Can a man’s hair grow back?

If you’re concerned your hairline is receding, your hair is thinning, or the back is balding, you’re not alone. Hair loss is a common condition that affects most men throughout their lives, it can start as early as 21 and will remain continuous if left untreated. You may be wondering whether your hair can grow back, and the answer is yes! These days it’s possible to arrest further hair loss, or even achieve regrowth. You can also surgically replace lost hair with FUE or FUT surgery – this solution is permanent, completely undetectable, and grows naturally. The earlier you begin hair loss treatments, the higher your chances are of having the appearance of a full head of hair by stopping further loss and implanting new follicles in areas where loss has occurred.

Causes

What causes hair loss in Males?

Hair loss is caused by the gradual miniaturisation of the hair follicles, this happens to individuals sensitive to the hormone Dihydrotestosterone (DHT). This is an inherited condition that’s triggered by the genes you get from your parents. Sensitivity to DHT causes the follicles to shrink and can start with thinning in the temples and hairline region or begin from the crown. This is described in more detail by the International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery:

“The causes of hair loss vary depending on a number of factors, including genetics (this is often the main cause of baldness), illness (such as thyroid disease), and medications you may be taking. The best way to uncover hair loss causes and find out whether they are preventable for you is to see a doctor or hair surgeon. What causes hair loss in men is also related to lifestyle. Factors such as stress, exposure to chemicals or UV rays, smoking and consuming alcohol can play a role in triggering or exacerbating the loss of hair (and can also affect recovery from hair restoration surgery)” – The International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery

Actual Patient – Medication only. This shows regrowth is possible, as is prevention of further loss. The addition of hair transplant surgery could further improve his appearance

Treatments

What are the available treatments for male hair Loss?

The good news is there are treatments available to stop further hair loss, and potentially cause more regrowth. In addition to medication-based treatments, you can also surgically add more hair to lost areas. It’s advisable to stop the onset of further loss if you plan to have a hair transplant. For further information on the various treatments you can seek for hair loss, see below:

Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE) – FUE is the newest hair transplant technique. Single follicular units are removed one at a time from the donor area and relocated. FUE does not involve making a linear incision and will leave tiny scars that are invisible, even if you want to shave your scalp

Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT) – Commonly referred to as the ‘strip method’, FUT involves clusters of hair or follicular units being removed from the back of the scalp and relocated. This is best for those with fine to average hair density. FUT isn’t the best choice if you want to shave the back of your hair as it can leave fine scars.  

Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) – PRP injections can strengthen, thicken, and improve the health of your hair. They’re also very popular after a hair transplant procedure to help the health of the new hair roots and encourage thicker strands. These treatments are ideal if you don’t want to take medication to save your existing hair as they are chemical free.  

Low-level laser therapy – Laser therapies are used to augment the subdermal circulation and provide a better environment for hair growth.  

Minoxidil Tablets –Minoxidil is a Vaso-dilator and has the effect of being a hair growth promoter, especially on the scalp. The aim of this medication is to prevent hair loss and make some of the miniaturised hairs thicker by promoting blood supply to the root system.  

Finasteride and Propecia – These medications lower the amount of DHT in your body, this hormone can cause miniaturisation and hair fall.  

Natural Supplementation – There are natural supplements that are considered DHT blockers such as Saw Palmetto, Zinc, and Green Tea. These supplements aren’t as effective as medication, but they work well with medication and can have some benefits if taken alone.  

Scalp Micro pigmentation SMP – SMP involves implanting natural organic ink pigments just below the surface of the scalp. This is a good option if you’re concerned about thinning hair but aren’t ready for a hair transplant, or you’re not a suitable candidate. SMP requires no maintenance and minimises the appearance of hair loss.  

Actual patient – Before and after SMP

Next Steps 

If you’re experiencing unwanted hair loss, you’re not alone and there are treatments available to you. At MediHair, we know which hair loss products and treatments can help you achieve healthier looking hair and improve your appearance. If your goal is to maximise your hair retention and density, then contact us today for a free consultation that will include hair treatment recommendations.