Hair experts around the world say that the best way to prevent or reverse balding is to catch it early and act immediately.

Men and women need to know exactly what early signs of balding to look for so that they can tackle the problem swiftly and minimize losses.

In this article, we’re identifying the most common first signs of hair loss, so that you can be better prepared to take action if you see them yourself.

 

Most Common Signs of Hair Loss

You don’t need a doctorate to notice hair loss, but there are some common patterns to look for. 

To assess balding in men, medical professionals use the Hamilton-Norwood classification scale, which was designed in the mid-20th century to measure the stages of male pattern baldness. The scale climbs from 1 to 7 and reflects the most common patterns of hair loss in men.

A receding hairline is usually the first thing that men notice since they look in the mirror every day. Hair can begin to thin and move back toward the top of the head, called the vertex.

While hairlines can sometimes recede evenly across the forehead, men more commonly see an M-shape form as the hair on either side of the head inches back.

 

Here are some signs to look out for: 

• Thinning usually happens before receding.
• Beware of more hair coming loose in the shower.
• Look for hairs left behind in hats, on couches and pillows. We lose 100 hairs a day on average, but excessive shedding is grounds for concern.
• Take note of itching or agitation in these areas.
• Watch for hair loss around the temples as well as the forehead.

 

Men should know the difference between a mature hairline and a receding one, so they do not run the risk of misdiagnosis.

If there is only about one finger-width of space between the top wrinkle on your forehead and your hair, this is just a healthy mature hairline and no cause for alarm.

 A mature hairline is the norm for over 95 percent of men and is simply an indicator that the process of puberty is complete. Even with a mature hairline, most men’s hairstyles are possible, and it is not worth taking medication like Minoxidil or Finasteride to try to reverse this minimal loss.

The next most common sign of balding is on the top of the head, usually slightly behind the vertex. This is the dreaded “bald spot” that can be easy to miss at first. At first you’ll need to go by feel to determine if a bald spot is forming, and you can tell if there is more space between hairs than before. 

Don’t hesitate to snap a few photos from the top to get a full view.

Reviewing the Norwood scale yourself is a good way to determine the severity of your own hair loss, but keep in mind that no two cases are exactly alike. 

For women, we suggest you reference the Ludwig scale classification method.

Though not as expansive as the Norwood, it reflects the fact that women tend to experience a more uniform type of hair loss, signaled by the widening of the part in their hair.

Thinning is most common along this area, and can expand outward if not addressed quickly. Even slight thinning of the hair is considered pretty normal for women over the age of 50. 

 

Less Common Signs of Hair Loss

The androgenic alopecia patterns discussed above will be your best guidance in evaluating the state of your own hair loss, but there are other signals to be conscious of as well.

Small circular patches of quick hair loss can result from alopecia areata, an autoimmune disease that has no established cure.

Thyroid conditions can also lead to hair loss, and even slight disruptions to the endocrine system must be considered as a cause.

Fungal infections of the scalp, known as Tinea Capitis have been known to cause scarring and hair loss, although certain medications can fight it.

These do not represent the majority of hair loss cases by any means, but it’s important to be aware of all possible causes. 

 

What can I do about hair loss?

Simply looking in the mirror every day and trying to guess whether or not you’re balding is not a recipe for effective diagnosis, and will likely put you at risk for missing key signs.

If you believe you’re at risk for pattern baldness due to genetic or environmental reasons, you may want to photograph yourself every month to keep a close eye on things.

This means taking photos from every angle and comparing them diligently. Pics from the front, back, top, and on either side are necessary for a complete assessment. These can be helpful for your own purposes and to reference during a consultation with medical professionals in the future. Just be sure to never miss a photo session, because a lot can happen in a month.

Ask family members and loved ones if they can give you an honest assessment of your hair, even if you may not like the answer. It’s for the best to know the truth ASAP!

 

When should I seek a consult?

Should you rush to the doctor as soon as you see the very first signs of hair loss?

There’s nothing stopping you, but first consider the number of things you can do on your own to potentially slow or even stop the pattern baldness taking place.

First off, try some simple lifestyle changes that we often recommend to our clients, regardless of their hair loss situation.

Improving diet is key, specifically boosting the intake of protein and healthy fats while reducing processed carbohydrates and simple sugars.

Cutting down on smoking and drinking alcohol has also been shown to slow hair loss.

Exercise is great no matter what your situation, but can also increase blood flow to the scalp and stimulate follicles.

