It starts slowly. You notice a few extra hairs falling out in the shower or throughout the course of a routine day. And then, after a while, there are patches on your head with less hair than before. All of a sudden, it hits you: You’re dealing with premature hair loss.
While it can be an alarming realization, losing hair happens to many people throughout life. Some deal with it in their teens or 20s, while others see the effects of hair loss in later years. But regardless of when it happens, hair thinning doesn’t mean all hope is lost. There are many factors — from your mindset to your hair care routine — that can help make it more manageable.
Explore Hair Pieces or Transplants
If you’re not loving the look of less hair, there’s no reason you can’t change it. From getting a prosthetic like a toupee or a wig to getting a hair transplant, your options are vast. You just need to research which one will best fit your lifestyle and budget.
Hair pieces are typically purchased to be worn regularly, so they should be considered an investment. High quality and durability are two of the most important features aside from look and feel. Obviously, you want to get one you feel comfortable in so you’ll get your money’s worth. While you can order online, it can be beneficial to explore your options in store. That way, you can get a feel for what you like and try on a variety of styles.
Maybe you don’t love the idea of a hairpiece, and that’s okay! You could look into transplant options for a more permanent solution. Of course, because of the science and technique required, it’s important to know your budget. Take time to research hair transplant cost factors to better plan financially. This can be helpful as you prepare and ensure you make the right choice on all fronts.
You may find that one of these options works for you, or maybe you wait it out. Who knows, you could fall in love with your thinning or bald hair. Or perhaps, you revisit hair pieces or transplants down the line. Regardless, there’s no harm in exploring your options.
Give Medication a Try
Given that about 80% of balding is genetic, it can be frustrating to find solutions that work. Oftentimes, people turn to supplements to help improve their hair growth and strength. But while increasing your iron, zinc, or biotin intake could help, your genes are still fighting against you. Turning to medicine could be the best next step.
A great place to start can be over-the-counter options beca
use they’re often easily accessible. They can also be a bit cheaper than prescription medication because you won’t need to see a doctor for them. Minoxidil, commonly known as Rogaine, is an effective over-the-counter topical treatment that’s applied to the scalp for hair growth. Results usually take six months or more, so consistency is key.
If you’d rather take a prescription medication, you’ll need to have a consultation for a hair loss diagnosis. This could be in a doctor’s office or online. Medical professionals may require blood tests, questionnaires, and/or other evaluations to ensure that medicine could be helpful. However, if you fit the proper criteria, you could get an oral medication for medication like finasteride or spironolactone. These can work better than topical treatments for some patients. However, many studies show using finasteride and minoxidil in tandem boost hair growth results.
Of course, there are risks and side effects with every medication. So, it’s important to keep an eye on how you feel when starting anything new. If you experience anything abnormal, contact your doctor or seek emergency help.
Learn to Embrace Your New ‘Do
While exploring various options to manage hair loss is important, it’s also crucial to develop a positive mindset and embrace your new appearance. Accepting and adapting to your changing hair can boost your self-confidence and make the transition easier.
Think of it as an opportunity to reinvent yourself and develop your personal style. Experiment with different hairstyles. Work with your hairstylist to find a haircut that suits your current hair density. They can suggest flattering cuts or techniques to create volume or texture, helping you feel more confident about your hair.
Your hair loss could lead you to another option for switching up your look like growing a beard. Facial hair is a great way for men to explore different styles, and it can pair well with bald heads. While you might not feel 100% confident about the top of your head, you can emphasize your better features. This may include your eyes, lips, or facial structure. Take some time to play with makeup, accessories, or stylish clothing. And have fun with it!
When you’re going through a big change, it’s more important to practice self-care. Invest time and effort in taking care of yourself. Pursue activities that bring you joy and boost your self-esteem. Prioritize self-care to enhance your overall well-being.
Continued Growth
There unfortunately isn’t a cure-all for premature baldness. So, it’s often a journey for people to find the solution that works best for them. However, knowing as much as you can and taking the time to research solutions can help. From there, you’ll be able to make the most informed, educated decision possible about how to combat or cherish your changing look.
