Treatments for male pattern baldness

Male pattern baldness is the most common form of hair loss to develop in most men at some stage - some men can start to experience hair thinning at just 21 years old, by aged 50 85% of men will have some form of hair loss. Today there are many treatments available, some surgical, some over the counter, and some so technically advanced they are considered a real game-changer when it comes to male pattern baldness. Below we look into the different solutions, their pros and cons, and what the experts are saying for each. 

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Treatments and Information

Micro-pigmentation

Scalp micro-pigmentation is basically a permanent, cosmetic makeup. An aesthetic treatment that is considered innovative and contemporary. It works by a series of small pigmented dots being implanted under the outer barrier of the scalp, which are administered by a machine and small needle - much like a tattoo gun, but designed specifically for the head. The end result is a look of a close shaved buzz-cut.

Pros

• Natural look
• Isn’t affected by water - rain, showering, swimming
• It is absolutely safe 
• Instant result

Cons

• It’s one style always - the buzz cut
• Regular shaving is required
• Pigmentation will fade and need to be topped up
• It won’t age with you - it isn’t a lifetime solution

Hair Transplant

A hair transplant involves the relocating of hair-bearing follicles from another area on the body, or from a donor, to the scalp. It can be incredibly effective, with natural results the treatment can also be used on other areas of the body like eyelashes, eyebrows, and the chest area, 

Pros

• Natural results - is natural hair and looks so 
• Simple procedure - often done under a local anesthetic 
• Lasts a lifetime - once the initial treatment is done, no top-ups are required

Cons 

• High cost - in the UK it can cost up to £30,000
• Recovery - which can include pain, bruising or significant swelling
• Scarring - although often hidden by the hair, they can be visible on many occasions

Hair Thickening Spray

Hair thickening sprays work by sticking to existing hairs on the head. Some products add an extra layer to the hair by adhering to the outer layer of the hair shaft, to produce a thicker look. Other products are formulated to lift the outer layer to achieve hair thickening. Both kinds of products are a cost-effective, instant solution to hair loss but don’t suit everyone and a person must have realistic expectations. 

Pros

• Instant result 
• Low cost 
• Easily accessible 

Cons 

• Can cause irritation - burning, stinging, and redness to the scalp
• Can lead to further hair loss - by constantly suffocating the hair follicles 
• It only lasts until you wash your hair

Hair System 

Hair systems are an increasingly common choice for people, over hair transplant surgery. They’re handcrafted to match the density, colour and hair loss pattern of the individual to result in undetectable, natural-looking hair without any of the risks that come with surgery. 

Pros

• It’s non-surgical
• Guaranteed results - a full head of hair can be instantaneous 
• It’s completely reversible - If you change your mind, job, career or style, you’re not stuck with your hair as you would be had you had surgery. The hair system can be simply removed and replaced to your liking. 
• There are no limits - whatever the cause of hair loss, whether it be chemotherapy, heredity factors, a medical condition or severe burns, a hair system can work for anyone and include any colour, style, texture or length. 

Cons

• Styling - you will have to style your hair system as you would your own hair (unless you go to a reputable hair system fitter and provider like ourselves)
• High cost - they can be a costly investment.
• Take getting used to - if you’ve gone from baldness to a full head of hair it can take time to get used to it. 

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