Hair Transplantation: Can Your Hair Pass?

Sonja St. Claire

hair transplantation

Getting a hair restoration surgery is not only a matter of covering barren areas on the scalp with bald-resistant hairs. It is especially about getting the perfect framing and/or looking best with the newly-transplanted hairs. Not everyone however is qualified for a hair surgery. Individuals who do not qualify would most probably have unsuitable hair characteristics.

Each patient is evaluated during consultation and the hair characteristics are one of the major aspects which the physician would first look at.

Hair Color in Contrast to Skin Color

Color contrast between the skin and hair is one the major aspects to consider in achieving a desirable aesthetic outcome. The principle is that a lower contrast makes it easier for the physician to conduct the surgery. Therefore, the ideal candidates for grafting are patients with almost the same hair and skin color. Those with low-contrast colors will have fewer aesthetic problems, and which also contribute to the appearance of a good hair density.

The opposite goes for patients with high-contrast colors (i.e. light skin and dark hair). They would most likely suffer from a tufty appearance despite the use of minigrafts. But a natural, dense-appearing hairline can still be achieved although it will typically take more than three grafting sessions.

Hair Density

Hair density in the donor area determines how much hair will be available for transfer to the recipient area. Higher hair density means better supply of hair follicles for transfer compared to lower hair density. However, with high-contrast hair/skin color, higher hair density may most likely be unable to fully create a natural-looking result. Through the exclusive use of very small minigrafts, or even micrografts, patients with high hair density but with high-contrast hair/skin color can have a lesser risk of tufting within the recipient region.

Curl

The hair curl is an essential factor in coverage. If the hair is very curly, it provides best coverage because of the meshwork that it creates so that the light cannot penetrate to the scalp.

Calibre/Shaft Thickness

The hair calibre determines what physicians call the ‘hair mass’ which refers to the total effect of length times calibre. Those with thicker-calibre follicles may appear to have 50 - 100% more hair than those with thin, straight hair. Usually, it is only the light reflected throughout the scalp that makes the hair appear thin.

Hair Loss in Women: Are You One of Us?

Sonja St. Claire

hair restoration

From the great empires of the ancient society to the modern technological world, hair has been a key feature of the female beauty.

Indeed, hair is often viewed as a womans crowning glory. With that, hair loss can cause considerable concern for women suffering from this condition. Though hair loss is a very common issue, still it is feared by many because of its negative connotation.

There are various causes of hair loss in women. This range from hormonal imbalance during pregnancy or menopause, stress at work or at home, malnutrition, unhealthy lifestyle like smoking and excessive drinking to ageing, infections, medications and so on.

With its myriad causes, the best way to verify which type of hair loss in woman is experiencing is through a personal consultation with a medical practitioner. After the diagnosis, a determination will then be made regarding the best course of treatment. Whether this will be a medicated treatment using natural supplements, oral or topical hair loss solutions or a matter of hair restoration through hair transplant surgery and laser hair therapy, a woman can have lots of options.

Women who want a non-invasive approach to stop hair loss make use of natural alternatives like aromatherapy, vitamin supplements and scalp massage to end their balding condition. However, others who prefer more advanced options go for hair restoration through laser hair therapy and hair transplantation.

The former is a modern method that makes use of Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) or cold laser technology to stop hair loss and stimulate hair regrowth. On the other hand, the latter is a procedure wherein hair grafts are surgically removed in a certain area of the scalp and is relocated to a balding or thinning area.

Today, hair restoration through hair transplantation is gaining popularity among women suffering from hair loss because even though this is costly and at times risky, still it gives phenomenal results. Hair transplantation for women tends to be more complex compared to that of their male counterparts. Since the pattern of hair loss in women often occurs ‘all over’ rather than in patches, the surgical hair restoration becomes intricate.

For a woman to be a good candidate for hair transplant surgery, the type of hair loss has to be one or more of very specific conditions, such as androgenic alopecia, scarring alopecia and traction alopecia.

In the end, it is important to note that when it comes to hair loss, there is no magic pill that will guarantee 100% satisfying results in a short period. It takes effort, time and ample amount of patience before you can see good hair results.

