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Many people who think of “hair loss” typically conjure an image of the dreaded “horseshoe” pattern of genetic balding that many men develop. However, while balding is typically seen as a male affliction, it also affects an estimated 30 million women in the United States alone and may also be caused by a variety of non-genetic factors.

There are many types of hair loss; the most common of which in both men and women is androgenic alopecia.  This progressive balding condition is a result of genetics and the hormone DHT (dihydrotestosterone) which binds with the receptor sites of vulnerable hair follicles causing them to miniaturize and fall out over time. Currently, the most effective medical hair loss treatment for men with genetic balding is a combination of Propecia (finasteride) and Rogaine (minoxidil). Propecia has been shown to slow the conversion of testosterone to DHT and can be helpful in slowing, stopping or in some cases, reversing hair loss when it is used early enough. The mechanisms behind Rogaine’s effect on hair loss are not fully understood but it is thought to increase blood supply to the hair follicles through dilation of the blood vessels. It is important to note that Propecia is not approved for use by females and should not be taken or even handled by women of child-bearing age.   For those who can’t or don’t want to use Propecia, there are credible alternative treatments for hair loss worth exploring.   You are encouraged to visit our online discounted hair loss product shop for a list of products we recommend.

This question comes from a member of our Hair Restoration Social Community and Discussion Forums:

I’m in my early 20′s and suffering from advanced, progressive hair loss. I’m wondering, should I investigate a hair replacement system (hairpiece) or try something else first?

For many hair loss sufferers, a hair replacement system is a viable option. However, before committing to any sort of hair system or hair replacement program, it’s important to understand that wearing one of these devices is not a simple task, and patients often end up abandoning hairpieces in search for more permanent, natural solutions. Before progressing, definitely make sure you’ve researched the issue and are prepared to commit to a hair replacement system.

Furthermore, there are many other effective, proven hair restoration options available (many of which are even more attractive because of your age). First, I highly recommend investigating preventive medications like Rogaine (minoxidil) and Propecia (finasteride). Utilizing these therapies now should stabilize and potentially reverse some of the hair loss, and also open the door to additional options in the future. Finally, after using these medications for some time and maintaining your current level of native hair, surgical hair restoration with a talented hair transplant surgeon is always a possibility.

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Blake – 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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We’ve just released episode 2 of our comical cartoon series the Follicular Follies of Balding Bob and Fleckie the Follicle. Watch this hilarious episode to see at what great lengths Bob will go to restore the appearance of a full head of hair. View it now by visiting the “Follicular Follies of Balding Bob and Fleckie the Follicle” home page.

Episode 2 Link and Video

Episode 2: Bio-Fusion Confusion (i.e. Bob gets a rug)

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Video Description

In attempt to conceal his hair loss, Bob visits a whacky hair restoration physician attempting to sell him his revolutionary “Bio-Fusion Matrix”.   Watch Fleckie’s reaction as the “Toop Goop” is applied to Bob’s scalp screaming “It’s a Rug you Fool!” while  a crazy “laser guided” multi-armed machine plants the glorified  hair system / hairpiece  firmly onto Bob’s scalp! You don’t want to miss this hilarious episode!

Bill Seemiller – Managing Publisher of the Hair Transplant Network, the Hair Loss Learning Center, the Hair Loss Q&A Blog, and the Hair Restoration Forum and Social Community

Get Proven Hair Loss Treatments at the Best Prices by visiting our new Online Hair Loss Product Store

Technorati Tags: Follicular Follies of Balding Bob and Fleckie the Follicle, hair restoration, hair system, hairpiece

Recently, we’ve put together and presented a hilarious hair loss cartoon featuring the lovable characters Balding Bob and Fleckie the Follicle. Click here to view the first episode of “The Follicular Follies of Balding Bob and Fleckie the Follicle“.

Also, view the first episode “The Bald Lie” on YouTube below. Be sure to turn your speakers up and listen to the comical background music that fits perfectly with the episode.

Description of Episode 1: The Bald Lie:

Watch the lovable characters Balding Bob and Fleckie the Follicle’s first attempt at online dating. Bob’s new online girlfriend uncovers his best kept secret when she asks that he removes his baseball cap. Other than Fleckie, the one last remaining hair at Bob’s hairline, he’s practically bald. View this hilarious episode to see how Bob and Fleckie react and stay tuned for the next episode as Bob attempts to conceal his hair loss with the “Bio Fusion Matrix” hair system.

Bill Seemiller – Managing Publisher of the Hair Transplant Network, the Hair Loss Learning Center, the Hair Loss Q&A Blog, and the Hair Restoration Forum and Social Community

Get Proven Hair Loss Treatments at the Best Prices by visiting our new Online Hair Loss Product Store

Technorati Tags: hair loss, Balding Bob, Fleckie the Follicle, Bald, bald, hair system

Many men and women with extensive hair loss turn to non-surgical hair replacement because there is nothing like it to restore the appearance of a full head of hair. These hair coverings can come in the form of alopecia wigs, hairpieces, or single strand hair replacement. Much like driving a new car out of a showroom, non-surgical hair replacement pieces or strands of hair are oftren new, flashy, and exciting.

