What are Non-Surgical Treatments?
Dr. Ted believes in treatments that work. Hair loss is like a leaky bucket. Over time, you lose more hair. Whilst a transplant can top up your bucket, it does nothing about the leak. Medication seeks to put a bung in the leak and slow down hair loss. At best, it can prevent it and thicken up thinning hair. Medication is an important part of the long-term management of hair loss in any patient. Two licensed medications in the UK are oral finasteride and topical minoxidil. Both are safe and effective. Finasteride works by blocking one subtype of the 5-alpha reductase enzyme that converts testosterone to DHT. Minoxidil can be thought of as a general hair thickener which works by improving blood flow and increasing the amount of time each hair spends in the growth phase of the hair cycle.
Dutasteride works by blocking both subtypes of the 5-alpha reductase enzyme, so it is a more potent DHT blocker in most people than finasteride. Around 80% of patients don’t use topical minoxidil beyond the first year because it is a hassle to use and can give the hair a wet look, which makes it look even thinner. For these reasons, Dr. Ted has collaborated with a compounding pharmacy called Roseway Labs to produce “Co-dutamox” – a combination of Dutasteride 0.5mg with oral minoxidil 2.5mg as a single daily capsule which combine both medications. The dose can be tailored to the individual.
Frequently Asked Questions About Non-Surgical Treatments
Non-surgical hair treatments include options such as laser therapy, PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) therapy, topical medications like minoxidil, scalp micropigmentation, and hair loss shampoos and supplements.
Suitable candidates for a beard transplant include individuals with patchy or thin beard growth, beard scarring, or those looking to enhance their beard density. It’s essential to have a stable donor area with sufficient hair follicles for transplantation.
Laser therapy stimulates hair follicles, promoting hair growth and increasing hair density. It’s a non-invasive treatment that can be performed in-office or with at-home devices.
PRP therapy involves extracting platelet-rich plasma from the patient’s blood and injecting it into the scalp. This stimulates hair follicles, promotes hair growth, and improves hair thickness and texture.
Minoxidil is a topical medication applied directly to the scalp, known to increase blood flow to hair follicles, prolonging the growth phase of the hair cycle and promoting hair regrowth in some individuals.
Scalp micropigmentation is a non-surgical procedure that involves tattooing tiny pigment deposits onto the scalp to mimic the appearance of hair follicles, creating the illusion of fuller hair density.
Non-surgical hair treatments can be suitable for individuals experiencing various types of hair loss, but effectiveness may vary depending on the underlying cause and individual factors. Consultation with a hair restoration specialist is recommended to determine suitability.
Results from non-surgical hair treatments vary depending on the treatment method, individual response, and severity of hair loss. Some treatments may require multiple sessions before noticeable improvement occurs.
Non-surgical hair treatments can effectively manage hair loss and promote hair growth, but they may require ongoing maintenance to sustain results. Consultation with a specialist can provide personalized recommendations for long-term management.
The cost of non-surgical hair treatments varies depending on the type of treatment, the number of sessions required, and the provider’s expertise. It’s best to consult with a hair restoration specialist to discuss treatment options and associated costs.
Non-surgical hair treatments are generally safe when performed by qualified professionals. However, as with any medical procedure, there may be potential risks and side effects. It’s essential to discuss potential concerns with your provider before undergoing treatment.
Yes, non-surgical hair treatments can often be combined to enhance effectiveness and achieve optimal results. A comprehensive treatment plan tailored to individual needs may include a combination of therapies for maximum benefit.
Choosing the right non-surgical hair treatment depends on factors such as the cause and severity of hair loss, personal preferences, budget, and lifestyle. Consulting with a hair restoration specialist can help determine the most suitable treatment plan for your specific needs.
Yes, non-surgical hair treatments can be beneficial for both men and women experiencing hair loss or thinning. Treatment plans can be customized based on individual factors and goals.
In general, non-surgical hair treatments have minimal to no downtime, allowing individuals to resume their normal activities immediately after treatment. However, some treatments may cause mild redness or irritation temporarily.