If you clean up your habits and commit to healthy living but still notice ongoing thinning and receding, certain medicines may be your next option, and are relatively cheap.

The three most widely used hair loss products on the market are Minoxidil, Finasteride, and fortifying shampoos.

Minoxidil is better known as Rogaine and contains compounds aimed at boosting blood flow in the scalp in order to increase the speed and quality of follicle growth.

Finasteride, while not available over the counter, is an effective oral medication meant to block DHT, which is cited as the main perpetrator of male pattern baldness.

Finally, hair loss shampoos containing biotin, caffeine, and saw palmetto may yield results, but there are few clinical trials proving the effectiveness of these all natural options.

A qualified hair restoration specialist will help map out a legitimate strategy involving medication, natural supplementation, and perhaps restorative procedures that can help you on your journey.

 

Conclusion

For millions of people every year, hair loss presents a new and difficult challenge.

By knowing what signs to look for, how to respond, and when to see a doctor, you can effectively combat some of the more common causes of balding.

While some factors may still lie outside your control, you have more power over hair loss than you may think!

If you want to read the latest updates from hair restoration experts or want to search a specific subtopic, make sure to check out our famous Daily Journal of Hair Loss Information and browse thousands of posts from the pros.

Sources:

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hair-loss/symptoms-causes/syc-20372926

https://www.healthline.com/health/beauty-skin-care/signs-of-balding 

https://www.toolsofmen.com/early-signs-of-balding/ 

 

Hair loss is a fact of life for more than half of all men, and the older men and women become, the more likely they are to experience some degree of thinning or balding. Given that so many people have to deal with this condition, it’s clear why hair transplant surgery is more popular than ever.

We’ve made big strides in the hair restoration industry in recent years. Surgeons are better, prices are lower, and clients around the world are highly satisfied with their results.

Whether you’ve only just begun to consider transplant as an option, or you’ve had your mind set on the surgery for years, there is still probably some information you need to know.

In this article, we’re giving you an in-depth breakdown of the whole hair transplant process, from research to consultation, surgery to recovery, and everything down the line. We’ll explore whether a hair transplant is really a permanent solution, and what other options you have to ensure you keep that hairline exactly how you want.

No more waiting – let’s get into this definitive hair transplant guide.

 

Are you a good candidate?

Before you jump in your car and get going to the clinic, you need to do a bit of groundwork to determine if you are a good candidate for a hair transplant in the first place.

First off, try to figure out the type of hair loss you are experiencing.

Hair transplants are most effective for individuals suffering from the condition known as androgenetic alopecia, which is linked to genetic heritage. This is the classic “pattern balding” common in more than half the adult male population and signified by an M-shaped hairline and loss of hair in the back of the vertex.

Sometimes, other medical conditions are the cause of hair loss, and genetics play less of a role. Alopecia areata is one autoimmune disorder that can lead to rapid, unpredictable hair loss, and transplants are deemed ineffective for these patients.

Other thyroid and hormonal problems can be why hair loss happens rapidly, and lifestyle factors like health and stress also play a role.

It’s very important that before you seek medical treatment, you do everything in your control to maximize your personal wellness and give your hair the best chance to grow naturally.

For women, it’s rare to see the same type of receding hairline and patchiness, but the chances of thinning are higher. With that said, hair transplants are not the most popular solution for women, who instead opt for procedures like forehead reduction through hairline lowering.

There is also the rare chance that hair loss results from injury or unknown conditions that need to be considered on a case-by-case basis.

But if androgenetic alopecia is identified as your root cause of hair loss and you’ve done everything to improve your lifestyle, it may be time to look at treatment.

 

Some Proven Alternatives

It’s tempting to seek a surgical solution when balding first starts, but the truth is that a hair transplant should not be the first course of action for hair restoration.

We mentioned some natural options above, but there are other heavy-duty medications that have worked well for men, typically in the early stages of hair loss.

The first is called Finasteride, a once-a-day pill that aims to reduce the action of DHT on hair cycles and reduce the rate of hair loss, sometimes with additional regrowth.

The other is Minoxidil, which is a topical solution meant to stimulate blood flow on the scalp and stimulate follicle growth.

While there are some minor side effects to these medications, they are typically considered safe and effective, especially when taken in immediate response to initial signs of hair loss.

If you do make the decision to seek consultation for a hair transplant, make sure you discuss all the other alternatives before committing to surgery.

 

The Perfect Consultation

Your initial consultation with a hair restoration expert is key to a satisfactory surgical outcome. There’s a reason why people are willing to fly halfway around the world for the best treatment!

