With statistics suggesting that up to 50 per cent of all males will experience some form of hair loss throughout their lives, it is not only important to be aware of the issue but also know how to combat it once your scalp begins to show.
Don’t panic…
When you realise you have begun to loose that once luscious head of hair, the last thing your body needs is additional stress. Although stress-related hair loss is more common amongst females and may only be temporary, men can also experience the effects – which is why knowing your hair restoration options is a must.
One of the biggest misconceptions surrounding male pattern baldness is that hair loss is directly shared between father and son. Men can inherit pattern baldness from either parent and may not necessarily be able to identify anyone in their family with a similar condition. Private consultations are the first step in determining the technique most suited to the stage of balding you are currently experiencing.
What is hair restoration?
Put simply, the term ‘hair restoration’ relates to a group of procedures designed to combat balding in both men and women. In recent years the development of several techniques including synthetic hair implantation, hair transplants and non-surgical methods of hair replacement have added to the every growing repertoire of restoration.
Although the only proven technique to permanently replenish male pattern baldness is hair transplant surgery, other techniques have resulted in significant hair growth or slowing of the balding process in many cases.
Synthetic hair implantation
Studies into synthetic hair implants were first conducted in the 1970s and soon led to the implants becoming available to the public in 1975.
There are two types of synthetic implants: one involving surgery and one that doesn’t. When implantation is combined with further transplant surgery, a thicker result can be achieved. However, as with all surgery, recovery time and associated risks must be taken into account. Furthermore, patients should consider that maintenance is usually required after the procedure, which may incur additional costs.
Prescribed medications
Many herbal remedies and medications are available for the treatment of hair loss. Such lotions, drugs and remedies are most effective when used within the first stages of hair loss, having less of an effect when balding has been ignored for an extended period.
