How Does Men's Hair Restoration Work?
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Minoxidil
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Minoxidil is an FDA-approved substance that comes in a solution or a foam. It is applied to the scalp in areas where hair is either thin or already gone, and it does one of two things. It stimulates hair growth, or it slows, and in some cases stops, existing hair from falling out. One of the most common products that it is used in is Rogaine, and there are formulations for both men and women. There are some considerations with this product though. First, it can take a few months before it starts working. Second, once you stop using it, your hair loss will start right back up again.
Pills
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Propecia is another FDA-approved formulation for hair restoration. It has an active ingredient in it called finasteride, which was originally used to treat the prostate. Propecia is a pill that helps block the body's production of DHT, or dehydrotestosterone, the hormone responsible for hair loss. You may not see any results from Propecia for 3 to 6 months, and just like minoxidil, once you stop taking it, your hair loss will start right back up again.
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Transplants
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There is also a popular surgical procedure that is performed for hair restoration. It is called hair transplanting. In this procedure, hairs from the sides and the back of the head are uprooted and implanted into areas that are bald. These are called grafts. The process is time-consuming, and it can take two or more treatments before it is completely done. Once the hairs are implanted, it can take up to 6 months before any growth is noticed.
Weaves
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Hair weaves are a type of hair restoration that does not involve surgery. In this procedure, a hairpiece that is made out of either synthetic or human hair is placed on top of the head. It is then woven into the hair on the sides and back. It gives the appearance of regular hair, and it can be washed, styled and combed as well. Maintenance is the key with weaves. The existing hair still grows, causing the weave to loosen up over time. So you need to go the the restoration center every 4 weeks or so to get your weave reworked.
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Resources
- Photo Credit K/Rail