When researching for clinics and surgeons, regularly ask these key questions:

• Is the surgeon an MD/board certified?
• Has the doctor published original research in the field of hair restoration science?
• Does the doctor specialize in a particular type of hair transplant surgery?
• Is the doctor a plastic surgeon, dermatologist, or another type of specialist?
• Do you have sufficient evidence that the doctor has performed these procedures with consistent success over time (reviews, testimonials, references)?
• Does the doctor have full time medical technicians or does he use sub-contractors?

You’d be shocked to see how many surgeons don’t live up to these criteria, and you should not be hesitant to weed them out of your selection process.

Hair transplant surgery is a serious and costly procedure, so it is always better to do a thorough vetting process upfront to avoid major consequences later on.

Once you have selected a clinic to work with and you feel confident about your doctor’s capabilities, you will sit down for a face-to-face meeting.

The best doctors in the industry will take their time to ask you questions, examine the state of your hair loss, and use a measured approach to determine if a hair transplant is a right move. Be skeptical of doctors who take one quick glance at you and immediately suggest surgery. This is a red flag and a sign that the surgeon does not have your best interests in mind!

The initial consultation should be a back-and-forth conversation, and you should spend as much time asking questions as the doctor spends answering them.

If you do decide to move forward with the procedure, the doctor should map out your options and make a clear, honest estimation of what you can expect results-wise. Reputable and ethical physicians will not make grand claims about perfect outcomes. A good doctor will paint a picture of what their hair will look like in 5, 10, and 15 years’ time, providing their reasoning for the predictions.

Only if you are satisfied with your consultation, should you move forward in the process.

 

Two Types of Transplants

Given you feel comfortable and confident in your clinic of choice, you will usually be given two main options for the hair transplant procedure itself.

The first is known as Follicular Unit Transplant, or FUT. 

This is the most familiar and common type of hair transplant, and will probably be the one suggested to you by the majority of surgeons.

In this process, a horizontal strip of hair is harvested from the donor area, typically at the back of the head toward the neck.

The follicle units from the donor area are then carefully grafted with tiny incisions into the recipient area targeted by the client and surgeon.

Recipient areas are usually at the front of the scalp along the hairline, filling in the gaps in the M-shaped pattern that defines most hair loss in men.

The advantages of FUT are many:

• The horizontal strip from the donor area is the best hair for grafting.
• Most surgeons are highly proficient in the process.
• Shaving your head is not required.
• Some doctors claim it is a faster procedure than FUE.
• More cost-effective than other surgeries.

This is why FUT is considered standard for most hair restoration clinics around the world, but if you want to avoid the linear scarring at the back of the head, there is another option.

The other major method rising in popularity is Follicular Unit Excision or FUE.

In this approach, the surgeon harvests donor hair from a broader range of surface area at the back of the head, as opposed to the strip-harvest method of FUT.

The result is a drastic decrease in the level of scarring experienced, although some clinics claim that the overall quality of the harvested hair does not match that of the strip method.

Be aware that fewer surgeons in the industry have mastered FUE, so you should be sure they are qualified and experienced in this area before moving forward.

Also, keep in mind that FUE is a slightly more costly procedure than FUT, but for thousands of people each year, the added benefits are worth the price.

 

Surgery Day

Whether you choose FUT or FUE, the patient experience is largely the same.

Your doctor should explain the do’s and don’ts leading up to the day of the procedure.

Common recommendations include limiting salty and sugary foods, avoiding alcohol and tobacco, and filling up on healthy foods that boost immunity and the ability to recover.

Doctors may also suggest you stay away from medications that could interfere in the healing process, such as anti-inflammatory or over-the-counter pain relievers.

Essentially, you want to be in a healthy mind frame and in good physical condition before entering surgery, because it tends to be a lengthy process and can be taxing on the body.

Once all your preparations are complete and you’ve cleared your schedule for post-op recovery, you’ll be ready for the big day.

Upon entering the operating room, the doctor will place some markings around your donor and recipient areas, and familiarize the staff with the surgical plan.

There may be up to three or four people operating on you at a given time, as this will allow them to graft as many as 3000 follicles in a single session.

After you receive a local anesthetic to numb the pain, the surgeon will begin making incisions or extractions, based on the type of procedure you selected.

Most patients do not report major discomfort during the surgery itself. The most common reaction is a feeling of “pulling” on the donor area and a slight prickling feeling on the recipient area. If the pain becomes too harsh, surgeons can always administer more local anesthetic.