Always bear in mind that dealing with your own female thinning hair problem is a matter of personal choice. You might decide to do nothing about it or be motivated to seriously consider hair restoration options being presented in this article.

Scalp Massage: Experience a Health and Beauty Treat

Sonja St. Claire

relaxing massage

Massaging any part of the body improves blood flow. This is especially applicable with scalp massage, because it doesn’t just benefit the scalp itself, but also the hair follicles along with your hair. This improved circulation can stimulate the follicles in such a way that hair will grow faster, which is a great benefit for those experiencing thinning hair or hair loss.

 

Massaging olive oil on the scalp can be valuable for faster hair regrowth. This oil is rich in vitamin E and B (niacin and biotin). Vitamin E in olive oil improves scalp circulation, which in turn promotes hair regrowth. Niacin improves scalp circulation which stimulates hair regrowth, and biotin is an anti-aging agent which prevents greying of hair and hair loss.

Scalp massage is often accompanied by special oils that are applied to the scalp and hair to provide increased nourishment and work with the hair’s natural oils to repair dryness and breakage. This is great for those who suffer from chronic flaking and itching caused by a dry scalp. The special scalp oils may also be scented with either a relaxing mix of aromatic herbs or something more stimulating for those looking for an energy boost.

Many hair spas and salons provide scalp massage as part of their hair treatment services. It’s recommended that anyone seeking scalp massage to improve issues with hair do so at least once a week for optimum results. This allows the practitioner to gently spread the natural hair massage oils to the scalp and hair, thereby improving shine and strength. Scalp massage also protects the hair from damage and split ends by keeping a nice coat of protective oil on the hair shaft at all times.

Much tension in the body finds its way to the head and neck, so scalp massage is also beneficial as a stress reducer. A gentle scalp massage with warm oil loosens tension and relieves tight muscles in the temples and neck which could lead to tension headaches.

When Hair Transplants Are Not Viable

Sonja St. Claire

hair loss remedy

It may be very unfortunate for a young man to lose his hair. Aside from the possibility that he will not be able to fully enjoy his young life, he may also have to let go of the idea of getting a hair surgery. Physicians would most probably recommend against a surgery to men below the age of 21. One of the major reasons is that the pattern is not yet fully predictable at this stage. Should a surgery take place, there is also a possibility that physicians will have a hard time correcting mistakes during successive surgeries.

While waiting for the time when a surgery is already advisable, there are a variety of methods which a young man can use for strategic cosmetic improvement.

Medical Treatments

There are two synthetic drugs which the Food and Drug Administration approved for treating male pattern hair loss. These are finasteride and minoxidil.

Finasteride is a type of DHT blocker. DHT blockers work on the main cause of the condition which is DHT, or dihydrotestosterone. The main problem about DHT is that it attaches with the androgen receptors in the hair follicles by which blood circulation is disrupted. Finasteride blocks the production of DHT by preventing the action of 5-alpha reductase, the enzyme responsible for the conversion of testosterone into DHT.

Minoxidil is a form of growth stimulator. Poor circulation results from the formation of DHT in the hair follicles which is why the follicles eventually reduce to incapacity. Minoxidil is a vasodilator and for this property, it is indicated to treat poor circulation to the follicles.

Experts often recommend the combination of DHT blockers and growth stimulators for their synergistic effect. Professional advice is still recommended when using the method.

Low Level Laser Treatment

This therapy refers to the application of low level laser which is known to restore hair at a cellular level. Its effects are said to be photochemical in a way it increases chemical energy to improve cellular performance. In this manner, the damaged hair follicles become rejuvenated and able to grow hair again. This therapy involves no drugs and is non-invasive. No side effects have been documented from its application.

Hair Replacement Systems

Non-surgical hair replacement systems can temporarily provide an acceptable appearance. It is in fact the most practical hair loss treatment while waiting for the time when the stage of hair loss is already ideal to receive surgical attention.

But then again, heres the catch. Hair replacement systems will not treat hair loss in anyway. In fact, it may only accelerate the process because it contributes to the production of sebum which is known to clog the hair follicles, thus causing them to reduce in size.

