optimal post-op care.

SMP may not be the most serious or invasive operation in the world, but you need to stick to the recovery game plan nevertheless, since ignoring them could be very problematic in the success of your surgery. 

Since you will likely have three or four separate treatment sessions, it’s important to avoid all prohibited activity in those time frames.

With that in mind, here are a few of the core principles of SMP recovery in between treatments:

  • No swimming, steam rooms or saunas.
  • No super-hot showers. Minimize the amount of time cleaning the scalp.
  • No sun exposure for the first four days after a treatment.
  • Avoid tight-fitting hats and headwraps following a session.
  • Avoid heavy lifting and only do lightweight exercise.
  • Try to keep the head in an upright position and limit scratching itches.

As you go in for more sessions, you should start to become more comfortable with the process and should have no problem adhering to the guidelines. From that point on, it’s just rinse and repeat, until your final session.

Aftercare following the final session is not much different. Be sure to keep out of the sun, saunas, and steam rooms for about a month, and wait at least a week before you lift heavy weights in the gym or on the job.

Moisturizing is your friend in the final recovery phase, since dry skin on the scalp can accelerate the rate at which the pigmentation fades. 

Your doctor may have specific recommendations for products or tactics that will help you make the most out of your treatment, but be sure to ask any care questions at the final debrief.

A few months after your procedure is finalized, you will return to the clinic for a followup meeting to make sure that everything has gone according to plan. Take this opportunity to voice any additional concerns or questions about your coverage, and stick to further instruction from the doctor.

You will want to keep a close eye out for anything unusual about your pigmentation in the months and years to come.

If you choose a quality clinic and trusted surgeon, you should have no trouble, but there is always the chance of allergic reaction or injury that may need to be addressed. Some folks have an adverse reaction to the micro-trauma of the tattoo process, or their bodies reject the ink in their skin for whatever reason.

It’s important to contact your clinic immediately if you feel any ongoing inflammation or discomfort during the recovery process, since this may indicate some slight poisoning or allergic reaction.

If this happens, do not hesitate to talk to your doctor to change course. You do not want to continue treatment if it means putting your overall health in danger.

But, if everything works out (which it usually does!), you should have a clean and easy recovery period and get back to normal life without delay.

 

Long Term Strategies

As far as hair restoration treatment goes, SMP has a great track record.

According to a 2014 study, 42 out of 43 clients surveyed after SMP were highly satisfied with the results of the procedure, after struggling with hair loss and scars. That is nearly a 98% satisfaction rate, which is impressive for any elective treatment.

Still, clients should recognize that fading to the pigmentation may occur between 3 and 7 years following the procedure, and surgeons should lay out a game plan to address this upfront. It is possible to “touch up” the coverage with additional procedures, and this is actually an expected part of the long-term care regimen for SMP.

Speaking of care, clients should take extra caution when exposing micropigmentation to ultraviolet rays, so excessive suntanning may need to be taken off the agenda. If you do decide to show off your sleek scalp at the beach or pool, just be sure that it is completely protected by SPF 30-50 sunscreen, and you avoid burns at all costs.

We should mention that SMP removal is always a possibility as well, and clients sometimes decide to make minor tweaks to their hairline using this approach.

Other patients have decided to remove their pigmentation and opt for a complete transplant in the style of FUE or FUT. 

The removal process is not comfortable or cheap, but it is far more effective than traditional tattoo lasering since SMP markings are not placed as deeply in the skin.

With so much flexibility and customization available, it’s clear why SMP is such a popular and satisfactory procedure for many people today.

 

Conclusion

The hair restoration industry is definitely entering a golden age for Scalp MicroPigmentation treatments, and practitioners are becoming better at the process year over year.

Just remember not to give in to the temptation for cheap, quick SMP service. Like a tattoo, this is a permanent fixture and needs to be given the same level of consideration. As more SMP services begin to appear in Google search and on social media, keep in mind the criteria for service we laid out earlier and stick to the best in the business.

With all that said, you should be thrilled with the results of SMP if you connect with the right professionals and follow the rules of recovery to a point.

Enjoy that bold, full-coverage look and experience a whole new level of confidence!

If you are curious about advancements in SMP or general info about the hair restoration industry, be sure to follow our famous Balding Blog online and be a part of our email newsletter.

 

Sources:

https://www.chronicinktattoo.com/blog/mens-scalp-micropigmentation/ 

https://www.healthline.com/health/beauty-skin-care/scalp-micropigmentation 

https://hairverse.com/scalp-micropigmentation/ 

 

The Truth on Why There is No Cure for Baldness

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Society’s brightest scientific minds have sought a cure for baldness for centuries. From ancient scholars to Medieval alchemists to the billion-dollar laboratories of today, efforts to restore hair loss have been a consistent thread of medical history.