The typical procedure takes roughly 4 to 7 hours total, and patients are able to listen to music, watch TV, or just relax and let the time pass.

Surgeons will take breaks every couple of hours or so to let the patient walk and stretch their legs so they can remain comfortable throughout.

When the surgical procedure is complete, the patient will be debriefed by the doctors and given some pointers on how to recover. 

We suggest to our patients to arrange transportation ahead of time so that they can fully regain their composure and feel at ease following the surgery. 

Although we do not administer heavier sedatives to our patients, some of them opt to take anti-anxiety medication, meaning they need to be driven home.

As the surgery concludes, the patient may have some minor throbbing or feeling of pressure in the affected areas. Some pain relief medication is acceptable to use at this stage.

The hard part is over, now it’s time to relax!

 

Recovery Done Right

As we stated earlier, you should have everything you need for recovery ready to go at home before you enter the clinic on the day of the surgery.

That means stocking up on food, medications, shampoos, and any other supplies the doctor recommends to you (headwear, bandages, etc).

In addition, you will have a set of strict rules and looser guidelines directly from the clinic. These points need to be followed closely, even if they seem too restrictive.

 

Your primary goal for the first week of recovery is to allow the body to heal.

 

First things first – no touching, scratching, or poking at the areas, both donor and recipient.

It is crucial that you stay hands-off as long as possible since the newly grafted hair is extremely delicate at this time. We want the skin around the grafts to heal on their own, and become strong new follicles for the future. One wrong scratch or itch and you can lose valuable strands.

You should try to keep your head in an elevated position for this first week of post-op care as well, and if possible, restrict movement in bed to avoid loosening grafts.

No heavy lifting or exercise is permitted in this phase either. Some light sweating is okay, but you’ll want to carefully wash your hair immediately afterward to prevent bacteria buildup.

The general rule here is to keep stress levels low, minimize unnecessary movement, and feed the body with the care and quality food it needs to recover in full

While many workaholics will want to be on their email and phones nonstop, we highly recommend that they take at least a few days off work to focus on aftercare.

Within another week or so (14 days total), you can begin to return to work and daily activities. Your hair may not look perfect yet, but the major incisions should be healed and normal rates of hair growth should be seen in the months to come.

 

Following Up

It’s rare that patients experience any excessive discomfort or have emergency situations during the recovery phase, but it’s critical that they contact the clinic if this does occur.

Unusual levels of bruising, bleeding or oozing should be reported to your team of doctors immediately.

The same goes for any situation in which hair grafts are lost as a result of a mishap or accident. The best clinics will make time for the patient to come in for a quick examination.

Assuming that everything does go to plan in the recovery stage, and the patient manages to keep the large majority of the new hair in place, a normal followup meeting will be required. This is a short visit at the clinic in which the patient and surgeon discuss the overall effectiveness of the procedure, and go over any concerns.

The client is encouraged to voice feedback, questions, and concerns in this meeting, as it gives the doctor a better understanding of how to approach future surgeries.

If everything appears to be normal, the surgeon will provide the client with a revised set of guidelines that will help them navigate the next few months.

Another followup meeting may be scheduled anywhere between 10 – 14 months later to ensure that the transplant is holding up, and if any other changes to the care regimen is needed.

 

Conclusion

It’s no wonder why hair transplants like FUE and FUT are more popular than ever. They are widely available, fairly affordable, and deliver real results that last for years.

If you are on the fence about a hair transplant, it’s worth scheduling a consultation to learn more about how you can specifically benefit from the procedure.

In the meantime, we encourage you to read our renowned Balding Blog, which covers all the big industry trends and keeps you informed on key hair restoration topics.

Sources:

https://www.thetrendspotter.net/hair-transplant-for-men/  

https://www.telegraph.co.uk/health-fitness/body/complete-guide-hair-transplants-alternatives/ 

https://www.menshealth.com/uk/style/grooming/a25734373/hair-transplants/ 

https://www.mcanhealth.com/complete-guide-to-hair-transplant-in-turkey/ 

 

Hair loss is definitely not a new phenomenon. You can look at classical sculptures and Renaissance paintings to see that men have been going bald for millennia, and while civilization has progressed, a hair loss cure is still just out of reach.

Scientists are still trying to figure out the fundamentals of why men lose their hair, and every bit of research brings them closer to a solution.