Medical treatments, laser hair restoration therapy, and hair systems are actually the most common methods to cope with hair loss. With correct usage and enough patience, these methods should be able to keep you busy with your hair loss while waiting for the perfect time to avail of a transplant.

Potential Benefits of Platelet-Rich Plasma in Hair Restoration

Sonja St. Claire

Platelet Rich Plasma

If you are planning on undergoing hair transplant surgery, then you must have come across the term PRP being linked with hair transplantation in your many searches in the World Wide Web.

 

Before we tackle more about how PRP is associated with hair transplant surgery, we need to understand and know what this term means.

What is PRP?

Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) is a concentrated blood plasma which contains a greater amount of platelets, approximately five times superior than a normal circulating blood. It also contains the growth factors PDGF (platelet-derived growth factor), VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor) and other bioactive proteins that help in wound healing.

What are the uses of PRP?

PRP was developed in the 1970s but has only recently gained popularity in the medical field. Today, it has been widely used and studied for surgical operations. Some uses of PRP in medicine include accelerating the healing process of tendon injuries, treating osteoarthritis, reconstructing jaws in dentistry, and treating cardiovascular ailments.

The concentrated form of plasma has been shown to accelerate the bodys ability to heal wounds and repair tissue; thus, this could potentially benefit hair restoration procedures. It is believed that by increasing the platelet count in a wounded area, the bodys healing process would also be accelerated.

How is PRP used in hair transplantation?

In hair transplant surgery, PRP is injected into the recipient and donor sites to aid in the healing process of the transplanted hair grafts and the donor incisions.

The possible uses of PRP in hair transplantation and hair growth are centered in three ways:

  • Encourages and enhances tissue repair and wound healing after hair transplantation;
  • Preserves and improves the hair follicles viability during and after the hair transplant procedure; and
  • Reinvigorates the dormant hair follicles and stimulates new hair growth.

Bottom Line

While there is much hype as to the benefits of using PRP in hair transplantation and its uses in the medical treatment of hair loss; today, there is little scientific proofs to support these hypotheses. However, PRP is viewed by hair experts as an exciting new application in the field of hair restoration, and they believe in its potentials to become the next big discovery in the hair transplant field.

The Hair: Life and Death

Sonja St. Claire

hair growth cycle

The hair follicle is one of the few organs in our body that go through a series of degeneration and regeneration at any one time. It is a small tube-like structure beneath the scalp that bears the root of the hair. Hair follicles are distributed almost everywhere in the body to serve only one purpose produce hair. As to why these hair follicles are capable of cyclical development and retrogression is something that still mystifies biological science.

The Hair Growth Cycle

Anagen
The hair follicle produces/reproduces hair through the rapidly dividing stem cells at the root during the anagen phase that typically lasts for about two to three years at any one time. These rapidly proliferating cells above and around the dermal papilla of the follicle are thrust upward by the sebaceous glands and muscle fiber to make the hair shaft. Hair cells in the scalp divide at a much faster rate than any other hair cell in the body. Approximately 85 per cent of the scalp hair is growing. Each month, scalp hair grows for about one (1) centimeter; and it grows fastest from age 15 to 30.

Catagen
Following the anagen phase is the slow degradation of the hair which is marked by the cessation of the keratin and melanin production (keratin and melanin provide the hair with elasticity and color, respectively) together with a reconstruction of the extracellular matrix. Lastly, the hair follicle is also starting to reduce in size since the dermal papilla, the follicles source of nutrients, is slowly splitting up with the follicle. This results in the formation of club hairs. The catagen phase only involves 1% of the scalp and runs for about 3 weeks.

Telogen
This is the last stage of the normal hair growth cycle. The telogen phase is degradation at its full course. The hair follicles that started shrinking during the catagen phase are now half their former sizes. Unless the hair re-enters the anagen phase, the dermal cells and keratinocytes will not regenerate. As a result, the hair will eventually break off from the hair follicle. This phase usually lasts for about 2 to 3 months at any one time and about 5%10% of the hair is in the telogen phase.

Hair loss during the telogen phase is considered normal. Every day a person can lose 50100 hair shafts in whatever manner such as pulling, combing, or such other force.

