Hair loss is a common problem nowadays. Many people believe that they will experience in this condition only in their older days, but it is not so. One can come across this condition at any stage of one’s life. However, pattern hair loss is seen commonly in men under the age of 21 years. No wonder, for teenagers and men under 30, this is rather shocking development. The surprising fact is that hair loss is continuous- it never ends until you get a treatment. And also, it shows an adverse impact in the case of men than women. Women experience scarring of hair only, while men get bald.
Must Read: Quick Hair Loss FAQ
Typically, the first signs of hair loss are seen around the frontal hairline, with thinning of hair above the eyebrows, known as the temporal area. With hair thinning, one may witness excessive shedding while brushing or washing the hair. With gradual and constant hair loss, the forehead may appear to be larger.
Pattern hair loss can be genetic, and inevitably, one may start seeing the signs at an early, which is certainly not appreciable. For younger men below the age of 21, this can be a serious concern, as the hair loss pattern may be same as those in his family, which may cause additional stress and worries around his appearance.
Dealing With Hair Loss At An Early Age – Things to do
Hair loss is a serious problem, but a man witnessing symptoms should try to address the concern at the earliest. The first step is to take an appointment with a known hair specialist should be a dermatologist with recognized credentials which ensures that he is experienced and skilled at his job.
A specialized hair restoration expert knows the worries of men below 21, and therefore, he would offer him help and guidance, without pushing him for any procedure. He would also explain that male pattern hair loss is common and often inherited, and therefore, there is nothing to be bothered about. The hair doctor must also insist on having a guardian or parent around, especially for minors, as this would offer ample support for the patient and reduces concerns of legal issues.
Young men with hair loss problems should know that trusted and professional hair restoration experts do not suggest or recommend treatments unless the cause of the issue has been established. Although male pattern hair loss is a general problem, the expert should ensure that there are no other underlying issues.
What Are The Likely Recommendations Of Hair Restoration For Hair Loss?
Generally, a hair restoration expert would talk with the patient in detail, about the cause and progression of the hair loss issue, along with the options available. Given that hair transplantation is pretty common and successful, a patient might be tempted to jump in the procedure. However, a number of known hair transplantation experts don’t consider this to be an option for young men below 21 years of age. A lot of different individual patient characteristics are considered before any recommendation is made.
Here are some reasons why hair transplantation might not be recommended.
- The cause, progression and pattern of hair loss has not been revealed at a tender age
- The results obtained from hair transplantation might not be as successful at an early age, as compared to later stages when hair loss is more visible and obvious.
- The surgical procedure for the patient might be hard to decide, keeping long term considerations in mind.
- Future surgeries might be more than essential after hair transplantation has been initiated.
- Surgical corrections may be more than essential for early hair transplantation
- A minor and his parents may have issues taking informed decisions.
Other facts that matter
Eventually, a patient may be advised to go for hair transplantation depending on many factors. However, for young men below 21, the hair restoration expert may suggest non-surgical treatment, which includes finasteride (Propecia®) and minoxidil (Rogaine®) and other treatment like PRP, LLT. These two medications have been approved by FDI for successful treatment of hair loss and reducing the graduation loss pattern. Using the medications under the expertise of a surgeon may ensure the success of hair transplantation later.
In some selected cases, an expert hair surgeon may suggest a special kind of transplant, known as the “forelock” transplant, just to offer some improvement in the look and appearance of the frontal hairline. In general, aggressive treatment is avoided with patients below 21 years,
Instead of looking for a miraculous cure for hair loss as shown in the media, it is always a great idea to talk to a popular and experienced hair restoration specialist in advance. Professional advice can go a long way in getting better results both in the present and in the future.