Today, we’re looking at the many different reasons behind male baldness and highlighting some of the treatments that deliver the best restoration results.

 

The Most Common Cause

If there is one supervillain causing baldness in men, it’s androgenetic alopecia, which is the culprit for nearly 95% of male pattern baldness cases. No other cause comes close.

How does androgenetic alopecia work, and why is it so devastating to the male hairline?

The basics of the condition are pretty simple, but the details are more complex than we can fathom, which is why no real cure for balding exists. It all takes place in the follicle unit of the scalp, where microscopic structures of hair, muscle, and fat are organized in a way that delicately supports each individual hair.

As boys become men and men become older, these follicle units go through their own life cycles, known as hair cycles, and different parts of the scalp seem to have distinct mechanisms that dictate how fast and strong they grow. That’s why the hair on the back of the neck typically stays around longer than at the front of the hairline, and why we choose specific, intentional donor areas for treatments like Follicular Unit Excision.

Androgens, which are derivatives of the male sex hormone testosterone, are thought to be disruptive to the hair cycles of the scalp, especially in those sensitive areas.

DHT is the specific androgen targeted by medications like Finasteride and is considered the main reason why men lose hair. Higher levels of DHT appear to correlate clearly to more rapid and widespread balding in men of all ages.

Without getting too deep into the science, this is the basic reason why the majority of men go bald, and why women and younger men tend not to experience hair loss in the same way. Experts agree that age is one of the main determinants of hair loss severity, with the likelihood of balding increasing by roughly 10% with each passing decade. A man in his 50s has more than a 50% chance of losing his hair, a man in his 60s has a 60% chance, and so on.

Since medical experts agree that early treatment is best for any type of hair loss, men should be ready and able to detect the warning signs of balding and address them immediately when they begin to occur. 

 

Less-Known Conditions

While androgenetic alopecia is definitely the primary hair loss concern for men out there, a number of other rare conditions can result in balding as well.

Other hormone problems related to the thyroid gland can be responsible for hair loss in younger men, as well as autoimmune disorders that attack specific patches of hair throughout the body. One of the most devastating conditions of this kind is known as alopecia areata, and it results in unpredictable hair loss patterns, no matter the age of the patient.

Other factors like hypertension and nutritional deficiency can play a role in hair loss as well, so it’s important that men take a holistic approach to self-care in order to help them extend the lifespan of their hair.

 

Lifestyle and Supplementation

Speaking of lifestyle, let’s talk about some of the doctor-recommended ways that you can ward off early hair loss.

You’ve heard the term “pulling your hair out” over a stressful situation? Well, as it turns out, there’s some scientific truth to the expression!

Too much stress is bad for all the systems of the human body, and the worst type of stress is the chronic, low-level anxiety that many people suffer from today.

An overload of work, money problems, or personal issues can negatively impact the immune system and lead to early hair loss, so try to chill out and avoid taking on more responsibility than you can handle.

One of the best ways to combat stress in a healthy way is to work out!

Hair restoration specialists tend to agree that a good exercise routine is a key to keeping the blood flowing throughout the entire body, including the scalp. Sedentary living is not good for the respiratory and cardiovascular systems either, and keeping these systems healthy are thought to contribute to healthy hair as well.

Think about it –  the nutrients we get from food need to be delivered to every corner of the body, including the hair, so the better functioning our internal delivery systems, the more efficiently vitamins and minerals can be transported to the follicle units of the scalp.

In case you’re wondering about overdoing it on testosterone, try to limit exogenous sources like hormone replacement therapy and other supplements that boost the male sex hormone. Remember, testosterone is quickly converted to DHT the older you get, and it can accelerate androgenetic alopecia if you aren’t cautious.

As far as natural oils and ointments go, there’s no harm in trying out Saw Palmetto, Zinc, and Tea Tree oil solutions to help hair remain healthy, though there is not much scientific evidence to back these products up in terms of helping with hair growth. 

 

Treatments That Work

If the natural route is not working out in your favor, it’s worth checking in with a hair restoration specialist and determining a medical path forward.

Topical solutions such as Minoxidil have a great clinical track record and have been proven effective for men under 40 who are first experiencing hair loss. Minoxidil is affordable, accessible, and you’ll know if it’s working in less than 3 months. Plus, it does wonders for women who show signs of hair thinning in middle age.

Finasteride is an oral medication with millions of strong testimonials, and it’s just one pill a day to see some impressive results for hair restoration. Since it acts in DHT molecules, it’s not for the ladies, but men should definitely consider adding it to the regimen after consulting with their doctors.