How to Deal with Your Newly Transplanted Hair

Sonja St. Claire

hair transplant

A hair transplant is a complex and delicate surgical procedure. It is customized and unique according to the patients needs and desires. It must take into account the patients general health, degree of hair loss, hair type, as well as overall expectations.

 

The goal of this procedure is to recover the lost look by regrowing hair at scalp areas where hair loss has occurred, but not total and complete hair regrowth. Considerably, the outcome of hair transplantation presents a natural-looking and functional scalp which significantly improves your self-esteem and confidence.

After the procedure, a hair care regimen needs to be followed which will guarantee the long-term success of the hair transplant. Along with the medication prescribed by the surgeon, he also gives health teachings and stresses the relevance of compliance to treatment regimen to ascertain that the procedure remains a successful one.

Usually, the transplant is noticeable around a week to ten days after the procedure. Most patients prefer to wear a hat or simply cover the site with their existing hair. Two days following the procedure, patients may resume their usual activities but with some restrictions in smoking, drinking, and certain exercises. Shampooing is required after a hair transplant to keep the area clean, to prevent the area from getting infected, and also to make sure the scars heal quickly.

While shampooing, care should be taken not to scrub the scalp hard and the shampoo should be rinsed with gentle pouring of water rather than washing under the shower. Most surgeons advise certain topical ointments.

The hair transplant areas will have scars which need to heal; therefore, utmost care should be taken so as not to harm the grafts and cause permanent damage to the follicle. New hair growth is expected 23 months after. Hair is fully grown in about a year.

Why People Undergo Hair Restoration Surgeries

Sonja St. Claire

scalp surgery

People think that a hair restoration surgery is only the rich mans option. This is because it remains, to date, a sophisticated and the fastest fix to hair loss. So besides being risky and invasive, it is not as viable as it sounds for people who dont earn much. For this reason, getting a hair surgery displays an exaggerated sense of self-importance. Even the act of treating hair loss itself is considered vain.

It would not be easy to understand people who choose to have it. Our individual perceptions regarding vanity interfere. How do we exactly instinctively react when we learn that a friend or a neighbor just underwent a hair restoration surgery? It wouldnt be entirely positive, admit it or not. But we must understand as well that no one understands the importance of the hair better than hair loss sufferers themselves.

Taking all social constructions and cost factors into consideration, consenting to a hair transplant couldnt have been easy at all for them.

A hair restoration surgery is more of a cosmetic procedure than a medical procedure. Millions of people undergo cosmetic procedures because they want to stay beautiful and acceptable for themselves and for others. There sure are a lot of people who want their acnes or wrinkles removed, their breasts augmented, or their teeth fixed. Indeed, just like any of these procedures, a hair restoration surgery is not just about fixing a physical ‘flaw’ but rather a boost of ones self-confidence and self-respect.

The emotional and psychological impacts are the hardest to deal with when one suffers from hair loss. When it begins to manifest, it would definitely leave a person shocked, confused, annoyed, and depressed. Being considered as a cosmetic deficit, it can take away a pleasant appearance. What will happen to his professional goals which will most probably be affected by stereotypes that come with a balding head? It would be such a chore to maintain a relationship, or better yet find a potential mate lest he should be rejected for the lack of appeal. An instant solution will be his only saving grace.

Again, physical appearance influences a persons self-confidence and self-respect. Therefore, it should not attract so much surprise when a person chooses to be self-caring because it only means he/she has the desire to live well.

Vitamin B Complex: Essentials for Hair Loss Prevention and Hair Growth

Sonja St. Claire

vitamin B complex for hair growth

Nutrition plays a chief role in promoting healthy hair growth, thus making this a prime defense against baldness. Nowadays, most people forget to consume sufficient nutritious foods that contain essential nutrients such as protein, vitamins and minerals that are all important to produce a stronger, thicker, and fuller head of hair.

 

Most hair care specialists and nutritionists suggest to their patients to include eating good foods with ample amounts of vitamins and minerals for the healthy growth of the hair. Vitamins and minerals accelerate the rate of growth of the body cells. Hence, these are required for optimum development of the hair follicles.

