The number of African American men and women going to hair transplant clinics to seek treatment for their hair loss problems has increased over the years. It may be attributed in part to the fact that many Black people braid and weave their hair or apply harsh chemicals that can cause irreparable damage to the hair and scalp. Additionally, it could also be blamed on poor diet, heredity, and medications. Doctors say that there isn’t much of a difference in how hair transplants are performed in African-Americans, Caucasians, Asians, and other ethnic groups. However, it has been found that since African Americans have curly or semi-curly dark hair, the transplantation results would give the effect of having more hair density, as compared to other races.
A Quick Overview on Black Hair Transplant
African Americans who are suffering from excessive hair loss or are experiencing premature balding can opt for a hair transplant. The procedure is generally the same as those conducted on Caucasians though a slightly modified technique is needed. The procedure begins by taking a bunch of hair from the donor site, or the area that has thick hair, and then place them onto the recipient site, or the balding and thinning areas. The success in Black hair transplant is generally the same as the transplantation procedures done on Caucasians however it is very important to find a skilled doctor to ensure that the outcome will be good.
Challenges Doctors Encounter with Black Hair Transplant
Just like any other hair transplant procedure, there are also challenges that doctors have to deal with when performing a black hair transplant. Among these are:
- The grafts are curly so technicians will find it quite tedious to cut and “plant” the grafts.
- Hair transplants for women are more difficult than for men because hair loss is diffused in women. Men, on the other hand, have specific patterns of hair loss.
- African Americans are prone to scarring and keloids so there is a high possibility that they will develop these after surgery.
- There is a likelihood of skin discoloration, especially if there’s a family history of post-operative skin discoloration.
- Patients with a history of in-grown hairs could develop them after the surgery.
Alternatives to Black Hair Transplant
Due to the high cost of a Black hair transplant, many people are opting for other means to address their hair loss problem. Many African Americans look to natural treatments while others go for wigs or a change of hairstyle to cover their bald spots. Here are some of the most popular alternatives to hair transplant:
- Cosmetic Tattooing: This non-surgical treatment is done by tattooing some areas that have hair loss problems. Usually, the cosmetic tattooing hair simulation is done on the scalp as well as on the eyebrows to give the appearance of having “more” hair.
- Minoxidil: This topical solution is designed to help those suffering from male pattern baldness and alopecia. It is usually applied for 8 to 12 weeks before there is any significant result.
- Hot Oil: There isn’t much information on the efficacy of this hair loss treatment but many people opt for it since it’s a good way to keep the hair conditioned and moisturized. Usually, hot oil treatments are given 2 to 3 times a week for at least 4 weeks.