In terms of surgery, we’re in the golden age for hair restoration procedures.

We touched on FUE earlier on, but there are numerous other non-invasive methods that men have their disposal thanks to modern technology and science.

Scalp MicroPigmentation is a new favorite in the industry and is a great option for men who want to replicate that slick, short-buzzed look.

Medical News Today examined the effectiveness of laser and light therapies, which are also gaining traction in the field, and will likely make major strides in the near future.

Again, there is no one-size-fits-all solution for hair loss, and every man will have a distinct set of needs. That’s why the guidance of an expert physician is so crucial for success.

 

Conclusion

Today we identified the core cause of male balding: androgenetic alopecia. 

This genetic condition is going to happen to the majority of men in their lifetimes, so it really isn’t something to be ashamed of. 

It’s up to you to minimize its impact with good lifestyle choices and an aggressive hair restoration protocol when you see the first signs!

Sources:

https://www.healthline.com/health/male-pattern-baldness#causes

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hair-loss/symptoms-causes/syc-20372926

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

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/68077

 

We love to watch celebs shine in the movies, on stage at concert halls, and in the final quarter of the big game. 

Some of us find their flawless hairlines just as mesmerizing as the performances!

It’s no secret that the biggest celebrities on the planet have been known to get work done in the hair restoration department, so today, we’re indulging in some Hollywood gossip and looking at the 10 best celebrity hair transplants we’ve ever seen.

 

1. Matthew McConaughey

This southern stud was known for his full, masculine mane in his early years, but ran into some thinning around the late 1990s.

He showed classic male pattern balding around this time, and it may have had an impact on his career. McConaughey was not getting the work he deserved in the early 2000s when he was suffering from some pretty serious hairline issues.

It was a tough decade, but as soon as he addressed his hair loss, Matthew made a major comeback. It appears that he had a hair transplant and probably underwent a procedure like Follicular Unit Excision to replenish his locks.

Once his hair was on point again, he began to get major roles again and skyrocketed to the top of the Hollywood scene as a certified icon.

McConaughey credits his assistants with finding the best surgeon and getting top-notch treatment.

 

2. Jude Law

Known for his suave and seductive vibe, Jude Law was a bona fide sex symbol back in the ‘90s with romantic comedy roles and some thrillers. But this actor found himself losing his hair in his early 30s, which is one of the most common ages to start losing hair for men.

Mr. Law was showing major signs of the M-Shaped balding we know from the Norwood Scale, with hair loss occurring symmetrically on both sides of his head.

Similar to McConaughey, Jude had some career struggles at the height of his hair loss struggles but turned things around once he got proper treatment.

It appears that he underwent a hair transplant, but it’s rumored that Law also used topical treatments, likely Minoxidil, to bring his hair back in the game.

Now he’s known as a Sherlock Holms sidekick and a Marvel superstar. Tackling his hair loss was definitely the right move for his self-image and career!

 

3. Jamie Foxx

Rapper, movie star and producer, Jamie Foxx can do it all. This well-rounded celebrity is known for his larger than life persona but had some hair loss problems that held him back.

Portraying hardened criminals and lovable heroes, Foxx has shown his range on screen, as well as on his hairline!

It appears that his forehead shrunk around the mid-2010s, but the more likely scenario is that Jamie opted for a hair restoration treatment like Follicular Unit Transplant.

 

4. John Travolta

The original king of Saturday night, John Travolta has had many ups and downs in his career. His hairline has also had its fair share of ups and downs.

A lot of industry gossipers have speculated on what John has done over the years to keep his hair looking fresh and youthful.

Some suggest that he did a few classic hair transplants, and others argue that they see signs of Scalp MicroPigmentation, a series of tiny “tattoos” that look like short-cut hair.

Travolta’s career has been all over the map recently, but at least his hair looks fantastic.

 

5. Elton John

This British songwriting legend showed signs of serious balding as early as the mid-70s when he was barely into his 30s.

Instead of keeping a hat on for the rest of his life, Sir Elton decided to do something about his hair loss and undergo at least one transplant surgery.

It’s likely that the rocker has had return visits to the clinic since his hairline seems to ebb and flow with the times, but he’s got enough attitude to pull off any look he wants!

 

6. LeBron James

Is he the greatest to ever grace the court? That’s up for debate. But LeBron’s hairline has undoubtedly seen some fluctuation in his nearly 20-year career in the NBA.

