Methods of Hair Replacement
Hair replacement is a major concern for both men and women experiencing thinning hair. Hair loss is most often the result of heredity. The trait can be inherited from either parent. Once the only option was a cheesy toupee for balding. Fortunately those days are gone. There are several methods available for replacing lost hair.
Various Hair Replacement Methods
There are three basic methods of combating thinning hair. Some people have good results with medications or topical solutions, such as Rogaine. Others prefer a method such as hair transplantation surgery.
Medications, such as Propecia, work by reducing the levels of a male hormone called DHT. Some people use this in combination with Minoxidil for better results. It will take about three months to see results after you start taking the medication. You need to take this medicine continually. If you stop taking it, the hair will gradually fall out.
Rogaine is a topical solution that is commonly used by both men and women loosing hair. The main ingredient is Minoxidil. Like Propecia, Rogaine must be used every day for lasting results. You apply the solution to your dry scalp twice each day. To get the best results, leave it in for at least four hours. Don't use Minoxidil if you have any type of heart condition. It can cause the blood pressure to drop and is considered dangerous for people with heart problems.
The old stand by the hair piece is still around. They have improved dramatically over the years and most people can't tell a really good one apart from natural hair. Newer hairstyles help give them a more natural look. You can have just about any hairstyle.
Hair Replacement Surgery
Hair restoration surgery is becoming an increasingly popular option for restoring hair. Surgical techniques have increased dramatically in recent years. The old hair plug look is long gone. Doctors are now able to transplant single hairs or groups of up to four. A micrograft is two or three follicles transplanted together. A mini graft is four follicles. These are generally used farther back from the hairline. Single follicles are used at the hairline for gradual thickening. This has resulted in a much more natural look. The result can be undetectable.
The most important step is to find a good physician. Surgery can be done by a dermatologist, plastic surgeon or any other specialty. Look for a physician with training and experience. Question them at the consultation about training received and experience. Ask how long they have been performing restoration surgery and how many they do in a month. The more procedures, the more experience the doctor is likely to have. Above all, you must feel comfortable.
The procedure is done in several sessions, depending on the size of the area. You will be evaluated at the consultation and should have an idea of how many sessions will be needed. Follicles are transplanted from donor areas of the scalp to the hairline. Before the procedure, you will be given a shot of anesthesia in the scalp and will feel no pain. You can listen to music or watch a movie.
You should plan to take it easy for a few days after the procedure. If possible, take off from work. Avoid strenuous activity. You will be given instructions after the procedure. You can usually wash your hair after about 24 hours. The transplanted hairs will fall out shortly after the surgery and grow back in a few months.