Sure, we’ve made substantive progress on this front, but why hasn’t there yet been a definitive cure for baldness from the medical community?

Today we’re going to look into this puzzling question, offer some insights on the best modern methods for hair restoration, and get a glimpse into the future of the field.

 

Cures vs. Treatments

Right off the bat, let’s distinguish cures from treatments.

Cures eliminate conditions entirely, and in many cases, ensure that it cannot return.

Treatments, on the other hand, are meant to help manage the symptoms of something. While all cures are treatments, not all treatments are cures.

Here are a few of the ways hair loss can be treated:

  • Reduce the rate at which hair falls out, or how quickly hairlines recede.
  • Slow down hair thinning and potentially bring back some thickness.
  • Limit the inflammation on the scalp to prevent scratching and shedding.
  • Stimulate blood flow on the problem area to promote follicle growth.
  • Block DHT hormones that are said to accelerate hair loss.

So while there are countless methods to treat hair loss, a cure is still out of the picture for now.

While scientists are inching closer, there are still a lot of mysteries surrounding the reason why androgenetic baldness occurs.

We know that factors such as DHT, a male hormone that stunts the hair growth cycle, is a key piece of the puzzle, and that blood flow to the scalp also plays a role.

Where researchers are still unsure how the “internal clock” of the hair follicles function, they have narrowed things down to a small subset of organic mechanisms in the area.

As more information on this subject is revealed, the closer we’ll get to understanding how hair cycles really work and how we can use them for our own purposes.

 

How Hair Loss is Diagnosed

With all this talk about cures and treatments, one might be led to believe hair loss is a disease.

The truth is that most hair loss cases are not the result of an underlying disease, but a hereditary condition called androgenetic alopecia.

Since it affects around 85 percent of the male population over the age of 50 and does not have any impact on the overall health of the patient, it isn’t considered a dangerous disease. Of course, losing your hair isn’t a desirable position to be in, so doctors and patients take it seriously and approach it like any other serious condition.

As we mentioned, androgenetic hair loss is a very complex and layered issue, but there are other diagnoses that point to other underlying problems.

Alopecia areata is an autoimmune disorder that results in small, oddly-shaped patches of hair failing unpredictably from the scalp. While no cure for this disease exists either, there are treatments specific to the condition that can help with some of the loss by helping the body to boost immunity.

Medications such as Minoxidil or Finasteride should not be used to treat any other causes of balding other than androgenetic.

Other environmental and lifestyle factors can definitely contribute to hair loss, and it’s important that patients try to make as many positive changes to their health as possible before seeking more serious medical or surgical methods.

 

Seek Help From the Pros

If you find yourself noticing early signs of hair loss, it’s important that you take action as soon as possible, since treatments are most effective at this first stage.

Folks who seek immediate recourse for hair loss can see the best results, since the preferred medications are meant to restore those first few lost follicles.

A qualified hair restoration specialist can give you a full examination to determine the cause of your hair loss, offer medical advice, and design a personalized strategy moving forward.

Many of the new online hair loss services essentially allow people to self-diagnose and easily access medications such as Finasteride.

While there aren’t major side effects to products like this, the internet age has the potential downside of overlooking key aspects of the hair loss diagnosis.

It’s always preferred to have even a virtual consultation with a physician and get the facts face to face, rather than doing it all online.

 

What the Future Holds

It’s the question everyone’s been asking: how close are we to a real cure?

We all want that magic pill that reverses all the damage done and returns us to that youthful hairline we’ve been missing for years.

While that magic may still be a ways off, there are signs of hope right now.

According to science journalists at Labiotech, two European companies have made some impressive strides with new topical medications.

Follicum is a Swedish company that jumped on a study from Lund University, which found hair regrowth properties of a variant of the protein osteopontin.

This molecule occurs naturally in our bodies and showed promising results on lab mice. By targeting a specific function of hair follicle cells, scientists found that this protein caused the hair cycles to shift gears from resting to growth phases.

Originally tested in an injectable form, the company is looking to create a more convenient creamlike product for topical use.

Another biotech from Italy called Cassiopeia is working on a topical product that aims to block the negative effects of DHT, similar to the action seen in Finasteride. The product, known for now as Breezula, has had several successful trials thus far, and investors are already keen on big sales numbers when it hits markets soon.