It looks like Lebron has had at least one hair transplant surgery in this timeframe, and some say that he also underwent SMP to create a more even hairline, according to Scalp Micro.

There have been some mixed reviews about LeBron’s hair results over the years, but his performance on the court shows that his confidence never takes a hit.

 

7. Tom Hanks

Is there a star more deserving of A-List status than Tom Hanks? He’s been in movies nearly every year since the mid-’80s and represents the wholesome side of old Hollywood.

We praise Tom for his consistency on-screen, but his hair has not shown the same level of rigor over the years. He’s dealt with a receding hairline and bald spots throughout.

While Hanks has not returned to the youthful hairline of yesterday, he has definitely made some strides up top. He’s been said to have had at least one or two surgeries to fix the problems.

 

8. Gordon Ramsey

Hot-tempered and cold-blooded British chef Gordon Ramsey is known for boiling over on the set of competitive kitchen TV shows.

But all that stress has taken a toll on his hairline. He set out to remedy his receding hair around the age of 40 and has made some impressive progress.

According to Ranker, however, he was not happy when word got out about his surgery. He ended up filing a lawsuit against a PR firm that let the news out!

 

9. Sylvester Stallone

When you’re Rocky or Rambo, you’d think that nothing could possibly get in your way. But even the toughest dudes on the planet, like Stallone, have hair loss problems that need addressing.

Well into his 70’s, Stallone has seen it all, and made a point to never go bald again after he had some struggles in the 1990s.

It looks like the Italian Stallion went to the best of the best to get work done because his current hairline looks as full and youthful as it did 40 years ago.

We don’t know the specifics of Stallone’s secret, but it’s clear that he spent some extra time and money to get the job done right. 

 

10. Bono

U2 started as a scrappy pub band back in 1970s Ireland but quickly ascended to rock superstardom thanks to the wailing vocals of lead singer Bono. He was showered with accolades and riches his whole career, but he still hadn’t found what he was looking for in terms of hair restoration treatment.

His receding hairline was covered up by signature hats for years until Bono discovered a method that finally restored his locks to their full glory.

Now, he’s less rock-focused and has his heart set on saving the world through philanthropic pursuits. And he looks great while doing it!

 

Conclusion

You don’t have to be a rich and famous celeb to experience life-changing hair restoration.

Today’s hair transplants are less expensive and more effective than at any time in history, and you can get fantastic results without disrupting the flow of your life.

Whether you have a particular procedure in mind, or just want to explore your options, we suggest you check out the Balding Blog for a ton of great info!

Sources:

https://cosmeticium.com/celebrity-hair-transplant/ https://www.ranker.com/list/celebrities-who-have-had-hair-transplants/josh-heller 

https://scalpmicrousa.com/celebrities-with-hair-transplants/ 

 

We’ve all seen the TV infomercials, the internet ads, and the billboards. Minoxidil, better known by its commercial name Rogaine, is one of the biggest products on the planet.

Over the years, there has been tons of promotion and discussion of the medicine, and it’s an understatement to say that it has seen mixed reviews! Some folks make bold claims that Minoxidil is the life-changing topical treatment that brought back the hair of their youth, while others say it has never done a thing for them.

Ask 10 folks about their experience with the drug, and you’ll get 10 different answers.

It’s time we settle the score about Minoxidil once and for all, and give you the expert analysis about how the drug works and what you can expect.

Let’s get started!

 

Bold Claims on the Bottle

Minoxidil has been the beneficiary of some of the best marketing in the world, and we see it advertised constantly in the form of Rogaine. Now as the industry has expanded to the home delivery services, we see small upstart companies repackaging the drug in a new and fresh way.

Still, the core ingredients remain the same, and so do the intended effects.

Unlike the other big hair restoration drug Finasteride, which is administered orally and targets DHT blockers to provoke growth, Minoxidil is a topical solution known as a vasodilator. This class of drugs aims to solve problems by dilating blood vessels throughout the body, allowing for a greater level of circulation.

While most vasodilator medications are designed to assist the body fight high blood pressure and other heart-related issues, Minoxidil targets the vessels on the scalp with the goal of increasing blood flow and thereby encouraging hair growth.

At this point, you’re probably wondering if a drug meant to fix high blood pressure can accomplish the unrelated goal of hair restoration?

The idea is that, with better circulation in the scalp, hair follicles will be delivered more nutrients and energy through the bloodstream, thereby enlarging their size and lengthening the life cycle.

