It’s estimated that over 50 million Americans are losing their hair. Are you in the club? If so, thinning hair is absolutely nothing to be embarrassed about. Losing your luscious locks doesn't have to suck. Until there’s a cure, you can get by and improve your good looks with some nourishing shampoo and the right haircut. We asked Grooming Lounge Master Barber and Director of Education, Ann Shim all those questions you're afraid to ask about maximizing the hair you have on your head.
What are the most common mistakes balding guys make when styling their hair?
The most common mistake men make is wearing their hair way too long, which only accentuates the thinning. When your hair is obviously thinning or balding, the shorter you go, the better. Short hair maximizes the fullness on top.
Do thickening shampoos and conditioners really work? Which ones would you recommend?
Thickening shampoos and conditioners do not grow new hair, but they will leave the hair you already have in better condition. Look for a professional shampoo or conditioner that contains Biotin. Grooming Lounge The Best Shampoo or Nioxin Scalp Therapy System #1, or anything with a DHT blocker will promote a healthy scalp and full head of hair. A DHT blocker is important because too much DHT (dihydrotestosterone) restricts the blood supply to the hair follicles and keeps them from growing hair.
When it comes to hair styling products like clays, creams and pomades is there one that works best for thinning hair?
It all depends on the texture of your hair. Use a lighter product and use it sparingly so that it doesn’t weigh down your fine hair. And stay away from shinier stylers. Applying too much product to the thinning area will only separate the fine strands and expose the scalp, making baldness even more noticeable.
Which haircuts make the most of thinning hair? Is the buzz cut the only option?
Buzz cuts are good because they are short. But buzzing isn’t the only option. There are other shorter haircut styles that can work as well. Avoid blocked necklines that only accentuate thinning. The soft lines of a low taper fade are best.
What are your thoughts on hair regrowth systems? Are they worth trying? And when you should you start using them?
Products like Minoxidil are okay. They work. Typically you use them twice a day directly on the thinning area, and it takes 6 to 8 months to see results. But they do not grow all of your original hair back.
Propecia is a medicine that needs to be prescribed by a doctor and has a higher success rate than Minoxidil. But it comes with some serious side effects to consider before using.
Hair transplant surgery done by a reputable doctor is the best way to go. But it can be very expensive. It works best for guys that have just started to thin and aren’t already bald on top. Deciding to have the procedure done when balding first begins will keep it looking natural and less obvious. No one will even know.