Quality hair replacement systems are made of human hair or new synthetic fiber much like natural hair in appearance and texture. Their construction is refined, light in weight and is an instant solution for those who want to conceal their baldness immediately.

But while hair replacement may seem like the best known “cure” for female or male pattern baldness today, like keeping a new car in mint condition, they usually require a lot of maintenance and can be quite costly. Non-surgical hair strands and hair systems are not a permanent solution and require maintenance and eventual replacement.

Bill Seemiller
Managing Publisher/Editor

Technorati Tags: hair loss, hair coverings, alopecia wigs, hairpieces, hair replacement, baldness, male pattern baldness, hair systems

Though some simply accept baldness as a part of life, hair loss can often be the cause of depression and high levels of anxiety for thousands of men and women worldwide. In fact, some are so ashamed of their baldness; they’ll withdraw from formal social situations where hats and other head coverings are considered inappropriate attire.

Vulnerable men and women should heed caution watching slick late night infomercials that would have you believe their product is the miracle hair regrowth cure. And though no cure exists to stop the progression of female or male pattern baldness or regrow hair, several viable treatment options are available today worth considering.

Non-surgical hair loss treatments such as Propecia (finasteride) and Rogaine (minoxidil) can be quite good at slowing down or stopping the progression of male pattern baldness. Since both treatments work differently, they are said to have a symbiotic and synergistic effect in treating alopecia. Commitment to these medications however, is the key to success.

Men and women with mild to moderate thinning hair have the greatest chance to keep it. Therefore, catching and treating hair loss early might prevent the need for more extreme treatments. Only surgical hair restoration is proven to grow hair in completely bald areas.

Some men and women also opt to use hair replacement systems also known as pieces or alopecia wigs. Some systems are actually quite natural and can portray the illusion of a full head of hair. But don’t be confused by fancy promotional catchphrases. “Non-surgical” hair replacement is still referring to a wig or a temporary head of hair.

It can be hard looking in the mirror and realizing for the first time, that you are going bald. And while some just accept hair loss as a part of life, it can often be the source of anxiety and depression in both men and women. Thankfully with today’s evolved hair loss treatment methods, going bald isn’t the only choice.

Discovering what’s causing you to lose your hair is the first step to working out an appropriate treatment plan. Though the most common cause of hair loss is genetic, there are many other causes worth evaluating. Consulting with a qualified hair restoration physician can help you understand your balding condition and treat it.

Today, Propecia and Rogaine, two FDA approved hair loss treatments can help slow down or stop the progression of male pattern baldness. Other treatments like low level laser therapy and a multitude of alternative treatments may be effective, but are controversial and some lack the compelling evidence that Propecia and Rogaine have. Unfortunately for those who’ve already experienced extensive hair loss, even the proven non-surgical treatments can’t bring back hair once it’s gone.

Today’s hair replacement systems and strand techniques give severely balding men and women an instant solution to their hair loss problem. Ongoing cost and maintenance is typically the biggest concern for those who are considering this solution.

Does a partial hair system blend well with a  hair transplant?   Is it undetectable?

This hair loss question was answered by  Dr. William Lindsey  of Reston, VA who is one of our recommended hair restoration physicians.

This type of approach is reasonable for select hair loss  patients. First, I have worked with several guys who were able to have a hair restoration procedure, slightly modify the way they wore or styled their hair system, and “pull off” the surgery without their friends/customers knowing. Then in a few months they can modify the system again to show the hair transplant result, and consider moving forward with a second procedure much later.

I posted a fellow on this hair loss forum  a few months  ago  who had a limited donor hair supply, such as a hair plugs repair case.    We could really improve the front, but this patient does not have sufficient resources to cover the top and balding crown. For a patient like this, a combination of hair restoration  surgery to give a natural hairline, and hair system to cover the top; works extremely well.

William Lindsey, M.D.

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Bill
Associate Publisher/Editor

Technorati Tags: hair system, hair transplant, hair loss, hair restoration, donor hair, hair plugs, balding

I have very find hair and although I am told by hair stylists that I have a lot of it, it appears very thin on top.   I don’t think hair transplant surgery is the right procedure for me.   Do you know of any hair loss treatment that will give me more hair to cover the wide part of my scalp showing through the hair?   I have tried Rogaine which worked temporarily despite continued use.   I spent a lot of money on a hair piece alopecia wig that is not comfortable and I believe looks obvious.   It is very difficult to hide the wide part with anything and I do not like the short and spiky hair with bands that are the mainstay of hair pieces.   I hope you can help and please be specific if you have any hair loss solutions.

You have mentioned a number of possibilities already however, there are a few more.   Sadly, none of them are miracle cures or perfect solutions, but are worth considering.

Non-Surgical Hair Loss Treatments

Propecia for men only (finasteride) and Rogaine (minoxidil) are FDA approved hair growth drugs and when used together, they may boost your chances of hair regrowth.  

Ketoconazole hair loss shampoo such as Nizoral and Revita may  be helpful adjunct treatments given the “weak” DHT blocking properties of ketoconazole.  

Laser hair treatment has been FDA “cleared” however, in my opinion, not enough evidence publicly exists for me to recommend it.