A healthy diet supplemented with vitamin B complex is the magic key for healthier hair. Indeed, B vitamin complex is the most potent vitamin that aids in promoting healthy hair regrowth. It helps in the function of hemoglobin which carries oxygen to the scalp. In addition, it makes the hair follicles healthier so hair would not easily fall off. More than that, these vitamins help promote overall health of the body.

B vitamins in combination with other minerals are clinically proven to halt hair thinning and prevent further hair loss. The following comprise the vitamin B family, which are essential to stimulate hair regrowth and stop hair loss from worsening.

Vitamin B3 known as niacin, this promotes blood circulation in the scalp, hence nourishing the hair follicles for optimum hair development. Foods that contain niacin are wheat germ, brewers yeast and meat.

Vitamin B5 known as panthenol or pantothenic acid, this helps support the production of red blood cells; aids in metabolism; helps resist allergies; and releases energy from fats, proteins and carbohydrates. As reported by HairMatters, panthenol can improve damaged hair by improving hair elasticity, moisture retention and flexibility. Foods rich in vitamin B5 are kidney, liver, whole grains, egg yolk, potatoes and milk.

Vitamin B6 includes the vitamers pyridoxine, pyridoxal, and pyridoxamine, vitamin B6 helps boost the nervous and immune systems. This vitamin is essential for the metabolism of the red blood cells. Pyridoxine helps keeps the hair keratin intact. In addition, this vitamin helps maintain the melanin level and stops the greying of hair. Foods that are high sources of this vitamin are fish, chicken, eggs, carrots, banana, avocado, brown rice and whole grains.

Vitamin B7 known as biotin, this is proven to be an effective aid in promoting hair growth. It can also prevent the onset of grey hair and deficiency of this vitamin might lead to hair dryness. Good sources of biotin are tomatoes, lettuces, and carrots, almonds and chicken.

Vitamin B12 known as cobalamin, its key role is to keep the normal function of the brain and nervous system. Vitamin B12 helps in the formation of red blood cells, bone marrows and has a significant function in DNA synthesis. It also helps stop hair loss and promote hair regrowth. Excellent sources of this vitamin include snapper, calf’s liver and dairy products.

Vitamin Bx known as para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA), this helps in the reduction of grey hairs. It also improves the quality and quantity of the hair. PABA is found in liver, brewer’s yeast, kidney, whole grains, mushrooms, molasses and spinach.

Factors to Consider before Undergoing Hair Restoration Surgery

Sonja St. Claire

Hair Restoration Surgery

A surgical hair restoration is probably the only way to instantly bring your hair back. But before you should go for a surgery, you need to be able to meet the criteria and understand the factors or risks involved before, during, and after surgery. These pertinent areas of consideration should be discussed with a physician during consultation. Below are some of the most important aspects to think through.

 

Age

Those who are genetically predisposed to it may begin experiencing it as early as the age of 21. But because hair loss has a progressive nature, at an early stage, it may be difficult to predict how the condition will turn out: how much there is to lose or in what pattern it will make. This is why younger balding men are not really an ideal candidate for a surgical hair restoration. It may also be difficult to make corrections in the future should any mistakes occur should he insist on the surgery.

Current Hair Loss Pattern

The hair density of the donor site is one of the most important aspects to look at when considering a hair transplant. Aside from that, there is a need to determine the scope of the balding area to be covered.

Family History

The history of hair loss in the family can serve as a reference in predicting the possible pattern, type, or extent of hair loss the patient may experience.

Hair Characteristics

The hair characteristics specifically the hair caliber, hair color, skin color, and hair type are all important to take into account because they all impact the aesthetic result. The contrast between the hair color and skin color can determine how well the transplanted hair can cover the balding area. The closer the colors are, the better the coverage. In terms of hair caliber, the thicker the hair strands, the better they will give coverage as well. The hair type also matters in a way that it can provide light blockage and coverage.

Physical and Psychological Health

A patient should be fit for the surgery. While it is considered a minor procedure, hair transplantation is still a medical procedure. A physical examination is always performed before undertaking the surgery.

Psychological health matters as well but is rarely taken into account unless the cause of the condition itself is psychologically connected (i.e. trichotillomania). In this case, hair transplantation is not at all appropriate.

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