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If only you hadn’t worn a baseball cap to school every day your senior year, perhaps you’d still be sporting that luxurious mane that had all the cheerleaders doing backflips, right? Wrong! Wearing hats does not cause balding. This is only one of the many hair loss myths that continue to perpetuate themselves even in our era of scientific enlightenment. Let’s take a look at some other popular hair loss myths:

• Hair loss is inherited from mom’s side of the family: Stop blaming mom! In fact, go buy her some flowers for the years of guilt she has endured. The balding gene can be inherited from either parent and can even skip a generation.

• Masturbation causes hair loss: Not so. While this may indicate the need for a new hobby, rest assured that masturbation or sexual activity in general does not cause balding.

• Hair length affects balding: Some men believe that wearing their hair longer will stop hair loss while others believe that shaving the head is the key to thicker regrowth. Neither of these theories is correct. The visible hair exiting the scalp is dead tissue composed of keratin. Cutting the hair shaft or allowing it to grow has absolutely no effect on the growth cycle.

• Blow drying/over-styling causes balding: Excessive blow drying and use of styling products can result in dry, damaged hair. However, it should not result in permanent hair loss in an otherwise healthy individual not prone to genetic balding.

Throughout history, men and women have been searching for the secret to curing hair loss. In fact, the ancient Greek physician Hippocrates (The father of modern medicine) was not unlike modern day hair loss sufferers attempting to reverse their balding. Among other “treatments” to curb hair loss, Hippocrates devised an ancient hair loss remedy that included a mixture of horseradish, cumin, pigeon droppings, and nettles to be applied to the scalp. As you may have guessed, this and hundreds of other wacky treatments have proven to be ineffective in combating thinning hair. The good news for the men and women of the 21^st century is that real options, both surgical and non-surgical now exist.

Despite the number of proven treatments today, many men and women are convinced that the real “cure” already exists and is known only to a select few individuals including the rich and the famous. Unfortunately, these hair loss sufferers quite often find themselves parting with hundreds or thousands of dollars as they gobble up every whimsical lotion, tonic, pill or device being hawked on late-night TV or in the back of magazines. So how do you know what works and what doesn’t in the world of hair restoration?

Although the topic of green tea as a hair loss remedy is a popular subject, few discussions focus on the tea as a topical therapy. Because of this, many wonder if applying green tea to the scalp can help slow or reverse androgenetic alopecia or male pattern baldness. According to a study conducted at the Seoul University National Hospital, a key ingredient in green tea may have some validity as a topical hair loss treatment.

The study focuses on epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), a compound found in green tea, and its effect on dermal papilla cells and hair growth cycles. After removing and treating a section of follicular units from research subjects, the scientific team found that the EGCG stimulates hair growth by forcing hair follicles to remain in the expansion, or Anagen phase, and by increasing the active stage of dermal papilla cells (which are robust and lively during the follicular growth phase). However, despite the fact that these results seem promising, there are several issues to consider before concluding that topical green tea can help battle balding.

This question comes from a series of general concerns on the Hair Restoration Discussion Forums:

Does Propecia (finasteride) decrease levels of testosterone in the body (or blood) ?

Although issues involving Propecia (finasteride) and testosterone are popular topics in general, one subject seemingly appears more frequently than others – does Propecia lower testosterone levels? Because of the way Propecia works inside the body, it’s not an unreasonable concern. Propecia, and finasteride in general, works by blocking the process that converts testosterone to dihydrotestosterone or DHT (the hormone that directly causes hair loss). Because this pathway seems to interfere or block testosterone, people tend to assume that Propecia actually lowers testosterone levels in the body. However, this is incorrect.

According to Coalition physician Dr. Robert M. Bernstein not only does Propecia not lower testosterone levels in the body, it actually increases them! Dr. Bernstein states that on average patients who take Propecia experience a 9% increase in serum (blood) levels of testosterone, meaning their body levels are generally elevated. Whether this is caused by less testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT) conversion or by some other factor, it is clear that Propecia does not lower the body’s level of testosterone.