Labiotech also pointed out that many new products are being developed specifically for women, who cannot safely take products that impact DHT due to the hormonal consequences.

Additionally, University of Texas researchers have made progress on the KROX20 protein, which has been shown to produce stem cell factor proteins and potentially lead to hair growth.

Studies from the University of Edinburgh are looking at hair loss from a genetic angle, and researchers have already discovered 287 genetic regions related to baldness.

It may be slow going, but the progress made in this field is all good news for folks who want a new approach to hair restoration. 

 

Conclusion

While scientists on the cutting edge of hair restoration technology are making strides daily, improving proven formulas and refining regimens, no cure exists for androgenetic baldness, and the other conditions that cause hair loss are also difficult to treat comprehensively. 

Procedures such as Follicular Unit Excision have made leaps and bounds in the meantime, and doctors are highly confident in their abilities to graft hair artistically and accurately.

It is tough to accept at first that there is not yet a certain cure for baldness, but with the right resources and a commitment to the process, patients can make a lot of forward progress.

If you want to stay in the know about the latest developments in the hair loss industry and see where science is headed next, be sure to tune in to our Balding Blog and sign up for our email newsletter as well.

Sources:

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hair-loss/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20372932 

https://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/hair-loss/features/sweet-hair-after#1 

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/317788 

https://www.labiotech.eu/medical/hair-loss-drugs-innovation/#:~:text=There%20is%20a%20scarcity%20of,only%20treatment%20available%20to%20women. 

 

FUE Hair Transplant: A Complete Guide

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Hair transplant techniques have improved massively in recent years, with patients reporting greater satisfaction with their experiences than ever before.

One of the most impressive developments in the field is Follicular Unit Excision, or FUE.

Hair restoration specialists claim it as one of the least invasive and most effective methods of transplant thus far, and clients around the world are lining up for consultations.

With so many people curious about the details of FUE, we’re here to walk you through the entire process, from seeking consult to the procedure itself and beyond.

We hope to answer all the major questions and address the common concerns that surround FUE, and give you the key information you need to make the best choice!

 

What is FUE?

While “hair transplant” is a broad term for the grafting of follicle units onto the scalp, the harvesting process varies from one technique to the next.

You may be familiar with Follicular Unit Strip Surgery or Follicular Unit Transplant (FUT), in which a horizontal strip of hair is removed from the donor area (typically the back of the neck) prior to grafting them to the front.

FUE does things differently. Instead of strip harvesting, surgeons selectively harvest individual units of hair from the donor area and insert them into the recipient area.

 

FUE has a few key advantages for the client:

  • Far less scarring on the donor area. 
  • No horizontal mark on the back of the neck.
  • Less discomfort and pain during the recovery process.
  • Faster healing time and quicker return to normal living.
  • Higher overall patient satisfaction rate.

 

Although FUE is not a brand new practice, it is more of a recent development than FUT, so it may be trickier to find a clinic that specializes in the procedure.

Since it is a highly technical surgery, you will want to do a very thorough vetting process to be sure the surgeon is qualified for FUE.

Put in the legwork to look up real reviews, speak with people you know, and study before and after galleries to make sure your clinic and surgeon are up to par for this procedure.

 

Who is FUE suited for?

The best candidates for any hair transplant will show typical patterns of androgenetic alopecia, usually with an M-shaped receding hairline and thinning on the top rear area of the head.

Since FUE surgeons are highly skilled at harvesting donor hair from other areas of the scalp, it is not that important that a client has consistent hair growth on the back of the neck. Many FUE experts can extract quality donor hair from the side of the head, as well as other parts of the body if necessary.

As mentioned, FUE is primarily meant for clients who want to wear their hair short in the back and do not want to show a horizontal scar from the donor area.

This is a more discrete operation that heals more easily and evenly than traditional strip harvesting. The best doctors in the world leave barely any trace of activity on the neck.

There are a few downsides to FUE, however, that should be noted.

Firstly, FUE is a more expensive treatment than standard strip harvest procedures. Clients can expect to pay at least a few thousand dollars more for this top service.

FUE procedures are also thought to have a slightly higher transection rate than other techniques. This means that follicles are more likely to be accidentally damaged during the harvesting process, resulting in an ineffective graft on the recipient area.

Transection in FUE is more common due to the process of targeted follicle harvesting, and the precise technique required to extract each individual hair safely.

While the best surgeons in the world have transection rates below 5%, it’s still a drawback for some clients who want to absolutely maximize their grafting results, even if it means more scarring in the donor area. This is the main tradeoff you must consider.

