PrintHair Loss Treatment
Cosmetic options
A wide range of thickening shampoos and conditioners is available to minimise the effects of thinning hair. Coloured sprays and powders are sometimes used to minimise the contrast between the scalp and the hair. These are likely to be most effective during the earlier stages of hair loss. Adopting a new shorter hairstyle can also be helpful and close-cropped styles are now highly fashionable. Many barbers and hairdressers are skilled in advising on the most appropriate cut to disguise or complement a receding hairline.
Some men prefer to opt for wigs and toupées. In the past, these were often very obvious and so were frequently joked about, but modern versions are usually far more realistic. The degree of quality varies, as does the cost. For example, synthetic wigs, usually made from acrylic, can be purchased 'off the peg' from retail outlets or mail order suppliers. They are relatively cheap and easy to maintain but they need to be replaced on a regular basis. Real hair wigs are made to measure by specialist companies and are usually created from human hair. They can be costly and require regular cleaning and maintenance, but they usually offer a more realistic effect and are longer lasting. Your barber or hairdresser may be able to suggest a good supplier for wigs or toupées.
A number of non-surgical hair replacement techniques are available. Hair weaving involves gluing or plaiting acrylic or real hair onto existing hairs. With hair bonding, a plastic skull cap covered with hair is placed on the scalp and existing hair is pulled through and attached. The procedure known as liquid hair involves attaching replacement hair to a thin transparent mesh and securing this on the scalp with a layer of silicone. Non-surgical replacement techniques usually need to be repeated on a regular basis and can be time-consuming and expensive.
Provided as a service to patients by Merck Sharp & Dohme Limited