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Blake Bloxham – aka Future_HT_Doc

Editorial Assistant and Forum Co-Moderator for the Hair Transplant Network, the Hair Loss Learning Center, the Hair Loss Q&A Blog, and the Hair Restoration Forum

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After various questions on the Hair Restoration Discussion Forums, Spex – a senior member and consultant to Coalition surgeon Dr. Alan Feller, decided to address the issue of seasonal hair shedding or temporary seasonal hair loss:

Shedding is something that guys (and girls) need to be well aware of so that when it occurs (often seasonally), you do not panic and start organizing your next hair transplant surgery in a desperate attempt to regain your lack of “density”.

Shedding unfortunately is part of the hair transplant ”process”. Seasonal shedding along with medication shedding (if you are taking hair loss medications such as Propecia (finasteride) or Rogaine (minoxidil)) happens to all of us. I personally experienced a shed recently which left my hair looking very thin, and even though I knew it was only a shed it still made me anxious and very self-conscious. This feeling happens every time, but I know through experience it occurs because of the periodic “shedding process” and that given time it will slowly but surely come back in. Yes, a waiting game …yet again!

When it does occur just park and ride it out – like in the early days of your hair restoration surgery. Try not to scrutinize by watching the shedding process, applying products, washing your hair, conditioning it, washing it again (etc.)!  Also, remember the time period when you start and stop the shedding process. This way,  the next time it occurs you can limit the anxiety levels associated with seasonal shedding.

This question was asked by a member of the Hair Restoration Social Community and hair loss forum:

For years, I’ve had a beard and experienced male pattern baldness. Recently, I started using Propecia to fight my hair loss, but I’m worried the drug will affect my beard hairs. Will Propecia (finasteride) affect my beard, or is my worrying unfounded?

As you may well know, finasteride (Propecia), works by inhibiting the process where the hormone Testosterone is converted to Dihydrotestosterone (the hormone directly responsible for genetic male baldness). Ironically enough, the hormone responsible for scalp hair loss (Dihydrotestosterone or DHT) also causes increased body hair growth. This means that when DHT is decreased in the body scalp hair loss ceases, but body hair thinning actually increases.

However, the role of DHT and beard hair is not as clear. Most individuals who report body hair thinning on Propecia do not experience beard hair thinning or issues maintaining facial hair. Interestingly enough, a study once found that increased DHT in females caused facial hair growth, but female balding is a more complicated process. Altogether, it is possible that your body hair may thin on Propecia, but unlikely that your beard hair will be affected.

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Blake Bloxham – aka Future_HT_Doc

Editorial Assistant and Forum Co-Moderator for the Hair Transplant Network, the Hair Loss Learning Center, the Hair Loss Q&A Blog, and the Hair Restoration Forum

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This inquiry was asked by a member of our Hair Restoration Social Community and Discussion Forums:

This question has to do with my hair loss, but not loss from my head. I’ve recently noticed that the hair on the outside of my legs, just above my ankles is bald and smooth while the rest of my legs are quite hairy. I researched online, and it seems as if many other individuals suffer from body hair loss. Does anyone know what causes this phenomenon, and if a hair transplant procedure or medications (like finasteride and minoxidil) will restore the hair?

After some investigation, it appears that you’re right and this is a commonly discussed issue. However, finding answers proves a much more difficult task. From my research, it seems as if there are two schools of thought:

1. Body hair loss (such as leg hair loss) is type of genetic condition in men aged 35 years and older. Much like male pattern baldness, body hair loss is highly influenced by your genes and likely carried out by certain hormones.

2. Body hair loss is a type of traction alopecia (hair loss from pulling or tension on the hairs) from wearing tight socks or continually crossing one’s legs in a particular position.