Clients must also account for the slightly shorter lifespan of hair grafts extracted via FUE. While the difference from FUT is not major, it is true that FUE grafts do not last quite as long as those taken from strip harvesting.

This could mean that an FUE patient may have to return to the clinic at some point down the line to undergo repeat surgeries, which some clients are not willing to do.

The use of medication such as Finasteride and Minoxidil has been proven to help extend the life of FUE grafts, so this type of treatment should be discussed in the consultation.

 

Detailing the Process

The FUE surgery process can take anywhere from 4 to 8 hours, depending on the number of follicle units to be transplanted. 

The back of the neck is shaved, allowing the surgeon easy access to the root of the follicle unit. Each hair is carefully extracted and placed into a tiny incision in the front of the head.

Again, while the extraction method is unique from FUE and FUT, the grafting method is exactly the same.

Patients only need a minor local anesthetic to withstand the discomfort of FUE, and the process is not strenuous by any means.

The world’s best clinics will create a calming, low-pressure environment for the patient to feel comfortable, and allow for occasional breaks throughout the surgery to regroup.

Granted the patient is feeling alert and aware, they can typically drive themselves home that same day to transition to the recovery process.

 

A Smooth Recovery from FUE

Recovery from FUE is considered easier than other hair transplant techniques due to the absence of the horizontal scar on the donor area.

FUE patients will find that the discomfort in the donor area disappears in less than a few days, and they don’t have to concern themselves with as much scar aftercare.

In the recipient area, the healing process is nearly identical to that of FUT.

Patients are advised to take a few days off from work to let the body heal naturally, and it’s recommended that they avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activity for a few weeks after.

While the donor area is less of an issue, FUE patients should be particularly careful about protecting their newly grafted hair as it settled into the recipient area.

The follicles are smaller and more sensitive than those harvested with strip methods, and should be treated with extra sensitivity. Doctors may advise FUE clients on specific bathing routines or other techniques to avoid disrupting the healing process. 

As inflammation and scabbing subside, the grafted hair may fall out before growing back once again. This is a totally normal step and nothing to fear.

Within a few months, the patient will return for a followup meeting with the surgeon to ensure that the procedure and recovery went according to plan. From there they can discuss future plans and preventive measures to keep the hair healthy and strong for years to come.

 

Conclusion

While FUE is by no means a minor procedure, many clients find it to be far more manageable than they anticipate. 

With the guidance and support of reputable clinic staff and highly qualified doctors, you can breeze through the process and enjoy transformative results with minimal discomfort and disruption to your life.

To stay in the know about the latest trends in FUE and hair restoration in general, make sure to bookmark our blog and sign up for our useful email newsletter.

Sources:

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/327229 

https://www.healthline.com/health/does-hair-transplant-work#:~:text=Follicular%20unit%20extraction%20(FUE)&text=They%20shave%20off%20hair%20on,hair%20follicles%20into%20the%20holes. 

https://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/hair-loss/men-hair-loss-17/hair-transplants 

 

Hair Growth Oil: Does it Really Work?

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Folks who struggle with hair loss have heard it all. 

They’ve tried the supplements, the health tonics, the acupuncture, and nearly every other natural method under the sun to bring back hair.

But hair oil is one of those things that often go overlooked, and in a battle against hair loss, every little advantage counts. 

Today we’re looking at which hair growth oils make the most positive impact on the health of your hair, and how you can see tangible results if you pick the right ones.

 

Light Essential Oils

In decades past, you had to drive across town and navigate the aisles of an oddball health shop to find essential oils, but times have certainly changed. Now, these products are everywhere and are made affordable for everyone to enjoy.

The question is, do oils really do what they say on the bottle and help you grow back hair?

Let’s just start off by saying we’ve seen mixed results.

Essential oils have a basic definition: oils that are extracted from plants through the methods of distillation or evaporation.

We’re talking about lemongrass, thyme, peppermint, and any other naturally occurring plant species you can think of.

To administer these products to the scalp, you simply mix a few drops in with carrier oil like coconut or olive oil to give it some extra substance and reduce how potent the essential oil extracts are, then you gently massage the scalp with the mixture. Just a few times a week and you can see results.

What kind of results, you may ask?

At the top of our list is tea tree oil, which you may be familiar with if you’ve struggled with dandruff or scalp irritation in the past.

Instead of buying pricey shampoos with trace amounts of tea tree oil, we suggest picking up a bottle of the real, unadulterated thing.

It will last you much longer, cost you way less, and give you a better chance at seeing real results. Plus, you get that amazing tingly sensation that feels so clean and nice.