Since many cases of pattern baldness are characterized by these two factors, it makes sense that the drug will deliver some results, even if it isn’t the cure-all we hope for. Even if you’re skeptical of the outcome, trying Rogaine or a comparable product is considered a pretty low-risk restoration option.

It is easy to obtain, and more affordable than ever before. In many cases, you can even circumvent an in-person doctor visit if you really wanted to, but of course, we highly recommend always consulting a qualified hair restoration professional before getting started on any regimen. 

The administration is also a breeze. It should only take about two minutes a day to measure out your dose and rub the solution to the affected area. Your hair can even be damp from the shower and you can let it all dry out naturally.

Make sure to wash your hands thoroughly after applying, because you don’t want to accidentally rub the stuff in your eyes or mouth. 

 

Realistic Timeline for Results

When researching Minoxidil, every patient inevitably asks some variation on the same question: how fast does this stuff work?

Battling hair loss can feel like a race against time, and we understand the desire for fast results, but the truth is that this topical medication is not going to turn things around overnight. The number we hear most often in the industry is approximately 4 months before patients will determine whether Minoxidil is effective for them. While, there is no guarantee that those results will come, but you should try it on for at least 4 months before tossing out the bottle. It’s also worth noting that most patients who experience good results are still usually under 40 years old. 

Just be aware that if you are satisfied with the results you’re getting, you will need to continue using the product indefinitely. Otherwise, hair loss may resume in less than a month after discontinued use. 

The End of Thinning?

With so much focus on trends in male pattern baldness and procedures like follicular unit excision, female hair thinning can be overlooked in the industry. 

The truth is that hair thinning is a problem for many middle-aged women, and they are just as eager to seek real solutions as the men out there.

While ladies may not experience the same degree of severe patchiness and the “horseshoe” look we see on guys, women tend to notice thinner, weaker strands of hair over time.

Minoxidil is often thought to be the most effective medication to thicken and strengthen women’s hair, as the vasodilation effect appears to work better in this environment. 

Women need less than half the dosage of Minoxidil to get a better general result overall, while men need a 5% minoxidil formula to max out their results, women can get by with 2%.

Doctors have also found that women see slightly quicker regrowth in hair than men, and that it takes longer to return to their previous state when coming off the medication. This just goes to show that the drug is ideal to combat thinning and less likely to fix androgenic bald spots. 

 

Safety and Satisfaction

Unlike Finasteride, which has been known to have some unpleasant side effects, Minoxidil is perceived to be a very safe topical medication. Adverse reactions to the solution are rare, but that occasional inflammation on the administered area is a possibility. 

While some folks want to try this medication as a one-off attempt at curbing hair loss at home, remember that Minoxidil is often used in conjunction with other treatments. That’s why it’s vitally important to always introduce new meds under the supervision of your physician, ideally a professional who specializes in hair restoration.

With guidance from the pros, you can get the truth about the optimal plan of attack for restoring your hair, instead of aimlessly browsing the internet for products based on random reviews. 

The best doctors in the world will give you a personalized consultation, map out their blueprint for maximizing growth, then walk you through exactly what each step is meant to accomplish. This extra clarity and confidence can help you navigate the confusing world of hair restoration much more effectively, and outcomes will likely be better as a result.

 

Conclusion

You’ve heard it before, and we’ll reiterate the truth again: Minoxidil is not the magic hair-growth-in-a-bottle solution that you think.

Tons of marketing and messaging over the years has led us to believe it can reverse hair loss for anyone and everyone, but the reality is not so cut and dry.

Minoxidil works best on a small segment of the hair loss population, and if you fit in that category, you can see some impressive results if you stick with it. But for the majority of males experiencing those classic symptoms of receding hairline and patchiness, there may be better solutions out there.

Nevertheless, Minoxidil is safe, simple to use, and virtually side-effect free, so you aren’t risking much by purchasing a bottle and trying it out for at least a few months. 

A big part of the hair restoration journey is simply trying out different things, and this medication is a low-risk investment with a decent possible upside.

For more awesome insights and developments from the hair loss industry, make sure you tune in to our blog and get signed up for the email newsletter today!

 

Sources:

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

https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-3503/minoxidil-topical/details 

https://www.everydayhealth.com/hair-loss/minoxidil-for-hair-loss-in-women.aspx#:~:text=Minoxidil%20is%20the%20only%20drug,can%20use%20the%205%25%20formula.&text=In%20most%20women%2C%20minoxidil%20slows%20down%20or%20stops%20hair%20loss.