Regardless, it appears as if most experts don’t suggest any oral/topical medications or surgical solutions for the issue, though switching to low-cut socks and refraining from continual leg-crossing may help if the ankle hair loss is caused by traction alopecia.
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Blake Bloxham – aka Future_HT_Doc

This question comes from a member of the Hair Restoration Discussion Forums:

For the past few months, I’ve use Propecia to battle my ongoing hair loss. It’s working well, but I’m considering adding some herbal hair loss medications, particularly He shou wu (Fo-Ti). Does anyone know if these herbal medications negatively interfere with finasteride?

He shou wu, also known as Fo-Ti, is a native Chinese plant used by many for anti-aging purposes. In fact, the Chinese name Fo-Ti translates to “black-haired Mr. He” – an old, Chinese villager who allegedly used the root to change his grey hair black! In modern times, Individuals utilize the herb to prevent pre-mature aging, grey hair, certain sexual dysfunctions, and increase overall vitality and strength.

However, despite centuries of usage, Fo-Ti has only demonstrated a slight ability to lower cholesterol levels and improve immune function. Additionally, no legitimate studies on the effectiveness of Fo-Ti in humans exist, and possible side-effects include diarrhea, limb numbness and, in some severe cases, liver complications.

Frankly, it’s unclear (but unlikely) that He shou wu would interact with your Propecia regimen. However, because of unproven results, untested usage, and potential side-effects, it may not be an effective or recommended therapy in general (especially for hair restoration). Furthermore, proven medications, such as minoxidil (or Rogaine) will most likely produce a much more consistent, safe result and are usually suggested before alternative medications like Fo-Ti. I recommend consulting with one of our recommended hair restoration physicians (to further address any concerns) and consider adding minoxidil to your hair loss regimen.

I’m 25 years old and my doctor recommended Rogaine( minoxidil) for my hair loss but people tell me it doesn’t work. I am also not sure if I’m willing to take Propecia (finasteride) because I’m afraid of the possible side effects such as erectile dysfunction. Should I consider a hair transplant instead?

This hair loss question was answered by Dr. Glenn Charles of Florida who is a member of the Coalition of Independent Hair Restoration Physicians.  His professional answer is below.

You should definitely consider Propecia and or Rogaine to slow down the hair loss. There is even a chance that you could get some improvement without surgical hair restoration. At least give it a try. If you have any side effects then simply discontinue use. The surgical option will still be available.

Doing follicular unit hair transplantation in the crown on a 25 year old patient without even trying some non-surgical hair restoration options would not be very wise.

Dr. Glenn Charles, FL

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David – aka TakingThePlunge
Assistant Publisher and Forum Co-Moderator for the Hair Transplant Network, the Hair Loss Learning Center, the Hair Loss Q&A Blog, and the Hair Restoration Forum
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Technorati Tags: Rogaine, minoxidil, Propecia, finasteride, hair transplant, hair loss, hair restoration, follicular unit hair transplantation

My hair is thinning in the crown and the front. I’m not bald yet but I’m on the way. I’m interested in follicular unit hair transplantation and I’d like to know how much I can expect to pay, what is the risk of infection and how long for recovery?

Those are great questions! The cost of a hair transplant procedure will vary depending on your choice of doctor and how many follicular unit grafts you need. Without seeing photos of your hair loss, it would be impossible for me to speculate on your total cost but you can expect to pay around $4 to $5 USD per graft.

If you are experiencing thinning hair but not yet bald, you may want to explore non-surgical hair loss treatments such as Rogaine (minoxidil) and Propecia (finasteride).

There are many variables that affect hair transplant healing, hair growth and recovery times and these issues can be better addressed by scheduling a free consultation with one of our recommended hair restoration physicians.

I highly recommend that you spend some time on our hair loss forum and social community researching our doctors, looking at before and after hair transplant photos and communicating with patients before making any decisions.

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David – aka TakingThePlunge
Assistant Publisher and Forum Co-Moderator for the Hair Transplant Network, the Hair Loss Learning Center, the Hair Loss Q&A Blog, and the Hair Restoration Forum
Follow our community on Twitter
Watch hair transplant videos on YouTube