Our next favorite is lavender oil, which showed impressive hair growth results when tested on lab mice. Its hygiene-boosting properties are great to use after a tough workout or day on the job when you need some extra punch to clean up the scalp.

Finally, we recommend you pick up a bottle of peppermint oil, which is just as soothing and refreshing as it sounds. 

When tested on mice, this stuff boosted the growth phase of the follicle cells, mimicking products like Minoxidil, and producing a similar effect for fighting hair loss.

The beauty of these natural products is that you create a unique regimen that delivers real results over time. It just takes some patience and some trial and error. 

There is one pretty major caveat to using hair growth oils that you should note: allergic reactions are a real possibility, and it’s important to watch out for anything unusual. Rashes, acne, and irritation can happen if your body rejects these oils, and it’s important that you identify early on which products are not for you.

Luckily, these are not toxic substances by any means, and the risks are ultimately very low. Always try these oils one at a time to see if you react well, then add them to the mix.

 

Heavier Solutions

If you’ve tried all the oils and tinctures from the health food store and still aren’t seeing the results you want, it may be time to turn things up a notch.

Hair growth shampoos, conditioners, and other over-the-counter products pack more of a punch, without forcing you to get a prescription from the doctor.

One product we’ve seen clients have success with is zinc shampoo. Shampoo with the specific element Zinc PCA has been very helpful in fighting dandruff and promoting overall scalp health.

Dandruff is definitely an enemy when it comes to maintaining a healthy head of hair since it causes us to scratch to no end. 

Zinc is an essential mineral that helps nearly every aspect of our physical health, supporting metabolism, bone strength, and our immune systems. It makes sense that it would contribute to a healthy and flake-free scalp, and so supplementing with a zinc shampoo can be a great way to fight balding.

The best part is that there are countless products on the market that don’t require a doctor’s prescription. You are free to try them all and see what works.

Just be aware that zinc shampoo is generally going to function as a preventative measure, rather than something that can reverse the effects of balding.

If you are in a position where you still have most of your hair but anticipate a drop off at some point soon, this is going to be a must-buy product to keep in the shower. 

 

Doctor-Recommended Treatments

As hair restoration experts, we know that while store-bought solutions can help, they aren’t going to make a dramatic impact on balding in the long run.

This is doubly true for individuals who have already experienced a large amount of hair loss in the front and back of the scalp, and who are generally past middle age.

If you find yourself in this situation, more serious options can do the trick.

One of the most widely-prescribed drugs in the hair loss industry is called Finasteride, an oral tablet containing powerful DHT blocking ingredients. Not only does Finasteride help slow the impact of androgenetic balding, but it has also been shown in several clinical trials to help promote growth in follicles thought to be no longer functioning.

Let’s be clear: this is not a magic pill. But millions of men swear by Finasteride to deliver results year after year.

Luckily, it’s more available and affordable than ever before. Just consult with your doctor before starting on any medication like this.

 

Consider a Permanent Change

We definitely won’t stop you from trying oils, shampoos and lifestyle changes to help fight hair loss–in fact, we’ll often recommend trying that first. 

But as men become older, these natural solutions just don’t pack as much of a punch.

It’s no wonder why surgical measures such as Follicular Unit Excision have reached new levels of popularity over the past few years, with people across the globe loving their results.

Technologies have improved, surgical best practices have been established, and the recovery phases from these surgeries are relatively easy.

By all means, use all the natural oils you want to try and help make some small improvements in the short term, but if you think it’s time to make a real, substantive overhaul to your hair, definitely look into a type of transplant surgery.

Just make sure you connect with a clinic with a proven track record of success and plenty of solid testimonials that reflect a top-tier level of work.

 

Conclusion

When it comes to hair restoration, the presiding philosophy across the industry is pretty simple: if it works, it works!

Never once should a medical expert steer you away from taking advantage of what nature has to offer, especially if it makes you feel good and has no real negative impacts.

But to be 100% honest, the vast majority of the hair growth oils you find online and at the health shop is not going to do much in terms of bringing your hair back once it’s lost.

If you’re ready to take your hair restoration strategy to the next level, consider linking up with an industry professional and see how you can finally make some big strides.

Sources:

https://www.healthline.com/health/essential-oils-for-hair-growth

https://www.forhims.com/blog/hair-growth-products-are-they-effective#:~:text=One%20study%20from%202015%20found,products%20like%20finasteride%20and%20minoxidil%3F

https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-3503/minoxidil-topical/details#:~:text=Minoxidil%20solution%20and%20foam%20are,in%20women%20with%20thinning%20hair. 

 

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